JROTC is an amazing program that allows young adults to learn the basics of military training, and this program will enable students to discover the potential they never knew they had.
JROTC also teaches students the skills to become better versions of themselves, encompassing character development, Leadership, and Citizenship. There's so much more you can learn with JROTC. Are you willing to accept the Challenge?
During middle School the counselors will come to ask you what classes you would like to take. JROTC is one of these classes you can take. You can join JROTC at anytime during your high school years. But it would be best advised to take it as early as possible.
What are the requirements?
Position - Army Instructor
Email - clarence.johnson@cmcss.net
Cell - (931) 919-4761
Position - JROTC Army Instructor
Email - matthew.wolverton@cmcss.net
Cell - N/A
1) Be a student at Kirkwood High School (grades 9–12).
2) Choose JROTC as an elective class during course selection.
3) Get parent/guardian permission (sign required forms).
Be willing to follow rules, including:
- Wearing the uniform once a week
- Following grooming and conduct standards
- Participating in physical activities
Why Do JROTC? What does it offer? Is it Worth?
JROTC's primary goal is to shape teenagers into upstanding citizens; it achieves this by developing their leadership skills. Being in the program also adds a foothold in your college resume, and you could become an officer after your years of college. Just to think this could give you a foot hold into your life.
If you participate in a JROTC program, you become eligible for full-ride ROTC scholarships and paid positions at the five military service academies. For more information, check out “The AMVETS JROTC Scholarship”. As noted previously, unlike the Junior ROTC program (JROTC), ROTC universities and the military service academies do have a military service requirement.
JROTC gives cadets the chance to distinguish themselves through leadership, dedication, and excellence. By participating in teams like Drill, Color Guard, Sabre Guard, Raiders, or JLAB, cadets develop skills, discipline, and confidence that set them apart from their peers. Taking initiative, committing to challenges, and excelling in training or competitions allows cadets to be recognized for their achievements, earn respect, and leave a lasting impact on their unit.
Joining JROTC is worth it because the program helps students develop leadership, discipline, and confidence while preparing them for success in school and life. Cadets learn valuable skills such as teamwork, communication, time management, and decision-making through hands-on activities, structured training, and leadership opportunities. JROTC also promotes citizenship, responsibility, and respect for others.
In addition to personal growth, JROTC offers unique opportunities, including teams like Color Guard, Drill Team, Raiders, Rifle Team, and academic competitions such as JLAB. Cadets can earn awards, scholarships, and community service hours while building a strong résumé. Whether a student plans to join the military or pursue a civilian career, JROTC provides real-world skills, leadership experience, and a sense of belonging that lasts well beyond high school.
Sabre Guard is a ceremonial JROTC unit responsible for honoring military tradition, discipline, and precision. Cadets in Sabre Guard are trained in the handling of ceremonial sabres and perform formal movements, formations, and commands with exact timing and professionalism. The team commonly participates in events such as military balls, parades, change-of-command ceremonies, and special school or community functions.
Membership in Sabre Guard emphasizes leadership, teamwork, respect, and attention to detail. Cadets must demonstrate strong discipline, sharp appearance, and a commitment to excellence, as they represent the highest standards of the JROTC program. Through rigorous practice and ceremonial performance, Sabre Guard cadets help preserve military customs and traditions while showcasing pride, honor, and esprit de corps.
Joining Sabre Guard gives cadets the chance to stand out as leaders and role models in JROTC. It challenges you to perfect your focus, discipline, and teamwork while performing in high-profile events that represent your unit with pride. Being part of Sabre Guard develops confidence, precision, and poise—skills that carry over to school, sports, and future careers.
Cadets also gain a unique sense of accomplishment and pride in upholding military tradition, learning ceremonial skills that few others experience. For those who want to push themselves, work as a team, and be part of a prestigious, respected JROTC unit, Sabre Guard is a rewarding opportunity that builds character, leadership, and excellence.
Drill Team is a competitive and ceremonial JROTC unit that focuses on precision, discipline, and teamwork through structured marching and drill movements. Cadets train extensively in close-order drill, armed and unarmed routines, and complex formations that require exact timing, coordination, and attention to detail. The team performs at inspections, parades, school events, and regional or national drill competitions.
Participation in Drill Team builds leadership, confidence, and mental toughness while reinforcing military bearing and professionalism. Cadets are held to high standards of appearance, accountability, and execution, as they represent the pride, excellence, and traditions of the JROTC program. Through dedication and continuous practice, Drill Team members demonstrate unity, discipline, and esprit de corps.
Joining Drill Team gives cadets the chance to build precision, teamwork, and leadership through challenging, high-energy routines. Cadets learn to perform complex marching and armed or unarmed drills, developing focus, discipline, and confidence under pressure. Being part of Drill Team also fosters camaraderie, pride, and resilience, as every member contributes to the success of the team.
For those who enjoy competition, teamwork, and showcasing skill with professionalism, Drill Team provides a unique opportunity to excel while representing their JROTC unit with honor.
Rifle Team is a competitive JROTC unit that develops precision, focus, and discipline through marksmanship training and competition. Cadets learn the fundamentals of rifle safety, proper handling, aiming, breathing control, and shooting techniques using air rifles. The team competes in local, regional, and national matches, representing their unit with professionalism and sportsmanship.
