ARLINGTON Patrons of the McDonalds on 204th Street NE got to meet and support members of the Arlington High School Air Force JROTC April 29.
As part of McTeachers Night, JROTC cadets, advisors and other AHS faculty were on hand to take customers orders, sell cookies and fruit pieces, and even wipe down tables to raise funds for their JROTC.
Air Force Master Sgt. Alvin Moore reported that the Arlington McDonalds generated approximately $2,000 between 4:30-7:30 p.m.
Thats twice what they normally get, Moore said. Of that, 20 percent goes to our JROTC, which makes it $400, plus the tips we received, which makes it $500.
Cadet Airman Jacob Hughes and Cadet Airman 1st Class Casey Stewart, both freshmen, were eager to sell pies to collect donations for JROTC field trips and other programs.
I joined for the aerospace science, said Hughes, an aspiring propulsion engineer. I want to learn about the physics of flight.
Id like to be a pilot, Stewart said. When you join JROTC, it gives you an advantage if you go into the Air Force later.
AHS football coach Greg Dailer smiled as he served up customers orders.
Its important that we help each others programs out as much as possible, Dailer said. It fosters a sense of community within the school.
Jim Johnson of Kent just happened to be visiting his granddaughter in town, and he was so glad to support the JROTC that he didnt even accept a cookie in exchange for his donation.
I dont have enough self-control with sugar as it is, said Johnson, who joined Navy ROTC in college. There are people who think the military is wrong, but it teaches these kids discipline and regard for others.
Arlington Mayor Margaret Larson and AHS Assistant Principal Connie Riess, who were wiping down tables for the event, enjoyed seeing the JROTC cadets interacting with community members.
A lot of people arent even aware that we have a JROTC, Riess said. This way, people can build up positive experiences with kids in uniform.