JROTC Cadets Celebrate Fall, Serve Community at PumpkinFest

S.S. Seward Institute’s Spartan Battalion JROTC cadets got into the fall spirit with community service work at the annual PumpkinFest in Pine Island on Oct. 12.

Hosted by the Pine Island Chamber of Commerce, the event brought residents together for a day of seasonal activities. 

Spartan JROTC cadets supported the festival by assisting with setup, parking, face painting, and event cleanup. 

Cadet Linda Huggins said she enjoyed her experience at PumpkinFest, where she kept the facilities clean and organized and helped children select pumpkins to take home. 

“It was wonderful to be part of such a fun community event filled with exciting activities for everyone,” she said. “I take pride in helping maintain a clean and welcoming environment for the community. I look forward to volunteering again at next year’s PumpkinFest!”

Members of the Battalion’s Robotics Team highlighted the JROTC’s newest STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) initiatives. Cadets worked one-on-one with interested children to show off Clawbot robots and drones, and show the children how the robots are built and programmed. Participants were also invited to fly drones in a controlled space under cadet supervision. 

Cadet Francesco Hardin said he enjoyed working at the event and experiencing it himself “from the delicious food and exciting rides to the live music.”

Hardin said he had a good time and learned more about others and himself at the event. 

“Overall, PumpkinFest was a wonderful opportunity to have fun, connect with the community, and demonstrate the importance of service,” he said. “I would definitely volunteer again next year!”

Cadet Emily Torres called this year’s PumpkinFest “the best I have ever attended” and noted that the event taught her about the importance of community. 

“This experience reminded me that while we are strong as individuals, we are even stronger when we come together,” Torres said. “Seeing so many people come together with a common goal showed me the true meaning of teamwork and community spirit.”

JROTC Senior Army Instructor Michael Washington said he was proud of his cadets for their exceptional service to their community. 

“Through its involvement, the Spartan Battalion demonstrated its commitment to community service, leadership, and STEM education while inspiring local youth to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics,” he said.