The Hawk Battalion
JROTC Cadet Handbook
FALL 2016 - SPRING 2017
10th Edition
Published: August2016, Spruce Creek High School Publications
Department of the Army
USAROTCIG, JROTC Division
SpruceCreekHigh School
801 Taylor Road
Port Orange, FL32127
(386) 322-6272
MAJ Mario D. Ochoa (Retired), SAI, Ext. 37767
CSM Ron Emerson (Retired), AI, Ext. 37751
jrotc.sprucecreekhigh.com
1
Table of Contents
WELCOME 1
INTRODUCTION 2
A. Purpose 3
B. History of Program 4
C. JROTC Cadet Creed 5
D. Cannonade 6
E. Cadet 7
F. JROTC Cadet Command Shoulder Sleeve Insignia Description 7
G. SCHS Army JROTC Crest and Patch Description 7
The Army JROTC Curriculum 7
A. Basic Course JROTC Cadets (LET I & II) 7
B. Advance Course JROTC Cadets (LET III & IV) 8
C. Overall Goals of Curriculum 8
D. Grading 8
E. Examinations 8
F. Classes 8
THE CADET SCHS ARMY JROTC HAWK BATTALION 8
A. Purpose 8
B. Organization 9
C. Use of the Chain-of-Command 9
D. Cadre Duty Positions 10
E. Safety 13
F. Military Discipline 13
UNIFORMS AND INSIGNIA 14
A. Responsibilities 14
B. Wear of the Army Uniform 15
C. Special Uniform Authorizations 15
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITY 16
A. Color Guard 16
B. Raider Team 16
C. Drill Team 16
PROMOTION SYSTEM 17
A. Responsibilities 17
B. Procedures for Promotion 17
1
Appendix A: Promotion Checklist A
Appendix B: Cadet Enrollment Contract B
Appendix C: Parent Enrollment Contract C
Appendix D:Cadet Ranks & Organization D
Appendix E:Army JROTC Awards E
Appendix F:Wearing of the Uniform Diagrams/Pictures F
Appendix G: Army Ranks J
1
WELCOME
Welcome to the Spruce Creek High School Army Junior Reserve Officer Training (JROTC) program. This cadet handbook contains most of the information you will need to gain a basic understanding of the Army JROTC program. As you read this handbook, keep the following three things in mind:
1. The primary goal of Army JROTC is to make you the student a better citizen within our community.
2. The Army JROTC program will teach you how to better yourself in many different ways to include gaining the Army basic core values of Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless-Service, Honesty, Integrity, and Personal Courage (LDRSHIP).
3. It is your enthusiasm and participation as a “TEAM” member of the Army JROTC program that will develop you in a life-long learning, communication abilities, responsibility, respect, and better citizenship for yourself and your community.
I encourage you to participate in all of the activities offered by the Army JROTC program today. The program will develop the leadership skills and motivation within you to be a future leader in our great nation tomorrow!
//ORIGINAL SIGNED//
MARIO D. OCHOA
Major,USA Senior Army Instructor
RONALD P. EMERSON JR
Command Sergeant Major, USA
Army Instructor
INTRODUCTION
A. Purpose:
The mission of the Spruce Creek High School Army JROTC program is to provide high school students the highest quality education possible while incorporating the principles of leadership, discipline, patriotism, and honor into the curriculum. Our primary intent is to help enable students to become productive citizens and to help them shape their futures into satisfying and fulfilling lives.
This cadet handbook provides Hawk Battalion JROTC Cadets with a brief outline of some important items of information concerning the Spruce Creek High School (SCHS) Army JROTC program.
1.JROTC Mission:Tomotivate young people to be better citizenswithin their school, community, and country.
2.Objective: To familiarize all Army JROTC cadets with general guidance necessary for their performance while participating in the program.
3.Directive: Additional directives and policies-which outline specific training, guidance, or operations-will be published and disseminated as required throughout the school calendar year by the cadet chain of command. In the event of conflict between this guide and those directives, the latest directive should be followed.
4.Publication: This cadet guide becomes effective upon publication and remains in effect until superseded.
