The Rotary Club of Americus is proud to recognize local high school seniors who have chosen to enlist in the United States Armed Forces following graduation. Recognizing that over 70% or our nation’s youth are not eligible for recruitment into the armed forces, Americus Rotary sought to recognize those high school heroes from Sumter County who made the decision to enlist in military service.

In early May, six local seniors were recognized by Rotary and presented duffle bags for their send off. In the pocket was a Four Way Test Coin - included with the hope that each question emblazoned on the coin serves as a guidepost for the six high school heroes: Is it the TRUTH? Is it FAIR to all concerned? Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

“Your commitment to serve on behalf of a grateful nation – a nation that strives for peace and prosperity throughout the world – is an admirable decision worthy of honor and distinction,” remarked Rene Smith, President of the Americus Rotary Club, as he addressed the group gathered on the front steps of Americus Sumter High School. Of the recruitable age range (18 to 28) in the United States today, less than 30% are eligible for military service. This alarming statistic has been called by some to be a national defense crisis. What has made this number so high are young people not meeting the military’s academic, physical, and conduct standards.

“The motto of Rotarians is Service Above Self, reminding each of us to think of how they help others,” said Smith. “With your commitment to enlist in the United States Armed Forces, you have already proven yourselves to be heroes with a heart of service.” Americus Rotary sought to encourage other youth to strive to become the elite of their peers who meet the armed services standards by recognizing those who are raising their right hand to enlist.

2020 Americus Sumter High School Graduates being honored this year are Safaria Carson, US Army, enlisted, Pvt. E-2; Travion Gardner, US Army, Report: June 2020; Devante Green, US Marine Corps, Report: August 2020; Jarvis Hartage, US Army, Report: July 2020; Jada Thomas, US Navy, Report: July 2020; and Kameron Thorton, US Army, Report: June 2020. The Rotary Club of Americus commends the 2020 enlistees and expresses its gratitude for their commitment to our country and to their future by enlisting in the United States Armed Forces and for Guarding America’s Future!

You can see President Rene's presentation at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yjJFXhMnkEU&t=21s