DCHS Provides New Immersive Junior Military Program
By Kale Lowery, DCHS Publications
When junior Seth Brooks found out there was an Air Force Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (Air Force JROTC) program at Dodge City High School, he was ecstatic. "I have a military family, and with that came a passion for the Armed Forces. Once I learned there was an Air Force JROTC starting here at DCHS, I just had to join," said Brooks.
For the 2020-2021 school year, Dodge City High School had the opportunity to add an Air Force JROTC program. The program provides a variety of differences from a regular class, one being that the students, or cadets, are taught by a master sergeant. By serving 20 years in the U.S. Air Force, Master Sgt. Gonzales understands the usefulness and the influence the Air Force JROTC program has on the cadets involved. "The cadets learn leadership, teamwork, attention to detail, manners and gain a sense of accomplishment through the curriculum and extra-curricular activities," said Master Sgt. Gonzales.
The Air Force JROTC program gives the cadets opportunities for community service, competition drill team and Color Guard, and field trips to places such as the Mid-American Air Museum in Liberal. According to the Official United States Air Force website, the Air Force JROTC program's mission is to "develop citizens of character dedicated to serving their nation and community."
The cadets start their week with a uniform inspection, where they wear their uniforms to school to be inspected by the master sergeant during class. Tuesdays through Thursdays, cadets learn about leadership, mental health, and the history of flight. Fridays are spent doing physical training.
While the Air Force JROTC program is still new, there are a total of 80 cadets signed up. The program has already made an impact on those involved. "I promise that if anyone were to join in the future, it doesn't feel like another class, but as being a part of something great with a sense of belonging," Brooks said. Story provided by Kale Lowery. Kale is a DCHS Senior and is the assistant editor of the DCHS Publications.
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