Attitude of JROTC Cadets:
· All students can and should be challenged to learn.
· Education and academic achievement are the chief priorities at SCHS and in the JROTC Program.
· Each student should be treated respectfully and as a valuedindividual, and treat all others with respect and courtesy.
· Parental involvement is essential to the learning process andcomplements the efforts of teachers, staff, administrators, andcommunity members in our shared responsibility to provide
a successful learning environment for their respective son or daughter.
· Establishing clearly defined rules, with structure anddiscipline in the classroom, provides the best learningopportunities for all students.
· The highest standards of education, having clear goals andexpectations for student achievement, should guide classroomactivities and curriculum development.
· A variety of instructional techniques employed in everyclassroom will support the different ways individuals learn.
· Students should be provided assessment tools that fairly offereach the opportunity to demonstrate success in learning.
· All students are life-long learners and each should beencouraged to continually seek self-improvement.
· Students will bring honor to themselves, their family, theircommunity, and the United States of America.
History of Program:
The United States Army Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) came into being with the passage of the National Defense Act of 1916. Under the provisions of the Act, high schools were authorized the loan of federal military equipment and the assignment of active duty military personnel as instructors. There was a condition that the instructors follow a prescribed course of training and maintain a minimum enrollment of 100 students over the age of 14 years who were US citizens. In 1964, the Vitalization Act opened JROTC up to the other services and replaced most of the active duty instructors with retirees who worked for and were cost shared by the schools.
Title 10 of the U.S. Code declares that "the purpose of Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps is to instill in students in United States secondary educational institutions the value of citizenship, service to the United States, personal responsibility, and a sense of accomplishment."
The JROTC Program has changed greatly over the years. Once looked upon primarily as a source of enlisted recruits and officer candidates, it became a citizenship program devoted to the moral, physical and educational uplift of American youth. Although the program retained its military structure and the resultant ability to infuse in its student cadets a sense of discipline and order, it shed most of its early military content.
The study of ethics, citizenship, communications, leadership, life skills and other subjects designed to prepare young men and woman to take their place in adult society, evolved as the core of the program. More recently, an improved student centered curriculum focusing on character building and civic responsibility is being presented in every JROTC classroom.
JROTC is a continuing success story. From a modest beginning of 6 units in 1916, JROTC has expanded to 1555 schools today and to every state in the nation and American schools overseas. Cadet enrollment has grown to 273,000 cadets with 3,900 professional instructors in the classrooms. Comprised solely of active duty Army retirees, the JROTC instructors serve as mentors developing the outstanding young citizens of our country.
Army JROTC has a rich and proud tradition at SCHS since its inception 1985. Since then, over 2,500 students have been through the program and served in various areas in the community and military. Many students have earned various scholarships to a variety of schools to achieve their future goals and aspirations. A number of students have earned appointments to the military academies, ROTC Scholarships, joined as enlisted soldiers receiving bonuses, and are serving or have served in the National Guard or Reserves.
The first officer assigned as the Senior Army Instructor (SAI) was Major Ralph Page whom served diligently for 20 years as an outstanding instructor and role model for thousands of JROTC cadets. 1SG Robert Cantwell (1985-1995) was the first non-commissioned officer assigned as the Army Instructor (AI). Currently, Major Mario D. Ochoa is the second SAI to teach and mentor the cadets at SCHS. SGM Larry D. Kennedy is the AI for the SCHS Army JROTC and has been an integral part of the Hawk Battalion since 1996. CSM Ronald P Emerson joined the program as the third AI for the Hawk Battalion in 2015.
SCHS Hawk Battalion has had several years as an Honor Unit with Distinction and is currently in a new phase of realignment to attain the prestigious award once more. The cadets have represented the school well throughout the years and most recently placedat the Drill Competition at state and placed overall 5th Place at the Raider Team State Competition. It has competed at the National Level in both Drill & Raider taking 17th and 11th respectively.
C.Cadet Creed:
The cadet creed was adopted in June 1988 to imbue Army Cadets with the values, which are critical to being successful cadets and later as Army officers. The Creed is displayed at Headquarters, Cadet Command and at all region and cadet battalion headquarters. The creed is short, but contains a profound message.
