Members of the Brewster High School Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps gathered in the gymnasium this morning for their annual Area Manager's Inspection, looking sharp.
The inspection is designed to ensure that the group operates and maintains U.S. Navy standards, including the proper wearing of the Navy uniform, personal appearance, general knowledge of the U.S. Navy, General Orders and Chain of Command, and an exhibition of armed Color Guard and armed drill, which ends with a Pass and Review parade.
The stadium seating was filled to capacity with parents, grandparents, siblings, administrators, board of education members and teachers who all came to watch--they are so proud of these 155 cadets for their commitment and discipline to the program. Did you know cadets wake up early every day to get to school by 6:30 am to train?
Inspecting Officer, Commander Eric Humphreys, USN, walked around each of the platoons checking belts, shoes, ribbons, and hats and asked each cadet a series of questions.
“He asked me about my orange ribbon,” said sophomore Jacob Stone, “I got it because I am the academic team commander. This medal is for my community service.”
Junior Kevin Cantoral Madrid, the second platoon commander got all “outstandings” and “excellents” for his platoon’s performance.
“Commander Humprheys said he could tell I worked with my platoon a lot. I made sure everyone got checked beforehand and they did a great job.”
The Brewster program is special–it is the only such unit north of New York City and this side of the Hudson. And it is only one of 583 around the country. In total, there are 88,719 students in NJROTC programs. The mission of the program is to instill in students the values of citizenship, service to the United States, personal responsibility and a sense of accomplishment.
Commander Master Chief of the BHS program, Michael Campbell said, “We focus on leadership development. We let the Cadets run the program, after they learn to follow and work as a team. We find that it increases the level of personal responsibility and sense of accomplishment.”
Is it all worth it?
"I am ecstatic about Brewster NJROTC," said Marisol Machado-Ford, whose son, Liam is a cadet, "it's about citizenship, personal responsibility and community."
Irina Chepel, whose daughter Katherine is in her second year said, “it’s a great motivator and opens up so many possibilities for students.”
Did Brewster NJROTC pass inspection? Absolutely!
"I can attest the Navy is making a great investment in Brewster NJROTC. I am so proud of this program," said Commander Humphreys.