- Senior Marine Instructor Lieutenant Colonel Thomas J. Grace, USMC (ret) | tgrace@salemk12.org
- Marine Instructor First Sergeant Jeremy Matthews, USMC (ret) | jmatthews@salemk12.org
The Purpose of Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps
The purpose of the Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, commonly known as MCJROTC, is to develop citizenship, service to the United States, personal responsibility, and a sense of accomplishment. Participation DOES NOT create any military commitment. Each year of the program includes 180 hours of leadership instruction and practical application. Students may join the program at any time during their high school career.
The Mission of MCJROTC
Instill the values of citizenship, service to the United States, personal responsibility, and personal accomplishment in students. To fulfill this mission, the program focuses on specific goals:
- Develop responsible, informed citizens who value the rights and duties of the American democracy.
- Strengthen leadership skills and encourage strong moral character.
- Build habits of self-discipline and accountability.
- Promote understanding of national security needs and the role of constitutional authority.
What to Expect in the Program
- Holistic instruction that helps students build physical and mental resilience.
- Leadership instruction and mentorship that teach practical life skills for any future path.
- Support and resources that help students grow personally, academically, physically, and emotionally.
- School and community engagement that builds pride, encourages volunteer service, and promotes citizenship and patriotism.
Special Activities and Teams
Raiders
The Raider Team develops cadets’ physical fitness, leadership, and teamwork through demanding activities such as obstacle courses, endurance events, and team competitions.
These experiences challenge cadets to push themselves, mentally and physically, while building camaraderie, perseverance, commitment, and adaptability.
Marksmanship
Marksmanship is an important part of the curriculum. All students
complete the academic and safety instruction, while participation in practical shooting activities is optional. In addition to learning safe firearm handling and precision shooting, team members may compete in local and national tournaments, set personal goals, and develop patience, discipline, and respect for safety protocols that support responsible decision-making.
Drill Team
Drill Team members strengthen their marching and formation skills while learning discipline, precision, and synchronization. Through close-order drill, public performances, and competitions, cadets build pride, unity, personal growth, and leadership. Units compete in local, state, regional, and national Drill Team competitions
throughout the year.
Color Guard
The MCJROTC Color Guard represents the school and unit at events by presenting the American flag at high school basketball and football games, community parades, ceremonies, and civic events.
Open Opportunities
The JROTC program offers a wide range of ways for cadets to grow beyond traditional competitive teams. Cadets are encouraged to “find their niche” and BE PART OF THE TEAM—whether by taking photos, providing administrative support, helping manage a team, or mentoring underclassmen and peers. Whatever your interests, we will find a way for you to contribute. Through these non-traditional opportunities, cadets can strengthen leadership skills, support the program’s success, and prepare for future academic and career goals. Every role is vital in building a strong, well-rounded unit!
Common MCJROTC Student Misconceptions
- You DON’T have to shave your head, although minimum grooming standards do apply.
- First-year students DO NOT have to meet grooming standards right away.
- You DON’T have to join the military.
- You DON’T lose all your free time or weekends. You CAN participate in other school activities, sports, and clubs year-round, and you CAN choose which after- hours JROTC events you attend.
- You DON’T have to be in top physical condition to join.
