FRANKLIN—The two-year-old Army JROTC program at Franklin High School has received state recognition.

The program led by Col. Ben Hudson and 1st Sgt. Derrick Robinson received a Region 2 group award for excellence in career and technical education. The recognition, in large part, was due to its charity work within the Franklin, said FHS Principal Rodney Berry.

The 80-90 students in the program raised money for March of Dimes, went Christmas caroling at a nursing home, raised money for needy families and organized a school district talent show.

“We have the students participate in community service projects because we are trying to grow our students into responsible citizens,” Berry said.

The new program has grown thanks to partial funding from businesses.

“We’ve seen a lot of growth in the program and our students,” Berry said. “We see a lot of potential in the program. We are pleased with the overall participation and we look forward to growing the program next year.”