Brewster Celebrates Time-Honored Pass in Review Ceremony 

Members of the Brewster High School Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps–148 in total–are gathered in the gymnasium, looking sharp. The group is gathered for their annual Area Manager’s Inspection. 

The inspection is meant 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. 

“I inspect all 29 schools in Area 1,” said Inspecting Officer Gregory Washington. “Brewster is one of the most complete units in all of Area 1. You do it all with pride, and your kids have fun. This program is a citizen development program. The first order of business is to produce great citizens. Thank you for allowing your kids to be part of this program.” 

To prepare for inspection, each cadet has been studying all of the general orders, Navy chain of command, the fleet, uniform measurements, and foundational knowledge of Navy procedure. 

“How are you doing Cadet Cruz?” asked Washington. “What are the measurements for a ribbon on a male uniform?”

“I am good sir. The ribbon is placed ¼ inch from the top of the left breast pocket,” said Cadet Cruz.

After inspection, the unit stood in formation for the actual pass in review. The band played the Review March by John Philip Sousa–not an easy piece. Parents, guardians, grandparents, friends, teachers, and district administrators packed onto the bleachers of the Brewster High School gymnasium.

A.J. Palmer’s family was there, including his grandfather who is a veteran.

The Curtins were there to support their student, Michael.

“We love NJROTC for the tradition and the discipline,” said Kelly Curtin.

As the Commanding Officer of the unit, Danna Hernandez Madrid led the pass in review to close the ceremony, she asked the company if they were motivated? Hooyah! 

“The company is motivated!”