NJROTC Undergoes Annual Inspection

Last month approximately 100 students at Colton High School belonging to the NJROTC (Navy Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps) program underwent their annual inspection. There to inspect each cadet's uniform and military knowledge was retired United States Navy Commander Ken Lyles, who oversees District 11, of which the CHS NJROTC is a part, and Navy Commander Dave Brunkhorst, who oversees the group. The platoon was split into two separate squads and each cadet was inspected individually, with Commander Lyles asking cadets questions about the Navy and their activities and inspecting their uniforms. This year's inspection garnered additional community support, something NJROTC booster parent Kristine Zamora, whose son, Mathieu,is a junior at CHS and leader of the NJROTC colorguard, appreciated. "The two booster sections set up on the field were filled this year. It was nice to see more people showing support this year and the parents got to see the inspection," she said. Parents were joined by Colton Joint Unified School District (CJUSD) school board members, CHS faculty and military members for the occasion. Both Brunkhorst and Zamora mentioned the program's Certificate of Recognition this year, given by Assemblymember Cheryl Brown. Field Representative Jon Gaede presented the award to Commander Brunkhorst during the ceremony on Brown's behalf. "That was a nice surprise," Brunkhorst said. School board member Patt Haro explained that she felt the NJROTC program "helps give students an advantage into entering the military, encourages them to maintain good grades and encourages them to always strive to be better." The cadets are required to perform community service, and they participate in various trainings, compete in field meets, and also regularly attend community functions - the most recent being the Colton Veterans Day Parade on Veterans Day. Following the inspection was a public awards ceremony. Awardees included Cadet Andrew Fleury, who received awards in the community service, academics, distinguished cadet and participation categories. Also receiving awards for participation were cadets Vincent Fernandez, Joel Najar and Frank Lara. Cadet Vanessa Sanchez was awarded the Color Guard Ribbon and cadet Samuel Gutierrez was promoted to the rank of senior chief petty officer, said Brunkhorst. Later that day, the 15 members of the cadet staff gave a private presentation to Commander Lyles, where they highlighted their achievements and goals for the rest of the year. "Overall," said Zamora, "the inspection went great. It was very organized. I feel like the cadets coming in this year are very motivated, and I think the unit has grown quite a bit. We have a good platoon." Brunkhorst said the group was looking forward to becoming more competitive in preparation for the upcoming drill and competition season. "We've done a few competitions already and have a nice set of trophies," said Brunkhorst. On Nov. 16 the cadets will travel to Rialto, where they will compete in the Carter High Sports Day. [END] Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2013 8 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Colton High School Football Field 777 West Valley Blvd., Colton, CA 92324 (Football field is near the Ken Hubbs Gym on Rancho Ave., across from the Math & Science building) ============================= I am a parent of a student that goes to Colton High and is in the ROTC and coming next Wednesday October 30, 2013 they are having their Annual Inspection where the Commander of the US Navy will be at the school to conduct the inspection and I would like to request that a member from the Colton city news to be present to provide coverage. I believe two years ago your paper covered this event. The event starts at 8am to 1030am. At 8am is the inspection and then following awards. Interview with Matthew Hernandez: ORIGINAL ARTICLE: On October 30th, 2013 approximately one hundred students at Colton High School belonging to the NJROTC program underwent their annual inspection. There to inspect each cadets uniform was retired United States Navy Commander Ken Lyles and Navy Commander Dave Brunkhorst. As Commander Lyles made his way down the row of cadets staring straight ahead, he asked each of them questions about the Navy, their activities, or about school. After the first squad's inspection commenced, it was time for the second squad to be put to the test. Parents, members of the School Board, faculty of Colton High School, and members of the United States Navy joined to watch the inspection and ceremony. Pat Haro, a member of the School Board, explained that NJROTC stands for Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training. It is a program that is offered at many high schools throughout the United States. The NJROTC helps give students an advantage into entering the military, encourages them to maintain good grades, and encourages them to always strive to be better. The cadets are required to perform community service, participate in various trainings, and compete in field meets at other schools. This program also helps give students a sense of comradery. Even during school hours these students are able to connect with each other and catch up between classes. Parent to one of the cadets, and local resident, Matthew Hernandez, attended and supported the corp through photography and encouragement. His son, Cadet Petty Officer Ernest Hernandez is a junior at Colton High School and has been in the NJROTC for the last three years. After both inspections, an awards ceremony followed where selected cadets were being awarded, promoted, or recognized. An executive group of kids that were selected by Commander Brunkhorst presented a power point to Commander Lyle on accomplishments for the year and goals they have established for this year. This was a special day to recognize the amazing students that are making a difference in their community. These cadets are all inspiring individuals that are using their positivity to help further their own lives and the lives of others.