Members of the Brewster High School Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps–200 in total–gathered in the gymnasium on Tuesday, November 19th for their annual Area Managers 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 unarmed drill which ends with a Pass and Review parade.
“Last night I shined my shoes, checked the measurement of my ribbons, ironed out the wrinkles in my uniform and studied my Navy orders and facts,” said senior Minh Ngyun, “I was really nervous but the inspector only asked me one question and I got an excellent for my uniform.”
Inspecting Officer Mr. Gregory Washington spent two hours inspecting the group standing in formation–quizzing each cadet and officer on Naval orders and officials and uniform details. He then addressed the crowd of parents, students, administrators, teachers and community members.
“I am so overwhelmed by Brewster. What you are doing is amazing. It feels like a celebration with this level of support. When 20% of your student body is participating in the program, it’s evident that NJROTC works. This is what a distinguished unit looks like. NJROTC builds better citizens. You are our future engineers, lawyers, officers and judges and I am so proud of you.”
Why is the program at BHS thriving? How is it that 20% of the student body participates when enrollment in the military is declining?
“My three daughters have participated in the program,” said a NJROTC Booster Mom, “the program teaches respect and structure and they love Master Chief Michael Campbell.”
BHS Senior Ryan Martin, the Commanding Officer of the unit said, “I’ve been in the program for four years. It’s brought me leadership skills. I am a quiet person and NJROTC has brought me out of my shell. I’ve also made so many friendships.”
“Some of us plan to go into the military," explained Martin, “I am currently enrolled in the National Guard.”
But others plan to go to college and study business or education or neuroscience. One student wants to be a nurse. Whatever their path, the community and discipline that the program instills is life changing.
The closing ceremony or Pass in Review included a parade by the entire unit in front of Mr. Washington and the audience while the BHS band played.
