There is no doubt about the impact Northeast’s AFJROTC program has made on students and the community they’re in. There is so much to learn and be apart of here in the class. Sometimes JROTC is even considered more than just a class; it gives cadets of every kind a chance to learn life and leadership skills that are essential for their future. Students have a platform for success, they gain confidence, self-discipline, and a sense of belonging. Sergeant Trent Woodruff, one of the primary teachers in the AFJROTC class, is a major part of the learning that his cadets do. He has had many jobs in this field, but he says this is “..the best job I’ve ever had,” and that he “..get’s to be a part of the cadets’ growing up.” It without a doubt is a strong group of people who have come together in something they all love.

The students that seem to join this involved class can range from people who are interested in joining the military to those who aren’t at all interested and have found a place to fit in. Sergeant Woodruff says that his students are “usually extremely high achievers even when not interested in the military.” Even this makes the class so much more important. It brings students from every background, race, and point in life. Together they build this strong and united program. Some of the biggest goals of AFJROTC range from reducing dropout rates to improving academic achievement to preparing students for military careers. There are a lot of ways these cadets have the opportunity to learn to be able to take charge. Sergeant Woodruff says the class “gives them leadership positions,” and that a “large portion of cadets have command over major parts of JROTC.” This proves that AFJROTC is able to build character and life skills.

It is well known JROTC makes students grow and become better people. It gives them a chance to earn potential and greater mindsets. It is more than just a goal to make sure the students become better than they thought they could, that they are able to make a difference in what they do. Community service is a major part of what this class achieves. The AFJROTC here at Northeast completed about 3,200 hours of service just last year. They try their hardest to give back to the community they care about. Some cadets in the program do community server for people they know or even people they have just met. Things ranging from helping at church to going to a shelter and serving food. It’s beyond true they become engaged citizens in local communities and around the nation. The cadets are always changed for the better. They learn responsibility, respect for others, adaptability, and a willingness to listen to what others have to say. When given the chance these cadets and the officials above them try their hardest to make a difference here in Lincoln.

Another very important part of JROTC is their weekly uniform. This class teaches the students how important attention to detail is. It helps build self discipline and being able to stand for something. They are able to develop sound work and life skills that are extremely valuable. Even after all the things JROTC does, it’s an extreme resume builder for college. JROTC can prepare future students and help them go where they wish to be in life. They can compete for Scholarships & Service Academy appointments. If it so happens that they choose a military career, they may enlist at higher rank. There is an extreme increase in schools force for good leadership and an increased community presence and engagement. AFJROTC is one of the top programs a school can have. These students and cadets are involved and doing a major part for their futures and even more importantly for others. There is no doubt that there is a gratifying feeling to being apart of this group of these amazing people, no matter what status you hold. Trevor Murphy, Advisor to the SASI, proves it by saying “I feel like I am actually making a difference in society, like i’m a part of something much bigger than myself.” The community, people, and the students themselves all make a difference, and a good one at that.