Connor Hamilton of Strasburg, a cadet at the University of North Georgia (UNG), Dahlonega, Ga., completed Advanced Camp this summer and earned the Recondo badge. A record 33 cadets earned this badge, which is awarded to cadets who display superior skills by exceeding the standards in all camp activities.

Hamilton was one of a record 149 UNG cadets to complete the camp. A year earlier, the camp was canceled due to COVID-19 and converted into the yearlong Operation Agile Leader.

During the 38-day Advanced Camp, U.S. Army Cadet Command tested the participants' military and leadership skills. This allowed Cadet Command to assess their proficiency as future officers. The camp is required for all cadets who seek a military officer commission.