Friday, April 8, marked the centennial anniversary of the JROTC program here at Poly. And what better way to celebrate than cake! Everyone was welcome to a slice, and there was more than enough to go around. Their choice to share the celebration with anyone willing to show up is not surprising.
JROTC members are well known for their kind, giving nature, with their contributions to many charity and community service events. Cadets from every team came out to celebrate, including the Dark Knights, Unarmed Color Guard, Riffle Team, Spartans, and Raiders.
The JROTC program first came to Poly 100 years ago, and since then, the techniques and instructors have changed, but the goals of the program have not.
“It really changes you for the better, it has always been about teaching students lifelong values, making them into better citizens, and just more outgoing,” said sophomore Jathaira Ribbs when asked about how the program has evolved over time. “It grows more and more; it isn’t just for people who are interested in joining the army, it’s for anyone.” The program is definitely getting more popular with people wanting to gain responsibility. Others join simply for fun.
Although the majority of these students hope to join the military at some point, some are just in it for the experience.
Freshman Xiomara Torres joined to learn valuable leadership skills. “I joined in tribute and to show people that I do have strength and am capable of leadership, which is exactly what the program teaches you, and you never forget it.”
Many follow in the footsteps of family members who they look up to. Those who joined the military after high school still remember everything they learned and encourage younger generations to join.
Many legacies started through Poly’s JROTC program. New legacies start every year, and those who do not plan on expanding their military training still advise their friends to join the program.
“I first heard about it from my friend Natasha, and yeah, I would totally recommend joining, it’s really awesome,” said freshman cadet Sofia Amores.
Though the event was largely a happy one, respects were paid in a moment of silence for two cadets lost in the past year. That Friday marked the one year anniversary since the death of cadet Jessie Yuth, who died while saving a friend from drowning. He is remembered as a leader and hero. The recent tragedy of 17-year-old cadet Chad Hang, who was shot and passed away on Friday, April 1, was also remembered. Hang was a member of the Color Guard Drill Team and will be dearly missed. In the past hundred years JROTC has impacted the lives of many, and will continue to do so in the future.
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