The Northwest Regional Cadet Academy produced 13 new correctional cadets during its graduation ceremony that was held at Northwest Technology Center in Alva on Friday, Sept. 23, at 1 p.m.

The ceremony room was packed with family members and staff from various correctional centers in the area. Thirteen cadets graduated – one going to Bill Johnson Correctional Center, seven to James Crabtree Correctional Center (JCCC), and five to William Key Correctional Center. The cadets who graduated were Jared Minson, Dustin Baker, Alan Burdge, Monica Fleshman, Kathryn Garner, Timothy Gaskill, Alon Jones, Jimi Lindell, Alan Aldrich, Benjamin Batman, Erin Kinney, Joshua McGuire and Jesika Snider.

The cadets marched into the room in military fashion before taking a seat before the podium, waiting to be addressed and receive their certificates. Andrea Jordan, training specialist, introduced guests to the ceremony before introducing Alan Burdge, CSO 1, from James Crabtree Correctional Center, who was chosen by the graduate class to be the Class Speaker and lead the Graduate's Remarks portion of the ceremony.

Burdge thanked many of his classmates for the lessons he learned from them during their six-week training together that would help him while on the job.

The commencement address was given by Jason Bryan, JCCC warden.

"What we do in corrections is absolutely a noble cause," Bryan said.

He emphasized the importance of the correctional system and the large part the correctional officers play in breaking the inmates' cycle of poor behavior, thus keeping them from being repeat offenders.

Bryan also spoke to the cadets about the importance of being themselves and using their own judgment when dealing with situations while on duty, instead of relying on the judgment of their coworkers. He said the inmates would "see right through them" unless they were themselves.

Jordan then presented the recognition awards. Alan Burdge received the Academic Achievement and High Academic awards, and Timothy Gaskill received the Most Improved award. The certificates were then awarded one by one to the cadet graduates.

Lynn L. Martin

Bill Johnson Correctional Center (BJCC) Warden Janice Melton offers a handshake and a certificate of graduation to the newest correctional officer for BJCC, Jared Minson.

Jordan closed the ceremony with the serenity prayer, urging the cadets to think about it when they are in doubt.

"Grant me the knowledge to know the difference between right and wrong ... always question what you're doing and if you're doing it right," Jordan said.

She spoke about the importance of remembering that their co-workers and family are always available for help if needed.