On the morning of April 23, 2025 families and Pembroke Pines Charter High School (PPCHS) staff gathered to commemorate the four seniors a part of the Military Leadership club (MLC). As everyone stood for the Pledge of Allegiance, a realization dawned upon the graduating seniors. Essentially, the Pledge now takes on a whole new meaning for these seniors as they continue to pursue their military aspirations into college.

Cadet Major Ayden Pardo was the first senior to ring the bell, marking an end to his tedious journey to secure a spot into the prestigious U.S. Air Force Academy.

Cadet 1st Lt. Daniel Simmons rang the bell second, heading to the highly sought after Citadel Military College of South Carolina.

Cadet 1st Lt. Emma Leaderwood rang the bell third, solidifying her acceptance into the ROTC program at Texas A&M University.

And lastly, but certainly not least, Cadet Andy Michel rang the bell to signify his enlistment into the U.S. Army Reserves.

As families and teachers proudly watched these seniors ring the bell, our school’s SRO Officer William Bucknam ended the Bell Ringing Ceremony by summarizing how everyone felt. “We are incredibly proud of these four outstanding seniors and what they will become. Thank you for coming to celebrate their dedication and bright futures!”