Participation in Rifle Team builds concentration, responsibility, and self-discipline while reinforcing respect for safety and military standards. Cadets are held to strict expectations for conduct, attention to detail, and performance, as they exemplify the core values of JROTC—leadership, integrity, and excellence. Through consistent practice and competition, Rifle Team members demonstrate confidence, precision, and commitment to success.
Joining Rifle Team gives cadets the chance to develop focus, discipline, and precision through competitive marksmanship. Cadets learn proper rifle handling, aiming techniques, and safety skills while competing in local, regional, and national matches. Being part of Rifle Team strengthens responsibility, concentration, and confidence, as every shot requires careful attention and mental control.
For those who enjoy challenges, competition, and mastering a skill that demands both mental and physical discipline, Rifle Team offers a rewarding experience while representing their JROTC unit with pride and professionalism.
JLAB (JROTC Leadership and Academic Bowl) is an academic competition that challenges cadets to demonstrate knowledge in leadership, citizenship, civics, military history, and current events. Teams compete in fast-paced quiz-style rounds that emphasize critical thinking, teamwork, and quick decision-making. JLAB promotes academic excellence while reinforcing the leadership principles taught in JROTC.
Participation in JLAB strengthens communication skills, confidence, and mental agility. Cadets must prepare through study, collaboration, and practice, representing their unit with professionalism and integrity. JLAB encourages lifelong learning and intellectual discipline, showcasing that leadership excellence extends beyond physical performance to academic achievement.
Joining JLAB gives cadets the opportunity to sharpen their knowledge, critical thinking, and teamwork through academic competition. Cadets answer questions on leadership, civics, history, and current events, building mental agility and confidence while representing their unit. Participation also encourages preparation, collaboration, and strategic thinking—skills that carry over into school, careers, and everyday life.
For cadets who enjoy learning, problem-solving, and competing in a supportive team environment, JLAB offers a rewarding experience that develops both the mind and leadership abilities.
Raiders is a physically demanding JROTC team that focuses on strength, endurance, teamwork, and mental toughness through competitive athletic events. Cadets train in obstacle courses, rope bridges, land navigation, first aid, and team-based physical challenges that test leadership, resilience, and problem-solving under pressure. Raiders teams compete at local, regional, and national Raider competitions.
Participation in Raiders builds confidence, perseverance, and camaraderie while reinforcing discipline and accountability. Cadets are expected to maintain high physical fitness standards, demonstrate strong leadership, and work effectively as a team. Raiders exemplify the JROTC core values of courage, determination, and excellence, preparing cadets for challenges both in and out of uniform.
Joining Raiders gives cadets the chance to push themselves physically and mentally while building teamwork, leadership, and resilience. Cadets train in obstacle courses, endurance challenges, first aid, and navigation, learning to overcome tough challenges under pressure. Participation develops confidence, determination, and problem-solving skills, while also promoting camaraderie and pride in representing your JROTC unit.
For cadets who enjoy competition, physical challenges, and testing their limits, Raiders offers a rewarding experience that strengthens both body and character.
Flag Team (Color Guard) is a ceremonial JROTC unit responsible for the proper presentation and protection of the National, State, and organizational colors at official events. Cadets perform precise movements, formations, and commands while carrying the flags with discipline, respect, and military bearing. The team participates in school functions, athletic events, parades, community ceremonies, and formal military occasions.
Participation in Flag Team / Color Guard emphasizes teamwork, attention to detail, and respect for military tradition. Cadets are held to high standards of appearance, coordination, and professionalism, as they represent the honor, pride, and core values of the JROTC program. Through consistent training and ceremonial performance, members demonstrate patriotism, precision, and esprit de corps.
Joining Flag Team or Color Guard gives cadets the chance to represent their JROTC unit with pride, honor, and professionalism. Cadets develop discipline, teamwork, and precision while performing at ceremonies, parades, and school or community events. Participation teaches confidence, attention to detail, and respect for tradition, as every movement reflects the unit’s standards and values.
For cadets who want to stand out, uphold military customs, and showcase excellence, Flag Team / Color Guard offers a unique and rewarding experience that builds both character and leadership.
JROTC Staff Team is the leadership and management group responsible for planning, organizing, and supporting the daily operations of the JROTC program. Cadets on staff assist in coordinating events, managing administrative duties, maintaining accountability, and ensuring effective communication within the unit. The staff works closely with instructors and unit leaders to support training, ceremonies, competitions, and community activities.
Participation on the JROTC Staff Team develops leadership, responsibility, and organizational skills. Cadets are expected to demonstrate professionalism, initiative, and attention to detail, as they help guide the unit and uphold JROTC standards. Through teamwork and service-oriented leadership, Staff Team members play a vital role in the success, discipline, and mission of the JROTC program.
Joining the Staff Team gives cadets the opportunity to develop leadership, organization, and problem-solving skills while supporting the daily operations of the JROTC unit. Staff members coordinate events, assist in planning training, manage communications, and help ensure the unit runs smoothly. Participation teaches responsibility, attention to detail, and teamwork, as cadets play a vital role in guiding and supporting their peers.
For cadets who want to take on leadership behind the scenes, make an impact on their unit, and strengthen skills that carry into school, careers, and life, the Staff Team offers a meaningful and rewarding experience.