Teacher Appreciation Week runs from Monday, May 4th through Friday, May 8, 2026.
Melchor A. Hennagan, better known as CSM (Command Sergeant Major), is a JROTC instructor at Procter R. Hug High School. Growing up, joining the Army was an “accident.” Around age 19-20, he was getting in trouble and wanted better for himself, so he decided to join the Army—which was “…the best decision I’ve ever made in my life.” He was a trainer for about 32 years and took on roles that ranged from a team leader, squad leader, platoon leader, a First Sergeant to 3 companies, and finally a CSM to a battalion going to Afghanistan.
Never in a million years did he think he would be a JROTC instructor. He did his friend a favor and saved the program on a small island named Rhoda with a population of 3,000 people. He was there for about 2 years, met the mission accomplishment, and spring boarded here at Hug.
CSM stated, “It’s you guys [students] that keeps me motivated.” Joining the Hug Hawk family gave him an opportunity to teach teens to teach, coach, and mentor to prepare them for life after high school, and that’s what continues to motivate him. Melchor shares his advice to Hug students and recommends staying focused on what’s important—“God first, academics, and development as an athlete.”
Student Company Commander of Bravo company, Analia Cruz, mentioned, “CSM tells me to be myself because I always let a lot of people influence my life and decisions. That stuck with me because he’s very influential and someone to look up to.” Senior Hug student, Charbel Ruiz, also commented, “CSM is a hero and a kindhearted person, and he stands up for his beliefs, and against what he knows is wrong.”
Finally, I’d personally like to give appreciation to CSM for always being so understanding and helpful. We should all be grateful to have such an amazing teacher like him on campus.
