ROTC displays patriotism

By Morgan Fischer

Patriotism plays an important role in the experience of Girls State.

“It is important for all Americans to know where our country’s patriotism comes from, and why our country is built on that strong patriotism,” said Jordan Bremer, a 2015 University of South Dakota Graduate.

After being offered a scholarship to attend college and join Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, Bremer attended USD for four years. At first, he wanted to be involved in law enforcement, but later decided to look into attending law school, and double majored in criminal justice and psychology.

Kathy Garaets, South Dakota American Legion Auxiliary sergeant-at-arms, said she believes that patriotism is something that needs to be taught to all young men and women in America.

“It is almost a lost generation now, so I think we need to keep teaching it, and it is great to have the ROTC come to do that… to help the girls spread that into their schools and their communities,” Garaets said.

Garaets said that ROTC is a great program and she encourages girls to look into it if they are interested.

President of Girls State Carol Edwards said she believes it is important to remember that when people are boycotting, disrespecting and walking on the flag, they are not remembering all the soldiers who have fought for that flag.

“They have no idea how many lives were given so they can have the freedom to do that,” she said. “I think it is important for the young people to understand.”

Edwards said it is wonderful that ROTC is willing to take part in Girls State and help the younger generation understand the importance of patriotism in America. She has a son who just completed four and a half years in the Navy and another son who served six years in the National Guard, while her husband served in World War II and her father and two brothers served in Vietnam.

His first year at college, Bremer joined ROTC and soaked up all of the information he could, especially on how he could serve. Throughout the rest of college, he served as a Platoon Leader, a Platoon Sergeant and a Battalion Commander. Bremer has also served outside of South Dakota — during his sophomore year, he traveled to Lithuania to work with the Lithuanian Air Force as an English language instructor. He will soon be going to Oklahoma for training and will take on the role of Field Artillery Officer.

If anyone is interested in learning more about ROTC or about how to join ROTC, Bremer said he would be happy to answer questions.

“It is important to have faith in your country, that it will take care of the people,” Bremer said.  “With times being difficult, some seem to forget that, but it is important to always understand the importance of patriotism.”

(Photo: Jordan Bremer, a 2015 University of South Dakota graduate and ROTC officer, assists Girls State delegates at the flag lowering Tuesday evening. Morgan Fischer / Sacajawea Scroll)