by Phil Strand

Pictured, GYSGT Farley Simon, Senior Instructor, JCC, J. P. Elder Middle School; CPL Iris Hernandez, Commander of Cadets, JCC, J. P. Elder Middle School, holding the Grand Champion Trophy; CW4 Jeremiah Marshall, JCC Coordinator, FWISD

Middle school students have risen to new heights through the Junior Cadet Corps, a part of the Junior ROTC (JROTC), at J. P. Elder Middle School in Fort Worth. This has been accomplished through study, drills, community service, and competitive events.

A Winning Tradition

An outstanding program with positive results requires strong leadership. It began in 2002 under the direction of CW4 Jeremiah Marshall, US Army (ret.) who was the first instructor for this newly formed part of the JROTC, and who now serves as Coordinator. He helped the cadets bring home the Distinguished Trophy, awarded to the best unit in the Fort Worth ISD of the six schools who participated.
Following Marshall’s promotion to the district ROTC office, GYSGT Farley Simon, USMC (ret.) became the instructor in 2004. His 22 years as a Marine has helped set and maintain a high standard at the school. Looking as fit as a recruit just out of basic training, Simon has schooled the cadets in Marine Corps tradition and protocol while following the guidelines of the JROTC program. Marshall cited the leadership and overall “great job” by GYSGT Simon as a prime reason J. P. Elder Middle School has won the Distinguished Trophy the last two years in a row.

Dr. Carla Spaniel, Principal at J. P. Elder for three years, recognizes and appreciates what the JCC program brings in the way of discipline, self respect, and the development of leadership skills. She believes the one-on-one work by the instructors is a critical factor in the overall program success. It also fosters a love of country along with an understanding of protocols that are helpful=2 0to the cadets. Dr. Spaniel mentioned her support is mostly demonstrated by attendance at various events, and giving the program the flexibility to go on field trips and participate in activities away from the school.

Commander of Cadets

CPL Iris Hernandez, who will be in 8th grade this fall, became the Commander of Cadets (COC) in an impressive Change of Command and Awards Ceremony held on May 15, 2009, succeeding CPL Erika Rodriguez . Hernandez previously was the Assistant Commandant. She was also presented with the JROTC Director’s Award, and was one of three to receive the JCC Coordinator Award. Simon described her as “outstanding, the best.” She is a “straight A” student who had undergone rigorous competition, observation, and evaluation by both Simon and Marshall. Among other things, she is also in the Color Guard.

CPL Hernandez became interested in the JCC because a friend was enrolled. She soon became a class leader, and with hard work she kept getting promoted. CPL Hernandez acknowledged the COC is known throughout the school, and is expected to set a positive example. When in uniform she is easily identified by her distinctive gray leadership cord, and is the only cadet authorized to wear white slacks. Teachers know they can count on her. GYSGT Simon notes she has to visit all JCC classes every day, and follow the plan of the day that he provides. In his absence, she takes charge. The final interview for this position is done by Chief Marshall, in front of the other students. In this way, they know their next commander is well qualified to handle the job, and they respect her. All students immediately rise to their feet, and a chorus of “COC on Deck” echoes throughout a JCC classroom when she enters; they remain at attention until she issues the “Carry On” command.

Hernandez appreciates the privileges that come with the position, but noted a lot of responsibility is on her shoulders. For example, in the weeks leading up to the selection for the best JCC unit in all Fort Worth middle schools, cadets must practice every day from 4:30—6:00 p.m. every day. She even schedules Saturday practices on Saturday from noon—2:00 p.m. during the final few weeks. One of her goals for the upcoming school year is to have a “Military Ball,” something several other middle schools have done. She intends to join the Marines following her graduation from high school.

Setting the Stage for Success

GYSGT Simon notes the JCC is mirrored after the military. Before a class starts, the cadets emphasize “mission, motivation, and the honor code.” While still an instructor, CW4 Marshall recalled another teacher marveled at the discipline in his classroom. They are about the task of developing respectful individuals, but who also learn to perform at a high level. Every year there is stiff competition to determine which school will be named the most outstanding unit. Cadets are involved in both armed and unarmed drill, there is an academic challenge with questions like a Jeopardy board, and a final inspection. Things such as creativity, physical fitness, and color guard performance are also measured. Points are awarded in all categories, and competition is fierce. Simon noted the COC “wears me out” in the final days leading up to the unit inspection, making certain all details have been taken care of because she in essence she says “I will not lose the trophy under my watch.” This year his unit was trailing by 11 points going into the final inspection, but they still managed to win. With their success, J. P. Elder has become somewhat of a target, but in a positive respect, because this has aided in raising the level of performance at other schools as well. He identified the “grassroots leadership” of the COC and immediate staff as keys to running a successful program.
Developing Leaders

The Fort Worth ISD promotes a two day JROTC Leadership Camp at Sky Ranch the second week in March. About 30 cadets from each of the 11 middle schools attend. Though CW4 Marshall issues guidance to cadre, he reports the camp is really is run by the cadets to the point it is “almost on autopilot.” Marshall talks with the commanders from all the schools in advance, but because cadets are assigned to their respective units alphabetically, they must take orders from others they do not even know. Leaders really step out in this environment during games and events such as a confidence course with obstacles they must depend on each other to complete. Because of the success, the camp will be expanded to three days next year.

Community Service

Competitive events are significant, but cadets also complete community service for advancement. This occurs in a variety of venues. Included might be presenting the colors at the annual Memorial Day ceremony at the DFW National Cemetery or on Flag Day. GYSGT Simon also gets calls requesting a color guard at businesses, churches, or schools. Word of mouth advertising often leads to such performances. People are amazed at the precision and proficiency of these young cadets, often assuming they are much older.
Everyone affiliated with the JCC at J. P. Elder Middle School plays an important role in the development of these young cadets. Their role cannot be underplayed either, because they demonstrate an important dedication to duty, and a burning desire to excel. They are an impressive group.

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Gunny Farley Simon
817-740-4820