St. Joseph JROTC Cadets march together during parade

ST. JOSEPH, Mo (KQTV) -- As St. Joseph transitions from three high schools to two, the Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps cadets unite to lead the Apple Blossom Parade.

For the first time, cadets from Central, Lafayette, and Benton High schools marched together in the parade.

The JROTC aimed to highlight unity by marching together, stating that while cooperation among schools is not new, their efforts to be intentional about unity have increased.

"We all still have our school identities," Senior Army Instructor Jason Coad said. "But if you look across the cadets, they're all wearing the same uniform, and that shows unity."

Cadets say marching together has strengthened their sense of unity after years of marching separately, making this parade a significant moment for them.

"This year we've become much more unified than during my four years in the program," Benton High School Cadet Kenna Presto said. "Seeing all three schools work together has been rewarding."

The St. Joseph JROTC has been active since 1919.