The Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (MCJROTC) is a program sponsored by the United States Marine Corps. It's aimed at teaching high school students the value of citizenship, leadership, service to the community, personal responsibility, and a sense of accomplishment. It operates in a structured manner similar to the Marine Corps, which includes a chain of command.
Company Commander
Cadet Captain Ava Freeman
The Cadet Commanding Officer (CO) is typically the highest-ranking cadet within the MCJROTC unit at their respective school. Here's a general overview of the responsibilities and roles of an MCJROTC Cadet Commanding Officer:
Leadership: The Cadet CO is responsible for leading and managing all cadets in the unit. They serve as a role model for other cadets and are expected to demonstrate the highest standards of conduct, discipline, and performance.
Command: They oversee the execution of all MCJROTC activities, including training sessions, community service activities, ceremonies, and other events.
Coordination: The Cadet CO coordinates closely with the Marine Instructor (MI) and Senior Marine Instructor (SMI) to ensure the program's curriculum and activities are properly implemented.
Administration: They may be involved in administrative duties, such as keeping records, reporting, and ensuring that other cadet staff members perform their designated responsibilities.
Decision Making: They may need to decide on matters related to cadet promotions, disciplinary actions, etc.
Communication: Regularly communicates with both cadet leadership and instructors to ensure the smooth operation of the unit.
Training: The Cadet CO is also responsible for ensuring that all cadets receive proper training and that the training standards set by the MCJROTC program are met.
Representation: They represent the MCJROTC unit at school and community events and often serve as the public face of the unit.
Company First Sergeant
Cadet 1Sgt. Ryan Pillion
The MCJROTC Cadet First Sergeant (1stSgt) is a vital leadership position within the Goochland MCJROTC unit's chain of command and works directly with the Cadet Commanding Officer.
Leadership: The Cadet 1stSgt, just like other leadership roles in MCJROTC, serves as a role model for the other cadets and is expected to maintain and exemplify the highest standards of conduct, discipline, and performance.
Administration: One of the primary responsibilities of the 1stSgt is maintaining unit order and discipline. They handle administrative tasks, such as maintaining rosters, ensuring that uniforms are in order, and helping with attendance records.
Liaison: The 1stSgt often acts as a bridge between the cadet officers and the enlisted cadets, ensuring good communication flow and that the enlisted ranks carry out directives from the officers.
Training: They often assist in the training and mentoring of cadets, ensuring that drills, ceremonies, and other activities are executed correctly.
Accountability: The 1stSgt often takes charge during formations, ensuring cadets are present and accounted for, and they usually report directly to the Cadet Commanding Officer (CO) regarding unit strength, discipline, and other pertinent matters.
Discipline: The 1stSgt often deals with minor disciplinary issues, providing guidance and correction as needed to ensure cadets uphold MCJROTC standards.
Ceremonies: During ceremonies and parades, the 1stSgt has specific roles, such as posting colors, assisting with inspections, or leading specific segments of the ceremony.
Company Executive Officer
Cadet 1st Lt. Ailey Black
The MCJROTC Cadet Executive Officer (XO) is the second-in-command within the MCJROTC unit, directly subordinate to the Cadet Commanding Officer (CO). The role of the XO is essential for the smooth operation of the unit. The XO duties are:
Leadership: The Cadet XO acts as a role model, exhibiting the core values and principles of the MCJROTC. They should be ready to assume the duties of the CO if necessary.
Administration & Operations: The XO usually oversees the day-to-day operations of the unit. They ensure that training, activities, and schedules are executed as planned. This role involves coordinating between various cadet staff sections and ensuring they effectively perform their duties.
Liaison: The XO helps bridge communication between the CO and the rest of the unit, including other cadet staff members and the enlisted cadets. They often mediate and address concerns or issues that arise within the unit.
Training Oversight: They may help supervise training activities and ensure that training standards are met, ensuring that all cadets get the necessary instruction and guidance.
Reporting: The XO typically provides reports to the CO regarding the unit's status, progress, and any issues or concerns. They may also handle or oversee administrative tasks like record-keeping.
Planning: The XO often assists in planning MCJROTC events, activities, and training, ensuring that resources, logistics, and schedules are in order.
Discipline & Standards: The XO helps enforce discipline and standards within the unit, ensuring that all cadets adhere to MCJROTC policies and uphold the core values.
Assistance: The XO supports the CO in executing their responsibilities and decisions, ensuring that the unit's objectives are met.
