The September 12 celebration will unite generations of alumni for military traditions, distinguished awards and solemn tributes to 9/11 victims and fallen Cleveland and Kennard cadets.
By Argus Staff
MARYLAND HEIGHTS, Mo. — The Cleveland NJROTC Alumni Association will bring together generations of alumni, educators, veterans and community leaders for the 2026 Cleveland NJROTC Alumni Naval Ball on Saturday, September 12, at Orlando’s Event Center, 2050 Dorsett Village in Maryland Heights.
The red-carpet reception and media interviews will take place from 6 to 7 p.m., followed by the formal program at 7 p.m.
Recognized as one of the Midwest’s distinguished alumni celebrations, the Naval Ball will honor the enduring legacy of the Cleveland and Kennard Naval Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps programs. The evening will celebrate the leadership, discipline, service and lifelong relationships cultivated through the programs.
More than a formal gala, the event will bring together alumni representing multiple generations, along with educators, military veterans, supporters and special guests from across the country. The program will include dinner, military traditions, ceremonial presentations, awards, entertainment and alumni reunions.
Because the Naval Ball takes place one day after the anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, the Association will present a special remembrance ceremony honoring the innocent lives lost and the first responders whose courage and sacrifice became symbols of service to the nation.
A separate tribute will remember deceased Cleveland and Kennard NJROTC alumni. The ceremony will celebrate their lives, service, friendship and lasting contributions to the NJROTC family.
Four distinguished educators—Betty Galloway, George Simmons, Shirley Gardner McCain and John Kelley—will receive the 2026 Educators Anchor Award. The award recognizes educators whose leadership, compassion, mentorship and commitment to student success have positively influenced generations of young people.
Kevin “Kevy Kev” Pulley will receive the Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Pulley is being recognized for his decades of service as a radio personality, educator, sports broadcaster, mentor and community leader. His work in education, youth development and community engagement has reached people throughout the St. Louis region and beyond.
The Association will also present special recognition to Senior Chief Petty Officer Erik Findall for his military service, mentorship, leadership and continuing support of the Cleveland NJROTC Alumni Association and its mission.
Members of the media are invited to cover the red-carpet arrivals, interview honorees and alumni, and document the evening’s awards, military ceremonies and tributes. Featured honorees will carry a Gold Star during the reception to help media representatives identify priority interview opportunities.
Organizers say the Naval Ball represents more than an awards banquet. It is an opportunity to preserve the history of Cleveland and Kennard NJROTC while demonstrating how education, mentorship and military values continue to influence families and communities.
The Cleveland NJROTC Alumni Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the programs’ legacy and strengthening alumni relationships through fellowship, mentorship, scholarships, community engagement and service.
MEDIA CONTACT
DeAndre Campbell, President | 314-369-4246 | clevelandnjrotcalumni92@gmail.com
Laticha Green, Vice President | 314-494-2297
