Welcome to the 3rd Bobcat Battalion Website. This is the official website for the JROTC Program for Central High School. The U.S. Army Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) program is a federal program sponsored by the United States Armed Forces in high schools and was originally created as part of the National Defense Act of 1916 and later expanded under the 1964 ROTC Vitalization Act. The Bobcat Battalion was the 3rd Program to be established within the Phoenix Union High School District (PUHSD) in 1953. The mission of JROTC is to motivate students to become better citizens. By joining the JROTC Program, there is no military obligation.

JROTC is one of the largest character development and citizenship programs for youth in the world. JROTC’s mission, "To Motivate Young People to be Better Citizens", is the guide post for the program’s success. The JROTC curriculum includes lessons in leadership, health and wellness, physical fitness, first-aid, geography, American history and government, communications, and emotional intelligence. We sponsor a variety of extracurricular activities through JROTC. Among these are drill teams, honor and color guards, marksmanship teams, and academics. Through your participation in these activities, you'll be a more involved student and community member. Of course, as a JROTC cadet, you'll also have time to socialize with other cadets. The annual Military Ball, South Mountain Veteran's Day Parade and the End-of-Year Awards Ceremony, these are just some of the planned activities you'll enjoy.

Joining JROTC has numerous advantages. The program’s mission is to develop patriotism, good citizenship, and appreciation for the work of the U.S. Armed Forces. Additionally, it builds leadership skills and enhances your ability to work with a team. These are important skills to have not only for college applications, but also for your future career and throughout life. JROTC also helps you improve your physical fitness and learn practical military-related skills. Cadets, as they’re referred to in JROTC, have the opportunity to develop these skills through participating in certain extracurricular activities or competitions between different units in skills like drills, orienteering, and marksmanship. Cadets also have the opportunity to earn special awards and join honor societies. If you choose to pursue a military career, you may also be able to earn or start at a higher rank.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's):

Q: Are students required to join the military?

A: No! Students are under NO obligation to join the military.

Q: Are there any fees for uniforms, books, or special equipment?

A: The JROTC program supplies uniforms, books, and all equipment used in the course are free of charge. Replacement fees could be incurred for damages or losses.

Q: Does my child have to wear a uniform?

A: Yes, the uniform will be worn for inspections (normally once a week) and for other special occasions, such as parades.

Q: Who teaches JROTC?

A: Retired Army personnel with years of experience working with young people. Instructors are certified by the US Army but they are hired by and work for the school district. Besides having state-of-the-art instruction techniques at their command, JROTC instructors serve as exceptional role models for maturing teenagers.

Q: You say you're not recruiting but don't many JROTC graduates enter the military?

A: Yes, many cadets find they enjoy military discipline and structure; it brings out their best and allows them to excel.