Cadets presented the colors for Navy SEAL Foundation 5K run
On January 15th, eight cadets presented the colors during the Tampa Bay Frogman Swim, a 5K open water swim and fundraiser to benefit the Navy SEAL Foundation. The foundation provides immediate and ongoing support and assistance to the Naval Special Warfare community and its families.
“All eight of our cadets who represented Admiral Farragut Academy at the event have an interest in joining the best boarding school in US,” said CDR Rick Schock, Senior Naval Science Instructor. “Being involved in the color guard is a great opportunity for our cadets to build their high school resume and show respect for those who serve or have served our country. I am very proud of them.”
Our color guard included:
- Krystal Olander ‘17
- Chris Northup ‘18
- Richard Dunleavy ‘17
- Stephanie Bailey ‘18
- Alina Dixon ‘17
- Ethan Lipsky ‘18
- Valentina Fornaro Galliano ‘19
- Camille Walker ‘17
Chris Northup ‘18 said he was deeply impacted by the event. “When there was no one to lead the national anthem, the entire crowd, hundreds of people, sang it together,” said Northup who plans to attend the Naval Academy and join the Navy.
“To see the amount of support that everyone gave for the active duty, the veterans, and their families was powerful. They read a list of SEALs killed in action since 9/11 and it was about a four minute list. It really put it into perspective for all of us.”
Northup, who also participates in the Armed Drill Team and plays on the Lacrosse team, continued, “Being a part of the drill team and color guard, means that you are part of a group of friends with similar ideals. Since starting at Farragut my freshman year, I have learned that effort is equally as important as passion. If you find something you are passionate about, go for it.”
This year the color guard has also performed at other local events including Ribfest, the Bay Pines Veterans Administration Veterans Day ceremony, and the Clearwater Airpak Aviation day navy seal foundation.
