Clayton High Cadet Receives Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps’ Highest Award

CLAYTON – Cadet Ensign Andrew Miller was recently awarded the Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC) Meritorious Achievement Ribbon. The ribbon is the highest NJROTC award and can only be given by the NJROTC Area 5 Manager.

Miller received the prestigious recognition on March 19 following his heroic actions while extinguishing a brush fire that threatened multiple homes. He and his mother saw the brush fire while driving, and Miller immediately knew that something had to be done. “I thought to myself, we have to stop that,” he said. Miller’s efforts are believed to have prevented two or more homes from being damaged extensively by the fire.

Clayton High NJROTC Senior Chief Andrew Bond learned of Miller’s heroic act and submitted a nomination packet. “When I heard what he did, it didn’t surprise me one bit,” Bond said. “A lot of people would drive by, but not Miller. He’s the kind to jump in.”

The military citation reads, “On January 29, 2025, Cadet Miller came upon a brush fire. Without regard for his personal safety, he jumped into action and began to smother the flames. Witnesses and fire department personnel have credited Miller for his quick thinking, and the immediate action he took that day most likely saved at least two homes from catching fire. This selfless act brought great credit upon himself, Clayton High School, Alpha Company, and the NJROTC program. WELL DONE CADET!”

Since joining the NJROTC as a freshman, Miller has been laser-focused, quickly moving up the ranks. He is an Ensign Platoon Commander, a position typically held by high school juniors and seniors. Miller is also a member of the Civil Air Patrol, which is a part of the United States Air Force.

Miller’s Meritorious Achievement Ribbon award will continue to inspire Him. After graduating from Clayton High, he plans to join the United States Marine Corps and become a gunsmith.

When asked about receiving the award, he responded, “It’s just surreal. It doesn’t feel possible that something like this could happen. You don’t understand how a single action can impact someone.”