Dedication keeps NJROTC strong

An inside look behind the scenes of Sanger’s program

By Jose Guzman

Reporter

Sanger High’s NJROTC unit was founded in 1976, under the leadership of captain Nick J. Nicholson. The program started with only 17 cadets, but now contains 103 who keep the program flourishing each year under the instruction of Aviation Electronics Technician First Class (AT1) Brett Johnson who has taught over 15 years.

“I learned of the program in my second tour in the Navy when I was teaching electronics in Millington, Tenn,” said Johsnon.

The purpose of NJROTC is to teach students the value of citizenship, service, responsibility and the perception of accomplishment.

“Part of the program is also to assist cadets in feeling the pride of service, but when the uniform is worn correctly it shows respect to veterans and those who are still serving,” said Johnson.

The program itself serves the local community, but just like any other program they also participate in Academics, Public Speaking, Stem Competitions, Drill and Athletics.

“We also participate in activities we as a group plan out. We may not have done much fun activities a few times, but we still manage to be able to have fun still,” said senior Damian Gonzales.

Not only do they focus on the community, but also on building character.

“NJROTC does community service and other aspects focused on our leadership skills and really growing as a person. I know this sounds far-fetched, but genuinely I feel this program gives you more confidence and more awareness of how to manage people,” said senior Jennifer Amador.

It also teaches the students to be aware

“Not gonna lie, being a cadet is a good effort. For me personally, being a cadet means that I’m willing to take on every opportunity for me to build up for what others would see in another person,” said Gonzales.

These cadets learn so much throughout the years, that leads them through their future life.

“I would describe JROTC as a helpful, fun, dedicated program. Mostly because of how we dedicate ourselves to doing good for others and for the community,” said Gonzales.

The program is an easy course that seems intimidating, but in reality it is not. With the life lessons 101 and guidance of AT1 Johnson, NJROTC prepares the students for the outside world, college, and even military.

“NJROTC is far from “scary” in reality it is a very fun environment and family-oriented. I know people like to label NJROTC as a military program and I know I use to, but it goes farther than that,” said Amador.

The term cadet is no different to the term student, you put in the work the same way you would do at school. NJROTC is a team, they move as one.

“NJROTC is a program that people need to a least try once in their lifetime because you get to grow yourself along with doing what you want to do regardless of what people want you to

conform to,” said Amador.

The program is family/team oriented and continues to grow every year, giving a safe place to many students, but in the hopes that in the incoming years the program grows a whopping 45% that the current size of the NJROTC unit will return to Battalion size.