Awarded, WHEN EARNED, to any NJROTC cadet who distinguishes himself only by outstanding meritorious achievement or performance of a meritorious act. Excludes such things as length of participation in the NJROTC unit or sustained superior performance in a leadership position. Awarded on a case-by-case basis by the Area Manager.

Awarded YEARLY to cadets in good standing who were unit members during the academic year in which the school earned the Distinguished Unit status. Awarded to only those units that demonstrated the very highest levels of performance.

Awarded YEARLY to one cadet in each year group with the highest combined average for overall scholastic standing and aptitude in NJROTC unit activities (includes academics, homework, physical fitness, community service, drill, etc.).

Awarded YEARLY to one cadet in each year group with the highest overall academic achievement (GPA) in school, including the naval science courses.

Awarded, TWICE A YEAR, to any cadet who meets or exceeds the basic physical fitness exercise requirements as outlined in chapter 5 of Cadet Field and Drill Manual (CFM/CDM), the Cadet Reference Manual (CRM), and PFT Standards Page.