John Backo Receives Military Award at Randolph-Macon Academy

2015 May 26

John Ryan Backo, the son of Karen and Jerry Smith of Warrenton, has been recognized for outstanding achievement in the Air Force JROTC (Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps) at Randolph-Macon Academy (R-MA).

John, a Cadet Airman First Class in the Air Force JROTC unit, received the The Sons of Confederate Hunley Award. This award goes to a rising second-year cadet who has demonstrated the qualities of honor, courage and in particular commitment to his unit throughout the school year. These were the same values exhibited by the last crew of the Hunley who courageously made the commitment to honorably risk and ultimately give their lives in defense of their country and the city of Charleston. The award was presented during the Spring Family Day Parade on March 27, 2015.

John is a freshman at Randolph-Macon Academy.

Randolph-Macon Academy (R-MA), founded in 1892, is a college-preparatory, coeducational boarding school for students in grades 6 through 12. Students in grades 9-12 participate in R-MA's 91st Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC), and have the opportunity to learn to fly through a unique flight program. R-MA is affiliated with the United Methodist Church and is located in Front Royal, VA.