by Raven Baker

The JHS Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) program has its own sense of community and discipline. 

Students train and test on military-related activities to help with starting a future in the military. Cadets also proudly wear their uniforms every Wednesday for a grade – they begin with the blues and can earn their ABU uniforms.

Cadets learn valuable life skills, teamwork, and leadership, which prepare them for both future military service and civilian life.

Col. Robert Benning said uniforms are important to the tradition of the program.

“The purpose of school-issued uniforms for Junior Air Force cadets is to instill customs and courtesies, ensuring they learn to properly and proudly adhere to military standards,” said Benning. “The uniforms serve as a tool for education, preparing students for potential military careers by getting them familiar with regulations and expectations.”

Benning described several different uniform types.

“Students learn different uniform types like the OCP, which replicate active-duty wear. They also have their ABUs, which you earn with hard work put into the class.”

In addition, Benning said uniforms are tied to the grading system, “where older students grade younger ones on their uniform based on standards, which shows the importance of precision and regulation. The uniform is a key component in developing discipline and a sense of belonging within the JROTC program.”

Junior Angel Siana, Cadet Second Lieutenant

“I feel okay about the uniforms now that I’m more comfortable, though I was a bit self-conscious at first. It’s important for uniforms to be correct to set a good example for others. The uniform check is a bit lenient, but it’s preparing me for discipline.”

Junior Kameron Hayden, Cadet Second Lieutenant

“I find the uniforms comfortable, and they help me feel ready. It’s important to wear them correctly to show respect and be a good example. The uniform check is pretty simple, and it’s preparing me to be organized and disciplined.”

Junior Wendy Rubio, Senior Master Sergeant

“The uniforms aren’t bad, and I’m getting used to them; they help me with responsibility. It’s important to have them correct to show respect for the uniform and follow the rules. The uniform check requires a decent effort, and it’s preparing me for military experience and neatness.”

Junior Jocelyn Zarate, Junior Cadet Major

“The uniforms are not too bad, and I feel a bit competitive about them. Having them correct is important for assignment grades and helps me weekly. It prepares me for the future in the Air Force, and I’m part of JROTC for community service and field trips.”

Benning said the JROTC program is a class to build up discipline and physically prepare students to be ready for the military, or help them start their future. The uniforms serve the purpose of giving encouragement to students on learning discipline and how to be neater, which are positive traits to obtain. 

Benning wants his students to wear their uniform with pride, but also properly. The uniforms also serve as an educational tool. Students enjoy their uniforms knowing they’re the example for the underclassmen. They show respect to the purpose while also being comfortable.

All photos by Ashton Walcott.