The 279th Battalion of the California Cadet Corps held its 7th Annual Banquet and Awards Ceremony at Serrano High School last week, celebrating the service, leadership, and academic accomplishments of its cadets. The evening included formal award presentations, heartfelt tributes, and a traditional change of command that marked a new chapter for the student-led battalion.
The event began with the presentation of colors by the battalion’s color guard, followed by the national anthem performed by Serrano High School’s Diamondback Seniors. Guests then recited the Pledge of Allegiance before Cadet Sgt. 1st Class Mariah Johnson welcomed attendees and introduced the unit’s marching cadets.
More than 50 cadets were recognized throughout the evening with awards for academic achievement, physical fitness, citizenship, and leadership. Cadet Cpl. Mayra Marquez, who managed the battalion’s supply operations, was repeatedly recognized for her determination and professionalism.
“She has picked up her iPad and her clipboard and she’s gone through and done inventories to ensure our records are good,” said Maj. Anthony Bravo, commandant of cadets. “Very proud of you.”
Awards were also presented for perfect attendance, state and school service, and superior scholarship. Cadets who participated in the rifle team were honored for their performance at state matches, where the Serrano team placed fourth among more than 10 schools. Rifle team coach Maj. Peters praised the students for practicing under “very windy” conditions at Camp San Luis Obispo and for their perseverance throughout the season.
“These cadets here practiced hard, learned how to shoot accurately, and worked together as a team,” he said.
As the evening continued, Maj. Bravo highlighted the growth of the cadet leadership staff. He noted that this year’s chain of command was not in place at the start of the school year and had to be rebuilt through a competitive selection process. Cadets were given missions and evaluated on their ability to plan and lead.
“This is a safe place to fail,” Bravo said. “Pick yourself up, look your peers in the eye and say, ‘Okay, I screwed up. Where else do you need me?’”
Cadet Sgt. Maj. Robert Blue and Cadet Sgt. 1st Class Mariah Johnson were among those acknowledged for their leadership under pressure. Johnson, a sophomore, was named the incoming executive officer earlier in the year and officially assumed command as battalion commander during the evening’s closing ceremony.
Special recognition was given to cadets serving in brigade positions across the High Desert region, including those who supported more than 400 cadets through event coordination and leadership roles. Cadet 1st Lt. Aiden Cervantes, who previously served as XO and later transitioned to an administrative role, was commended for his resilience and continuous contributions.
Several graduating seniors received custom-made memory boxes engraved with the 279th Battalion insignia and a challenge coin inside—items meant to serve as keepsakes from their time in the program. Among the seniors was Cadet Cpl. Mayra Marquez, who recently enlisted in the U.S. Army.
“Her job in the military, it’s funny—what she picked is supply,” said Staff Sgt. Zabake of the U.S. Army. “And she’s going to be doing that in the United States Army.”
In addition to academic and military honors, the event also spotlighted the Military Preparation Program (MPP) at Serrano High School. Mr. McHenry, who co-leads the program, explained that MPP began over a decade ago as an informal Military Preparation Club for students interested in military careers.
“We didn’t know what we were doing at first—we just wanted to build something for students who were serious about the military,” he said.
The program gained traction with help from school staff and the arrival of then-Capt. Bravo, whose early training sessions tested students physically and mentally. The club eventually evolved into today’s structured Military Preparation Pathway, designed to push high-performing cadets toward elite readiness, using Army Special Forces entry standards as a benchmark. The California Cadet Corps became a natural complement to this program, offering formal structure, leadership roles, and access to statewide competitions and training.
Founded in 1911, the California Cadet Corps is a youth leadership program sponsored by the California Military Department. Its mission is to develop leadership, citizenship, patriotism, and academic excellence in California’s schools through military-style training and instruction. Cadet battalions like the one at Serrano High School offer opportunities for students to take on command roles, participate in community service, and learn practical skills such as marksmanship, first aid, and team coordination.
Supporters and volunteers were also acknowledged, including booster parents, former cadets, and instructors. Mrs. Smolin, 1st Lt. Reese, Mr. Deep and Mr. Ladd were among those recognized for their ongoing contributions to the cadet experience.
“I cannot do 80% of the crazy things I want to do with our students without our boosters,” Bravo said. “It takes a team effort.”
The evening concluded with the formal Change of Command Ceremony, where Cadet Sgt. Maj. Blue passed the battalion’s guidon to Maj. Bravo, who in turn entrusted it to Cadet Sgt. 1st Class Mariah Johnson, officially naming her the new 279th Battalion commander. Cadet Sgt. 1st Class Coloma was named the new command sergeant major.
“This program is about teams and teamwork,” Bravo said in closing. “Thank you so much for allowing these individuals to come work with me.”
