Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, known throughout high school as JROTC, is a program created by the federal government and is supported by the United States Armed Forces. Due to its military involvement, JROTC is often characterized as a form of recruitment because it originated as a means of producing enlistees during times of war. However, the program focuses on citizenship, character development, community service and leadership; it also teaches drill and ceremony, first aid, military history and wellness.
JROTC came to be following the passage of the National Defense Act of 1916, which authorized the government to loan military equipment to high schools across America and assign active military personnel as teachers and instructors. In 1964, the Vitalization Act strengthened these programs, while also creating scholarships and greater sponsorship.
At Trinity, the JROTC is conducted by Sergeant Major Harper and Sergeant First Class Rusnak. These leaders have made the program what it is today and can be credited with the shaping of many young men and women who have gone through their classrooms.
The seniors in the Trinity JROTC are Mason Barbacow, Kyla Green, William Hopkins, Emalee Megyesy and Emily Sheppard.
Harper states, “This senior class demonstrates a high level of leadership involvement and willingness to take ownership of the program. Many cadets are more engaged in mentoring younger cadets and supporting daily operations. However, there is also a wider range of maturity and consistency, requiring continued reinforcement of standards and accountability.”
As aforementioned, the preparation for life after high school has become one of the main purposes of the JROTC. The discipline and order of the program provide a structured environment for students to grow into well-rounded adults with an understanding of ethics, morality, and life skills. While JROTC is a program designed to develop strong, adaptable young Americans, other benefits emerge in the JROTC classrooms.
Barbacow, a member of the JROTC for four years, says, “JROTC has given me a lot more confidence and has bonded me with many people.”
The Trinity JROTC has seen many senior classes, each leaving a positive impact on the school, community and program itself, and the Class of 2026 is no different. These graduating seniors will undoubtedly foster strong community and leadership along whatever path they follow after graduation.
