At 5 a.m. Thursday, it was still dark outside, and approximately 100 members of all three ROTC branches marched across Bear Down Field.

The cadets were practicing for their 6 a.m. Joint Services Awards Ceremony, which gave out 34 different types of awards to more than 100 cadets, sergeants and other military personnel at the UA.

“”These men and women are tomorrow’s leaders,”” said Brittney Lopez, midshipman, ceremony narrator and political science senior. “”Their talents and determination will surely afford their every opportunity to rise to the top in the future.””

One of the awards presented was the Daughters of the American Revolution award for ROTC students in the top 25 percent of their class who demonstrate superior qualities of loyalty, dependability, character, military discipline and leadership. Other honors included the Naval Academy Alumni Association award, Air Force Association Award, and the National Sojourners Award for Americanism.

After the presentation of military awards, Lopez briefed the audience on UA President Robert Shelton’s educational and professional background.

Shelton approached the podium soon after Lopez’s introduction.

“”As president of the University of Arizona, I get the opportunity to meet with different student groups and organizations,”” Shelton said. “”It is always a pleasure and honor to be able to meet with ROTC students. You are special. You help set us apart from so many other institutions because it is from your ranks that some of the greatest leaders emerge, along with our most committed alumni and most engaged citizens.””

Tyler George, a psychology junior and third year Air Force cadet, believed that the hour-long ceremony went well.

“”It’s just a great sign of military tradition and leadership,”” George said. “”It’s a good thing.””

George was a recipient of the American Legion Excellence Award and the Military Order of the Purple Heart Award.

“”ROTC is one of the best experiences you can have as well as a great way to learn leadership and dedication while on campus,”” George said.

Cadet Douglas Foulk, an Air Force ROTC cadet and history junior, helped organize the ceremony.

“”It was awesome, two thumbs up,”” Foulk said of the ceremony.

Foulk expressed appreciation for Shelton as the keynote speaker.

“”It’s a big deal for us; he’s a strong supporter for ROTC, so we always like to have him out,”” Foulk said.

The Joint Services Awards Ceremony is held every academic school year during the spring semester.