Rain, gusty winds and 45-degree temperatures greeted 158 Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets on inspection day, but despite the dip in temperatures and unfavorable weather conditions, it didn’t dampen their spirits or affect their performances.
With only two cadets unable to participate in the Annual Military Inspection ceremonies, the remaining cadets adjusted their plans by moving the event indoors and pressed on without hesitation.
Cadet Ensign Cristian Cano, who has been enrolled in the NJROTC program since his freshman year, said, “Despite the weather, it turned out to pretty good. Everyone was doing outstanding!”
For Cano, it was encouraging to see a familiar face in Commander Donald B. “Bull” Walker, this year’s inspector.
“I don’t feel as nervous about him,” Cano said.
Platoon “C” commanded by Cano and made up of freshmen in third and fourth class periods, earned the Junior Honor Platoon Streamer, while Platoon “G” comprised of upperclassman from San Benito High School and commanded by Cadet/Petty Officer 2 Victoria Barrera, earned the Senior Honor Platoon Streamer.
Cadet/Master Chief Petty Officer Lizbeth Gonzalez, the Battalion Leading Chief, said, “Today’s inspection went really well. We weren’t expecting this type of weather. We were expecting to do it outside. It was a good inspection. Some of us were nervous, but other than that, it went really well.”
Walker explained that although the weather did not cooperate, it was a great day for the NJROTC cadets because the unit was well prepared for the inspection.
Walker, who stated that all of the uniforms were pressed and cleaned according to uniform regulations, praised their performances.
“The performances of the unarmed and armed drill teams, the color guard, and pass-and-review were outstanding,” Walker said. “I continue to be amazed at the initiative of the cadets in designing and executing a combined drill utilizing the unarmed and armed drill teams.”
Walker also stressed the importance of instilling leadership and learning the core values related to their service and their lives with the hopes of becoming good responsible adults.
Walker praised instructors Senior Chief Christopher Simmons and Lt. Rolando Gonzalez for their professionalism and their immaculate appearance.
“They (cadets) have wonderful leaders,” he said, adding that the instructors help them grow and develop into young adults.
Walker also acknowledged the support of Interim Superintendent of Schools Ismael Cantú and Principals, including San Benito High School’s Henry Sanchez and San Benito Veterans Memorial Academy’s Gilbert Galvan, who were in attendance.
“They are genuinely concerned about the students, the instructors and the NJROTC program success,” Walker said.
NJROTC instructor Lt. Rolando Gonzalez expressed a sigh of relief after the inspection.
At the end of the day, the NJROTC earned the highest marks possible in all inspection areas. A total of 29 Bravo Zulu medals awarded for outstanding uniforms and two platoons earned the highest honors.
“They exceeded my expectations. They all came prepared,” Gonzalez said. “They knew how to march. They knew their general orders and their chain of command. They were prepared.”
Referring to Walker’s inspection, Gonzalez said, “He was very proud of the kids. He was very happy to be here. He noted that it’s always a pleasure to come to a unit that prepares for this type of event. He knew they were prepared, so he thoroughly enjoyed it!”
For more information about the district’s NJROTC Program, please call (956) 276-6075.
