From 21-23 July, 2025, Air Force Junior ROTC Unit AL-20021 proudly hosted its summer Orientation, welcoming the new cadets. After weeks of diligent preparation led by Committee POC C/Atiana Rutland, the upperclassmen successfully coordinated a dynamic three-day program filled with engaging team challenges and insightful instruction on classroom etiquette and AFJROTC expectations. As Wing Commander C/Sydney Turpin commented, “Orientation is a great way for new cadets to make friends and get to know upperclassmen… They learn all about JROTC while getting a head start on high school.
During Orientation, cadets were organized into flights under the guidance of their designated Flight Commander and Flight Sergeant. They received an introduction to the AFJROTC program, familiarized themselves with weekly routines, and learned what it truly means to be a cadet. Emphasis was placed on the AFJROTC Core Values: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do. Upperclassmen encouraged their peers to implement these principles and demonstrate them both within the program and in everyday life.
Over the first two days, new cadets participated in interactive team-building exercises designed to cultivate leadership, communication, problem-solving, and collaboration. We also introduced teams and certain events that annually happen every year to give the cadets a sense of the activities and what we do not just in the classroom but outside of school too. One notable activity, “PB&J,” challenged cadets to write detailed instructions for making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, which was a deceptively simple task that reinforced the importance of precision, communication, and teamwork.
A highlight of Orientation was the unit’s field trip to White Water Bay at Six Flags in Atlanta, Georgia, where cadets enjoyed water slides, wave pools, delicious food, and hanging out with friends. The journey back was filled with conversation and networking as new cadets built stronger connections with the upperclassmen.
As the 2025/2026 year begins, expectations remain high for the promising new cadets. These cadets are ready to embody AFJROTC’s core values and approach every task with teamwork, dedication, and leadership. As the program continues to shape future leaders, we look forward to watching them grow into responsible, communicative leaders and dedicated members of society.
