AFJROTC Hosts Annual Home Drill Meet by Aadhya Patel
The AFJROTC program hosted its annual Home Drill Meet on April 18 and brought together cadets from multiple schools to compete in various competitions. Teams competed in several categories, including regulation drill, inspection, and color guard performances. It was easy to tell how hard every unit had worked for it, and everyone looked sharp and professional. “The best part of the home drill meet were the skills and learning experiences I got. It helped to put myself into a real situation with team relationships and shared responsibility,” said a cadet, Charlie Morrissette. “I was stationed at concessions, and primarily dealt with handling the front.” The concessions area was a popular place to buy food, have lunch, and relax with friends. “The hardest part of my job was being able to handle all of the orders. They were flying in, but the commander and deputy kept it under control.”
As the host school, the cadets of Melbourne High School played a major role in organizing and participating in the event. “[My job was] PT runner to holder, [and I had to] count pushups and sit up as the holder, and check if there are blanks as the runner.” said Sharon Chen, a cadet that attended the home drill meet. “[The hardest part was] definitely counting the pushups and sit ups, some were moving way too fast and I couldn’t catch up!” said Chen. The weeks leading up to the drill meet required juggling numerous roles and responsibilities. “I’ve talked and learned a bunch of things and advice from peers,” said Chen.
By the end of the event, awards were presented to top performing teams and individuals across various categories. Regardless of placement, all cadets demonstrated commitment, respect, and professionalism. Cadets left the event with a stronger sense of pride and motivation for their units. As the day ended, anticipation already began building for next year’s drill meet, where cadets will return ready to improve and represent their units with honor.
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What’s Next? Cadets have practice after school to march for Pass-And-Review. Soon after the Home Drill Meet, everyone in AFJROTC jumped into preparing for the annual awards ceremony which will be happening on May 1st. “Preparing for home drill meet has been easier than preparing for pass and review.” said Sharon Chen. Photo by Aadhya Patel.