Cadets gathered outside the Ath on a recent afternoon to post the colors in honor of their former ROTC commander, Lt. Col. Kevin Arnold. Arnold led the ROTC program on CMC's campus for four years before officially retiring during ceremonies last month and turning over ROTC command to Lt. Col. Mike Murphy.

While Arnold bid a farewell to CMC, he was bestowed an honor reserved for "exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding service" and achievement: the Legion of Merit medal. The award was presented by Murphy shortly before noon on Oct. 18, on behalf of Col. Hector E. Topete, commander 3rd Brigade, 4th Region. Topete was unable to attend because inclement weather prevented his flight out of San Francisco. The Legion of Merit was established by Congress on July 20, nearly 60 years ago, and is the Navy's fifth-highest ranking, immediately beneath the Silver Star. The Legion of Merit is awarded to key individuals of the armed forces for service not related to war, and is the highest award that can be given to a soldier in peace time.

Last month, former ROTC commander Kevin Arnold, pictured, turned over command to Lt. Col. Mike Murphy.