The cadet color guard competition with the Middle East Region was added 10 years ago and this was the first year that the N.C. Wing has taken both titles — color guard and drill team — for the region. Both teams will advance to the national competition in June.

Maj. Al Therriault, N.C. wing director of cadet programs, commended the Apex and Chapel Hill squadrons for their outstanding performances.

“These cadets have performed in an outstanding manner, and they are really excited about continuing on to the nationals,” Therriault said.

The Apex Drill Team consisted of Ryan Strug (team commander), Olivia Barrow, Kali Fletcher, Joshua Cuany, T.J. Richardson, Justin Strug, Nate Reak, Tyler Weston, Andrew Bills, Austin Savage, Chris Pitilo, Philip Davis, and alternates Peter Barrow and Zac Cook.

“This will be three years in a row that the Apex squadron has represented the N.C. Wing at the National Competition,” said Lt. Col. Pam Landreth-Strug, N.C. drill team coach. “We are all very proud of them.”