CANTON — Though there were many speeches at Pisgah High School's annual JROTC inspection on Wednesday, perhaps no one summed up the feeling of the day as well (and as quickly) as Principal Greg Bailey.

"Cadets, let me tell you," he said, "you look great."

And they did.

In sharply pressed uniforms and newly shined shoes, the cadets went about their ceremonial duties with palpable reverence that morning, showing off everything from a rifle drill to a color guard exercise in front of a huge crowd. With the marching band and chorus providing music, the ceremonial part of the day was a big event — with a big turnout. Not only did hundreds of students gather in front of the school, but so did N.C. Sen. Jim Davis, N.C. Rep. Ray Rapp, Canton Mayor Mike Ray and countless community members and ...