Mark Tyler
District Communications Specialist
Atlantic City High School’s Naval Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps recently held its annual military inspection, showcasing the dedication and precision of its cadets.
The event took place in the school’s gymnasium, where about 235 cadets assembled in full dress for a comprehensive uniform inspection, drill demonstrations, and pass and review ceremony.
Senior Naval Science Instructor Coast Guard Captain Sean O’Brien (Ret.) said the students have made significant achievements.
“The cadets in this program are just amazing,” he said. “It’s a year worth of work, including after school."
The sight of the cadets in their well-pressed uniforms was a testament to their hard work and commitment. Cadets both organized and led the program, demonstrating their leadership skills and teamwork.
Cadet Battalion Commander Zuzanna Turska, who is a senior, is the student in charge of all the cadets.
The job is about service, rather than power, she said.
Cadet Battalion Commander Zuzanna Turska, who is a senior, comes from a military family. Her father, Jakub Turski, is a staff sergeant in the U.S. Air National Guard.“I prepare everyone and make sure they have all of the resources they need to be successful,” said Turska. “It helps you grow into a better, more confident person.”
She applied to both the Coast Guard Academy and Naval Academy. Her third option is to pursue nursing, she said.
Turska comes from a military family. Her father, Jakub Turski (is the masculine version of the surname in Polish), is a U.S. Air National Guard staff sergeant.
“I’m very proud of her,” Turski said. "She is a battalion commander. I was not expecting her to go to a military academy. She did not choose the Air Force. But I’m still proud.”
The NJROTC program has long been a cornerstone of the school, instilling values of discipline, respect and duty in its participants.
Commander Eric Humphreys, U.S. Navy retired, oversees regional NJROTC programs in the area. He praised the local leadership.
“They’re doing great,” Humphreys said. “This is a successful, growing program that is providing an asset to not just
the school, but also the community."
NJROTC isn’t just a marching and drill program, Humphreys said. It helps students learn physical fitness, discipline and other skills needed for winning in life.
“We’re a citizenship program and we’re helping them become better citizens,” Humphreys said. “Hearing the stories and watching the successes — it warms the heart."
The inspection began with a thorough examination of the cadets’ uniforms.
Attention to detail was paramount, and the cadets did not disappoint. Each uniform was meticulously inspected to ensure it met the high standards set by the NJROTC.
Some students even received awards for the care that they show to their uniforms, including freshman Christopher Bell.
He said the NJROTC program teaches unity.
“We all stand as one,” Bell said. “I like the teamwork. "I like the discipline. I like the physical and mental challenges."
Bell received a uniform ribbon bar because of his attention to detail in terms of caring for his uniform.
Freshman Christopher Bell said the program teaches unity.Following the uniform inspection, the cadets performed a series of drill demonstrations. These intricate routines showcased the cadets' ability to execute precise movements in unison, reflecting their training and discipline. The drill demonstrations were met with applause from attendees, who included family members and school staff.
The event culminated in a pass and review ceremony. Cadets marched in formation as they passed the reviewing stand. This tradition, steeped in military history, allows cadets to display their skills and receive recognition for their efforts.
The annual military inspection is not just a showcase of the cadets' abilities but also a celebration of their growth and achievements throughout the year. It serves as a reminder of the NJROTC program’s importance in shaping young minds and preparing them for future endeavors.
As the inspection concluded, some cadets reflected on their performance and looked forward to the upcoming year.
Chief Omar Smith-Stotts, a senior at the school who serves as a platoon leader, said working with the younger cadets is a source of pride on many levels.
“It makes me think that I helped them get better,” Smith-Stotts said. “And, they do a great job.”
The NJROTC program continues to thrive at Atlantic City High School, fostering a sense of community and excellence among its members.
O’Brien said 13 seniors plan to enlist in the military and 23 want to go on to college.
The NJROTC program has helped these students secure more than $1.4 million in merit-based scholarships.
“We want to open up every opportunity for them,” O’Brien said.
“We’re trying make these students the best possible students that they can be,” Humphreys added. “If you’re the best student that you can be, you’re going to achieve what it is you want to achieve.“
Chief Omar Smith-Stotts, a senior at the school, serves as a platoon leader.
