Episode 6: From Veteran to Hometown Hero: Commander Bates on Leadership & Service in Ascension Parish (ft. Commander Bates)

This week on Parish Porch, we’re shining a spotlight on one of the most impactful programs shaping young leaders in our community, JROTC. Commander (Aaron) Bates, a retired U.S. Navy officer, joins us to talk about his journey from cadet to commanding officer and how he’s now using that experience to guide students at St. Amant High School.

We talk about:

• The real purpose of JROTC (spoiler: it’s not military recruitment)
• How discipline, structure, and mentorship can change a teenager’s life
• What Commander Bates looks for in his cadets, and how he builds leadership from the ground up
• The personal path that led him from Metairie to Covington to 27 years in the Navy
• Why he believes JROTC is one of the most valuable programs in public education today

Whether you’re a parent, educator, or former cadet yourself, this episode is packed with insight into what’s working in Louisiana schools and why programs like JROTC deserve more attention.

Resources:

• Follow the St. Amant High School NJROTC Program on Facebook! 
• Connect with Commander Bates via the St. Amant High School website
• Veterans support via the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs

COME MEET US!

This Friday, the 25th, Parish Porch will be at the Gonzales Lowe's! Stop by, learn more about what we do and why, and enter our raffle for a chance to win some local goodies from Country Kitchen, Curve Mart, and Ascension Community Theatre.

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