Platoons formed in tight formation in the cafeteria. Camera flashes sprout from the crowd filled with parents of ROTC cadets. Cadets stand ready to receive their ribbons in hopes of becoming promoted to a higher rank.

“This event is special,” senior chief Kyle Hammitt said. “Because it helps recognize our incoming freshmen for our seventh annual ceremony.”

In a new method of showing how cadets thrive in the unit, Chief David Ysaguirre and Commander Rick Hamblet decided to create a cadet of the month. This year, third platoon commander Demetrius Patterson was thrilled to hear that one of his cadets, freshman Henderson Rhakiah received the first cadet of the month award.

“It was cool,” Petty Officer Third Class Patterson  said. “I talked to her about how to be successful and [how to] be better. She was already awesome. There’s always that cadet that is just boss, and she is an extremely natural cadet.”

Since this is the first time the award has been given, many cadets are striving to become the next cadet of the month. For cadets, the privilege of receiving this award comes with few perks. The cadets who receive the award are allowed to wear an aiguillette cord that distinguishes them from from other cadets.

“I feel very privileged,” seaman apprentice Rhakiah said. “For me, to be the first cadet is an honor.”

Cadets respect their new Chief and Commander and their new methods for promoting the unit as a more noticeable and respected NJROTC program. 

“This is a better program in itself,” Rhakiah said. “We have a great commander and chief. They push us to do better and strive to do so.”