1. Cadet Creed:
- I am an Army Junior ROTC Cadet.
- I will always conduct myself to bring credit to my family, country, school and the Corps ofCadets.
- I am loyal and patriotic.
- I am the future of the United States of America.
- I do not lie, cheat or steal and will always be accountable for my actions and deeds.
- I will always practice good citizenship and patriotism.
- I will work hard to improve my mind and strengthen my body.
- I will seek the mantle of leadership and stand prepared to uphold the Constitution and the American way of life.
- May God grant me the strength to always live by this creed.
2.Explanation of the Cadet Creed:
The Cadet Creed, in a few carefully selected words, explains what is expected of an Army Junior ROTC Cadet. The Cadet Creed is a key element in the traditions of Cadet Command and is used to the maximum extent possible. Points to be emphasized in the explanation follow:
"Teachingthe values which make this Nation great."
"Honor is my touchstone."
"Mission first and People always."
“I am the Past."
"I am the Present."
“I am the Future."
“I Will do my Duty."
Doing one's duty encompasses all the traits inherent in being an Army JROTC cadet. In the words of one of America's most respected Army commanders, General Robert E. Lee, "Duty is the most sublime word in our language. Do your duty in all things. You cannot do more. You should never wish to do less."
Cannonade:
An integral part of Cadet Command's reviews and ceremonies is the firing of a three-volley cannonade saluting the pillars of our service to our Nation - duty, honor, and country.
Duty - obedience and disciplined performance. Despite difficulty or danger, duty requires self-responsibility and selfless devotion.
Honor - encompassing integrity and dedication. Honor is the thread that holds together the fabric of our Army.
Country - for which men and women have given their lives. Our country shines as the light of freedom and dignity to the world.
JROTC Cadet Command Shoulder Sleeve Insignia Description:
1.Description: The torch of knowledge and the wreath for achievement.
2.Symbolism: Students endeavors for attaining knowledge as patriots of the country.
SCHSArmy JROTC Crest and Patch Description:
1. Crest Description: SpruceCreekHigh School name on top and the JROTC logo on the bottom. It has the school colors of Orange, White, and Black with the school mascot in the middle.
2. Crest Symbolism: The Hawk symbolized the spirit of flight and achievement through its ability to fly, soar and attain great things in life.
The Army JROTC Curriculum
A. Basic Course JROTC Cadets(Leadership Educational Training - LET I and II):
Basic course cadets are introduced to the customsand traditions of the Army. They are introduced to the fundamentals of leadership development and the importance of understanding the principles that are important to effective leadership. Cadets are taught the basics of land navigation and usage of Global Positioning Systems (GPS). Class instruction will include rank structure, chain of command, leadership principles and values, and history of American Leadership and Patriotism.(LET I class has LET III & IV in them as leaders).
B. Advance Course JROTC Cadets (Leadership Educational Training - LETIII and IV):
Re-emphasis on the basic course will be conducted by the instructor(s) as necessary during these two levels as a JROTC Cadet. Instruction will deal with more responsibility with regards to leadership development, proficient military skills, and the foundations of officership, character, responsibilities and discipline and a Senior Cadet. Each cadet must have the ability to conceptualize, innovate, synthesize information and make sound decisions while in leadership positions within the battalion. (LET II & III classes are together for mid-level leadership transition and LET III & IV class is the primary leadership class/staff).
C. Overall Goals of the Curriculum:
The study of military professionalism with an emphasis on command and staff relations, organizational functions and duties of various staff officers that assist the leadership of the organization are the goals of JROTC Curriculum. It is the responsibility of the command and staff at the battalion level to ensure that all events are carefully planned and organized and efficiently and effectively executed. Each LET Level class will have a syllabus outline and cadets will be responsible for all upcoming assignments by the particular instructor.
D. Grading:
The JROTC program uses the District Grading System:
90-100A
80-89B
70-79C
60-69D
0-59F
*Points will be awarded as projects, assignments, tests, and other activities are totaled throughout the semester. Extra assignments and participation will also be considered.
