The New York Military Youth Cadets, Inc. (NYMYC) received a special visit by Command Sergeant Major Michael W. Williams of the U.S. Army Military District of Washington, who addressed the cadets and gave words of encouragement.
The event was held on Friday, March 18, at P.S. 19, located at 98-02 Roosevelt Avenue in Corona, Queens, where Williams advised the cadets on leadership, importance of family values, and scholastic endeavors.
“I have a kinship with these group of cadets, some of them I’ve known for over a year now and I’m overjoyed to talk to their parents, to hear the change in their life and structure and what their doing for their community,” said Williams. “It does my heart good to see them and encourage them to continue that path.”
“It is an honor having him at P.S. 19 because he is a great friend of the NYMYC, he is the one who coordinated our first trip to Washington last year,” said Alirio Orduna, commanding officer and founder of the NYMYC.
The NYMYC is a non-profit multicultural community-based organization which has provided a military based program for youths between the ages of twelve and eighteen years of age to develop self-confidence, discipline, and respect for society.
“I want to help the next generation – I want to teach them how to swim, before they jump in the river,” noted Marine Corp. Sergeant Veteran Orduna.
Also in attendance was U.S. Army Specialist, Nicholas Holt, a tomb sentinel who has guarded the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery.
“I had a great opportunity to meet these cadets when they came down to Washington, D.C.,” said Holt. “I really enjoy this program because you’re able to find the motivation and dedication that some of them don’t know they have and show them how to use it in a positive way.”
According to Orduna, the cadets have engaged in various activities such as camping, military and musical, out of state and overseas trips, parades, veterans outreach, and recognition awards.
“I feel proud for the cadets for having two great leaders of the nation taking the time to visit us,” said Jesus Perez, 15, staff sergeant. “It’s a really big deal for us.”
“It’s been a great experience here,” noted Private Paola Rivera, 14.
The NYMYC has provided assistance to the underprivileged residents of the New York State and Queens area.
“I truly believe this youth cadet group is a part of our American family,” said Williams.
“I think those willing to serve our nation are special by definition, there is no greater thing we can do for our country than serve and for someone to start on that road at such a young age, I owe them everything that I can give to them.”
For more information on the NYMYC visit www.youthcadets.org.
