Hamilton High School's Navy JROTC Unit is headed off to the Area 3 Academic, Athletic and Drill Championships this weekend, the 12th and 13th of March. . Last year, Hamilton's Cadets finished a strong second place, with a few points separating them from the gold. This year, Hamilton is going back more determined than ever to win the competition, which will land them at Navy Nationals in Pensacola, Florida as they did in 2008.
The heat starts this Tuesday when the Academic team consisting of 15 bright Cadets will take a comprehensive 100 question; 1 hour academic test. The test will challenge their knowledge of Military History, Military Law, First Aid, Close Order Drill and much more.
The Cadets will be leaving on Friday morning and 16 Cadets will be competing in the Physical Training (PT) phase of the event on Friday night. The PT phase will be rigorous and challenge their bodies to do more than they have ever done before. During this phase, competitors will complete as many correct push-ups and crunches in cadence as possible. There will also be a 16X100 relay.
The following morning, with Reville at 0530, Cadets will then begin the final phase of the competition; Drill. First, Cadets will first demonstrate what they have learned in the Unit Personnel Inspection. Cadet's uniforms and appearance will be critiqued with the utmost scrutiny. They will also be asked questions on regulations, orders to the sentry, chain of command and rates and ranks structure. Cadets will also conduct Color Guard, Unarmed IDR and Armed IDR routines. These routines must be done in the exact order, placement, and timing as specified on their card. These cards can be in excess of 80 commands. Additionally, every movement must be in exact accordance with the USMC Drill and Ceremonies Manual. Cadets will also showcase their Exhibition Drill routines, which are created from scratch by their team's commander. The routines are done completely void of verbal commands with each member memorizing their unique responsibilities.
The Hamilton team is confident and more prepared than ever. This weekend, their skills, discipline and strength will be put to the test. This competition is what all practices and other competitions have led up to. Nothing less than 1st Place overall is acceptable.
Thanks to all the parents for their support. Good luck to all of the Hamilton Cadets, and their instructors: GySgt Todd McAlister & Captain Jim Allison on their quest for conquest.
