JROTC program at WCHS shapes future leaders

The Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) program at White County High School has been making a remarkable impact on students, both those with aspirations of joining the military and those pursuing other paths. Led by dedicated instructors with extensive military backgrounds, the program offers a range of benefits that extend far beyond the classroom.

JROTC is a hands-on elective course that focuses on teaching essential skills such as leadership, marching, physical fitness, military bearing, first aid, and team building. What sets this program apart is its student-led approach, where upper-grade students take on the role of mentors and guides, fostering a sense of responsibility and teamwork among their peers.

 The program boasts a variety of engaging activities, from military balls to holiday programs, field trips, and the challenging JROTC Cadet Leadership Challenge (JCLC). JCLC, a four-day leadership camp, emphasizes the values of responsibility and teamwork, shaping cadets into well-rounded individuals.

 Moreover, JROTC offers special teams like Color Guard, Raider, and Rifle, providing students with opportunities to engage in friendly competitions with other JROTC programs. Notably, all activities, including special teams, are free of cost, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all students.

While JROTC is not designed to recruit students for the military, it offers valuable incentives for those interested in pursuing a military career, such as advanced pay, scholarship opportunities, and enhanced life skills. Participants like Cadet Major Morgaine Boyd and Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Casey Geer have testified to the program’s transformative impact on their self-esteem, leadership abilities, and personal growth.

According to two cadets, Morgaine Boyd and Casey Geer, the White County High School’s JROTC program is changing lives and setting students up for a successful future.

“JROTC has improved my self-esteem, helped me become a better community member, and enhanced my capacity to mentor and guide other cadets to achieve their objectives,” Boyd, who holds the rank of Cadet Major, said.

Geer, who holds the rank of Cadet Lieutenant Colonel, said  she has changed as a person as a result of her time spent in the program.

“JROTC has instilled in me discipline, leadership, and a sense of purpose, transforming my potential into action and guiding my growth both in and out of the program,” Geer said.

Leading the charge at White County High School are two distinguished instructors: First Sergeant Romero and SFC Moore. First Sergeant Romero, a seasoned Army veteran with 23 years of service, brings a wealth of experience in roles ranging from EMT to Respiratory Therapy. His passion for mentoring and dedication to expanding the program underscore his commitment to shaping future leaders.

 On the other hand, SFC Moore, a combat engineer with 23 years of Army service, chose to teach JROTC inspired by his own high school instructors. His strong family values and military background enrich the program, creating a nurturing environment for students to thrive.

 The JROTC program at White County High School stands as a beacon of leadership development, instilling discipline, teamwork, and a sense of purpose in its cadets. By equipping students with invaluable life skills and fostering a culture of camaraderie, JROTC paves the way for students to excel not only in the classroom but also as outstanding members of their communities.