Chapman chorus teacher Rebecca Rostron recently received The American Legion Post 45 Award.

“The American Legion” was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness,” the South Carolina Legion website says, “It is the nation’s largest wartime veterans service organization, committed to mentoring youth and sponsorship of wholesome programs in our communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting strong national security, and continued devotion to our fellow servicemembers and veterans.”

During the JROTC awards ceremony last school year, Rostron was completely taken by surprise.

“Mr. Dawkins asked the chorus to sing the national anthem for the ceremony and I thought nothing of it,” Rostron said. “As I was leading them off stage, my name was called along with the director of the award to please take center stage”.

Rostron was awarded a plaque with her name and a dozen roses.

“I was definitely not expecting it, she said.

She learned later that the JROTC leaders secretly nominated Rostron for the award.

Rostron’s students say she deserves the award.

“Ms. Rostron really pushes you to do your best and to make sure you know what you are doing,” senior Iesha In said.