Afjrotc Cadet Leadership Summary

Life as an AFJROTC cadet leader is very challenging. As cadet Wing Commander of our 215+ Cadet Wing, I had to address an ethical dilemma that almost destroyed our nationally recognized drill team. In the United States Military fraternization is extremely frowned upon because it will cripple the chain of command due to favoritism, and possibly the feeling of a false rank. In our AFJROTC unit relationships are discouraged between cadets as it might compromise, appear to compromise, or affect the integrity of the chain of command. Often when cadets perceive a promotion given to someone based, not on merit, but on their relationship with the leader, the entire cadre is affected and morale is deeply affected. When this occurs, our common goal of

As a result, the cadets learned a valuable lesson, embracing and cultivating a professional code of conduct. Although, some of my friendships were challenged, ultimately the entire team benefited. I practiced what I learned in my leadership camps, I continued to praise right behaviors and coach up behaviors that were weakening the team. I gave encouragement and recognition to those who understood that we needed to behave in a way that reflected the values, mission, and ethics of our military services. I learned that, even though this was high school, the same ethics and values were important and needed to be acknowledged and exemplified.
Of most benefit to me were the Air Force Core Values “Integrity First, Service before self, and Excellence in all we do”. Although very challenged, I was able to demonstrate mutual respect and professionalism to all, even those testing the limits of personal conduct. The year 2016 ended being the year our JROTC program gained national recognition for exhibition teams, and another year the program achieved distinguished unit with