‘It’s all worth it, in the end’ – Cadets Celebrate completion of the Oregon Youth Guard Challenge
Tyson Beauchemin
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The 71st class of the Oregon Youth Guard Challenge graduated today. The formal ceremony took place at the Riverhouse Convention Center in Bend, and marks the completion of an intensive 22-week program.
The program operates as an extension of the National Guard, focusing on regimented behavior and education. It offers youth a second chance, if they’re struggling with school or other problems.
Upon enrolling, students become ‘cadets’. Cadets are rigorously trained and drilled, on top of attending classes. For the duration of the program, they live on site in barracks with other students. The curriculum is designed to foster personal responsibility along side physical improvment
The program is challenging, and not everyone completes it – but the cadets who make it through say it transforms them. Graduation marks the completion of a hard-earned journey, and the beginning of something new.
Gabriel Tacia, a graduating cadet and a team leader, reflected on his journey within the program, “I’ve learned a lot of different things.” said Tacia, “From the beginning, I didn’t take this place seriously and I just wanted to go home. But now, like, I’ve gained a lot of new brothers and friends and I’ve never been as smart, I think.” Tacia went on to thank on of his teachers, Mr Yutes, for telling him to stick with it, when he felt lke quitting
Eli Hess, another cadet, is joining the Army National Guard following his graduation. The program didn’t just change Hess’ path, he says it saved him “If I didn’t go the challenge… (if I didn’t) join the challenge and go to the program… I’d probably be arrested or dead. So it’s a good thing,” Hess said.
Keira Rodriguez, a graduating cadet, encouraged others to focus on the long-term benefits of the program. “Definitely. Just think about the end goal, because it’s all worth it, in the end. Time is going to fly by,” Rodriguez said. Rodriguez said her experience was actual fun, in the end.
Cadets leaving the Oregon Youth Guard Challenge pursue a variety of different directions. Some work to earn a G.E.D. or are planning to attend college. Other graduates return to high school to pick up where they left off. A rare few are so inspired by the program’s discipline and order that they choose to enlist in the armed forces.