General Robert Cone, a four-star general and decorated war veteran, recently presented freshman cadet Rony Menzon with the Junior ROTC Medal of Heroism. A student at Phoenix Military Academy and resident of Brighton Park, Menzon risked his life to protect a friend when a gang member randomly opened fire on them last July. Not only has Menzon made a full recovery since then, but his heroic act has been lauded by members of the community and fellow cadets. He also has been named one of Chicago Magazine’s Chicagoans of the Year. Menzon is only the third CPS student to receive this distinguished award, the highest award a JROTC cadet can receive. Phoenix Academy is one of six military ROTC training academies in the District. CPS’ Department of JROTC serves approximately 11,000 cadets and is the largest in the nation.