Columbia county newsmakers

Leadership camp

Samuel A. Matta has graduated from the Army ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps) National Advanced Leadership Camp at Fort Lewis, Tacoma, Wash.

The camp provides the best possible professional training and evaluation for all cadets in the aspects of camp life, administration and logistical support. Although continued military training and leadership development is included in the curriculum, the primary focus at camp is to develop and evaluate each cadet's officer potential. The cadet command assesses each cadet's performance and progress in officer traits, qualities and professionalism while at camp.

Matta is the son of Chad B. and Shannon M. Matta of Martinez. He is a 2002 graduate of Pacelli High School, Columbus, Ga., and is a student at Georgia Military College, Milledgeville.

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Basic graduate

Army National Guard Pvt. Kelley Wearrien has graduated from basic military training at Fort Leonard Wood, Waynesville, Mo.

During training, the trainee received instruction in drill and ceremonies, weapons, rifle marksmanship, map reading, tactics, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid and Army history, core values and traditions.

Wearrien, a 2003 graduate of Harlem High School, is the daughter of Henrietta Wearrien of Harlem.