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HAVRE DE GRACE, Md. — Staff, local leaders, and family members celebrated 54 teens who finished the rigorous Maryland National Guard Freestate ChalleNGe Academy during the completion ceremony for Class #60 at the Havre de Grace Middle/High School auditorium June 29, 2023.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Foundation. Freestate ChalleNGe Academy, now located on APG South (Edgewood), was one of the 10 original states to begin a ChalleNGe Program.
FCA Director Keith Dickerson said today 39 ChalleNGe Academies exist across 30 states and territories. Freestate ChalleNGe Academy is a tuition-free program that offers at-risk Maryland teens an opportunity to improve their futures. During the 22-week residential program, the cadets learn self-discipline and obtain the skills needed to become responsible, productive citizens in a military-style environment.
Maryland Military Department Chief of Staff Timothy Tharp said one of the most remarkable aspects of Freestate is its ability to instill discipline and value among the participants. The residential phase is not just about academics and skills but also about fostering growth and resilience. They will become the leaders and change-makers of tomorrow.
“We are shaping innovators, leaders who will make positive impact in their communities, or wherever they choose to serve.
The experiences they encountered during the program will help them “become the leaders and change-makers of tomorrow,” he said.
The guest speaker was Dr. Eric Moore, the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command’s deputy to the commanding general. He asked the cadets to turn around and look at their support: staff members, mentors, and family members.
“No one walks on this path of life alone,” he said. “We are made stronger by those who support us in our time of need and encourage us to be better.”
Moore acknowledged that some cadets were probably nervous about the unknown on the program's first day, and some wanted to leave. In addition to preparing to take the GED, cadets also engaged in community service projects and secure meaningful employment.
He challenged them to continue to make choices that would open doors.
“You should be proud of how far you have come,” he said, leading the room in a round of applause.
Moore shared that he grew up in a rough neighborhood and had to make positive choices deliberately. Joining the military, he said, helped change his life for the better. He said he was the first person in his family to serve as a military officer.
“People who are successful, they hang out with successful people,” he said.
The program included a presentation of awards, class speakers, and a presentation of course completion certificates.
After the ceremony, cadets turned in their uniforms, received their GED test results, and greeted their families.
Cadet Wilfredo Canales, 17, gave a loud cheer when he saw he passed all parts of the GED. He said he has many plans, which include earning a bachelor’s degree and joining the Navy.
“It was hard, man, but luckily I had all these amazing teachers and amazing tutors to help me out,” he said. “I am excited, I am shaking right now.”
Jane Harris said she is “very proud” of her grandson Cadet Robert Henry Jr., 16, for persevering and staying in the program.
“It felt good to see him take that extra step,” she said. “Now he is on to the next mile.”
For more photos, visit https://www.flickr.com/photos/usagapg/albums/72177720309939569.
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