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The NJROTC (Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps) program, established in 1964 under Title 10, U.S. Code, Chapter 102, is offered at accredited high schools nationwide. It is led by retired Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard officers and enlisted personnel. The curriculum focuses on citizenship, leadership, maritime heritage, naval operations, and other naval topics. Classroom instruction is supplemented by activities like community service, athletics, drill competitions, and field trips. The Navy provides resources such as textbooks, uniforms, and instructor salaries.
The Navy National Defense Cadet Corps (NNDCC) program offers schools that don't qualify for a Navy Junior ROTC unit a similar opportunity to instill values of citizenship, service, and responsibility in students. Established in 2008, the program mirrors NJROTC but is primarily funded by the host schools. Schools cover costs like instructor salaries, uniforms, and daily operations, while the Navy provides curriculum materials, essential equipment, and certifies instructors.
The NJROTC/NNDCC program plays a vital role in shaping the character and future of high school students. It promotes patriotism and responsible citizenship, instilling a deep respect for leadership and authority. Through its curriculum, NJROTC/NNDCC encourages students to complete their high school education and pursue higher education, while also fostering a commitment to community service. The program emphasizes personal honor, self-discipline, and leadership skills, providing education on national security and insights into military careers. Moreover, NJROTC/NNDCC offers a positive alternative to destructive decisions and promotes a drug-free lifestyle.
The NJROTC/NNDCC program emphasizes the importance of education by encouraging high school graduation and providing free ACT/SAT preparation, with 60% of graduating cadets pursuing higher education. Cadets in the program demonstrate improved behavior, higher attendance, and enhanced life skills, all while fostering teamwork, self-discipline, and a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, the program strengthens cadets' understanding of national security and civic responsibility, which in turn improves the military's image within the community. Those who complete three years in the program may qualify for advanced enlistment rank, and senior instructors have the opportunity to nominate cadets for appointments to the U.S. Naval Academy.
The NJROTC/NNDCC program, guided by the Naval Service Training Command, spans four years and includes a mix of classroom instruction and activity periods. The curriculum involves three academic sessions and two activity periods per week, totaling 72 hours of classroom instruction and 48 hours of activities, equating to one credit per year. Local schools can adjust for different schedules.
NJROTC/NNDCC cadets engage in various activities that reinforce classroom learning through hands-on experiences, such as parades, community service, competitions, leadership training, orientation visits to military bases, and cruises aboard naval vessels.