COLUMN: New program beneficial to students

The WBHS instructors are Thomas Evans and Franklin Brown while Sean Feely directs the program at AHS. One highlight of the class is students have the opportunity to compete in Raider events against programs from other schools. Both WBHS and AHS students are currently training for these competitions.

In fact, on Saturday, Oct. 24 at Ft. Yargo State Park, the two local schools will host the state competition with approximately 700 cadets visiting Winder for the event. Already the local programs are making their mark by hosting the event.

For those who may be interested, 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.

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.”

Now the Barrow County School System is a part of JROTC and it was a positive move by all indications. Interest in the program was strong at both local high schools and students are learning many things which will carry them beyond their high school days.

Yes, economic times are tough locally and elsewhere. However, at times you have to have foresight to see further down the road. The Barrow County BOE had the correct vision in adding this program. By doing so, they have helped students who participate in the JROTC learn in many ways. These students are growing in ways beyond a textbook.

Strength (both physical and emotional), character, discipline and pride are just some of the lessons being taught by the local JROTC instructors. All of these lessons will benefit those who are enrolled long after their education is complete locally.

Chris Bridges is editor of the Barrow Journal. You can reach him at cbridges@barrowjournal.com.