On Saturday, October 9, the Palm Beach Council of the Navy League held a luncheon to kick off the start of this new year and celebrate the 246th birthday of the United States Navy.  MSgt Oakley and Mrs. Tori Oakley attended along with Cadet Major Kaylin Tran (Battalion Commanding Officer) and Cadet Sergeant Major Kimona Harvey (Battalion Sergeant Major).  This event was held at the Ballen Isles Country Club in Palm Beach Gardens and was well attended.  The Navy League sponsors many youth groups in the area including three JROTC programs as well as a Sea Cadet and Young Marine program.  Cadets had the opportunity to enjoy a nice meal and meet cadets from some of these other programs.  C/Maj Tran stated, “Out of the events that happened today in the Navy Luncheon, I enjoyed the other cadets from other schools that I was able to talk with and the food. The cadets all have different perspectives on what they have in their program. The food was excellently made and the filet mignon was one of the best meals to eat.”  C/SgtMaj Harvey also echoed the comments when she said, “Evening brunch was a fun experience.  I got to meet with different cadets from different schools, learn about their experiences and how they approach different problems as leaders themselves.”  Overall the cadets enjoyed the experience and had a good time.  

The Navy League has been instrumental in the success of the Palm Beach Lakes MCJROTC as they support the program financially and recognize cadets annually with awards.  They also provide for volunteer opportunities in the community and give the cadets a unique perspective with their knowledge and experience.  This year the guest speaker was Vice Admiral Pandolfe who was about 500 yards away from where the plane hit the Pentagon on September 11, 2001.  Speaking on that experience as well as other Navy experiences gave the cadets exposure to a truly unique perspective.