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Wingard graduates from VSU, earns Air Force commission
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Joseph B. Wingard has been commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force after completing the Air Force ROTC program and graduating with a bachelor’s degree from Valdosta State University.

ROTC is an educational program designed to provide college students an opportunity to be Air Force officers after completing military study courses and bachelor’s degree requirements at a host college or university.

The program is the largest and oldest source of commissioned officers for the Air Force, with a mission to produce highly qualified military leaders and better citizens for America.

He is the son of William M. and Jackie L. Wymer of Springfield.

Wingard is a 2003 graduate of Effingham County High School.

Effingham School Board Approves $203M budget with Potential Property Tax Increase
2026 budget
This chart illustrates how the Effingham County School District’s $203 million general fund is allocated for fiscal year 2026, including spending on salaries, benefits, transportation, health services, and safety and security. (Courtesy of Effingham School District)
The Effingham County Board of Education approved a $203 million fiscal year 2026 budget Thursday night, reflecting an 11% increase over last year. The rise is largely due to an $8 million spike in health and retirement benefit costs for employees. To help cover the shortfall, the district may raise the property tax millage rate, potentially increasing homeowners’ taxes by up to 12 percent.
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