More than 150 JROTC cadets from across Western North Carolina and South Carolina faced their fears and stepped off the edge- literally- during a multi-school rappel training at the Bee Tree Fire Station tower in Swannanoa.
Hosted by Clyde A. Erwin High School’s JROTC program, the event brought together cadets from eight high schools, including Erwin, Owen, A.C. Reynolds, and T.C. Roberson. Each cadet had the opportunity to rappel from the three-story training tower at least twice, gaining hands-on experience in teamwork, safety procedures, and confidence-building.
“Personal Courage means facing fear, danger, and adversity,” said retired Sgt. 1st Class Jamie Brown, JROTC Instructor at Reynolds High. “This activity gives cadets a real opportunity to overcome that fear and accomplish something challenging.”
Cadets said stepping over the edge of the tower was both a physical and mental challenge, requiring trust in their training, equipment, and fellow cadets.
“If you’re afraid of heights, it’s a good way to get over that,” said freshman JROTC cadet Ty’shay. “Once you do it the first time, it gets easier.”
“The hardest part is leaning back into it,” added senior JROTC cadet Jeffery. “But once you do it, the rest is easier and you get a lot of confidence.”
Using a detailed safety system that included harnesses, helmets, carabiners, and belay support from the ground, cadets worked through every step of the rappel process, from gear checks to controlled descent, under the supervision of trained JROTC instructors.
“Cadets rely on each other every step of the way, from checking equipment to serving as belay support,” Brown said. “So it’s also a powerful lesson in trust and teamwork.”
This long-running partnership with the Swannanoa Fire Rescue dates back to 2008 and continues to provide a unique, real-world leadership experience that helps cadets grow both mentally and physically.