E. Examinations:
There will be a minimum of two exams throughout each semester cycle. Each exam will be worth 200 or more points and cadets should focus on passing with the best grade possible. You will be given points for wearing of the uniform, participation on team events, and other project requirements outline in each syllabus.
F. Classes:
Cadets attend classes in accordance with the section assignment received at registration. The subject and lesson assignment for these classes will be handed out in the form of a syllabus at the beginning of each semester. Special text/manuals are issued to the student as necessary.
Expected behavior includes:
(a) Cadets raise their hand to be recognized to ask or answera question.
(b) Once recognized, cadets may sit or stand to speak.
(c) Cadets do not leave their assigned seat without permission.
(d) Food and drinks are not allowed in the classroom.
SCHS ARMY JROTC HAWK BATTALION ORGANIZATION
A. Purpose
The Army JROTC is organized to provide a Chain-of-Command structure for the execution and supervision of JROTC operations and activities. The battalion serves as a training vehicle for all cadets, giving them the opportunity to become familiar with the functions and responsibilities of commanders and staff officers.
B. Organization
The SCHS Army JROTC is comprised of cadets from all grades from 9 through 12. Together, the cadets from these grades function as one unit to accomplish the mission of JROTC within the school.
1.In general, the organization of the SCHS Army JROTC models that of any battalion within the Army structure
2.The organizational structure is diagramed in Figure 1 below.
3.The major functional areas are
a. The Command Group: Responsible for the command and control of all activities and functions of the battalion.
b. The Staff Group: Responsible for planning in their functional areas and advising the commander on matters pertaining to their missions.
C. Use of the Chain-of-Command
1. Each cadet company is sub-organized into platoons, squads and teams.
2. LET IIIs and IVs hold key positions as Company Commanders, First Sergeants, Platoon Leaders, Platoon Sergeants and Squad Leaders.
3. When a cadet has a problem, question or concern affecting his/her performance in
JROTC, the Cadet Chain-of-Command should be utilized to assist in the solution of the problem. If the Cadet Chain-of-Command cannot resolve the situation, it should be referred to the appropriate advisor/instructor.
PERIOD 2 - Leadership Educational Training - LET I / II and selected LET IIIs & IVs
PERIOD 3 - Leadership Educational Training - LET I / II and selected LET IIIs & IVs
PERIOD 4 - Leadership Educational Training - LET I / II and selected LET IIIs & IVs
PERIOD 5 - Leadership Educational Training - LET III and LET IV Battalion Leaders & Staff
PERIOD 6 - Leadership Educational Training - LET I / II and selected LET IIIs & IVs
PERIOD 7 - Leadership Educational Training - LET I / II and selected LET IIIs & IVs
Figure 1. Cadet Battalion Task Organization
1
D.Cadet Duty Positions
1. Position:Battalion Commander
Rank:Cadet Lieutenant Colonel/LTC
Duties and Responsibilities:Responsible for everything the SCHS Army JROTC Hawk Battalion does or fails to do. Supervises, directs, rates and evaluates the Company Commander, Battalion Staff, Executive Officer, Battalion TAC Officer and Sergeant Major. Exercises command and control over the battalion to ensure all missions assigned are accomplished, all training is efficiently and effectively executed and to ensure that the health, welfare and conduct of the battalion are of the highest caliber. Serves as the primary advisor to the PMS on all matters pertaining to the SCHS Army JROTC Hawk Battalion. The CDT LTC serves as the epitome of a potential officer and role model for the rest of the battalion.
2.Position:Battalion Executive Officer (XO)
Rank:Cadet Major
Duties and Responsibilities: Responsible for everything the Battalion Staff does or fails to do. Serves as the second-in-command and as the principle advisor to the Battalion Commander. Establishes special committees and projects as assigned by the commander.
3.Position:S1 Adjutant
Rank:Cadet Captain/Major
Duties and Responsibilities: Responsible for personnel accountability during events and class structure for JROTC. Assists the instructors as the Administration Officer with respect to all cadet manning rosters, records, awards, certificates, etc. and other administrative duties. Ensures all records are accurately maintained. Coordinates the battalion awards ceremonies.