What do high school military programs look like?

Hey friends, I've been pondering about joining the military program at school. I'm curious, what kind of activities do they usually conduct? How would participating in it prepare me for a potential future in the military?

High school military programs, often referred to as Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC), offer a host of activities to familiarize students with military customs, traditions, and training. These activities can be quite varied, but there are some common themes.

Instruction: A significant aspect of these programs is classroom instruction, providing the foundational knowledge about military history, customs, and traditions, along with an understanding of military branches, roles, and missions.

Physical Training: An essential component of any military-based program is physical training. This could include drills, running, and exercises similar to those conducted in basic training in the military.

Leadership Training: The programs incorporate leadership development activities where students learn the essentials of being a leader, like teamwork, discipline, responsibilities, and decision-making skills.

Citizenship: They also focus on shaping better citizens by stressing community service, engaging students in various philanthropic activities such as food drives, clean-ups, and events for veterans.

Drill Competitions: Cadets are given the opportunity to partake in drill competitions, which not only instills discipline but also fosters camaraderie and team spirit.

Camps and Field Training: Some programs offer field training and camps where students get hands-on experience in navigation, orienteering, and survival skills.

Enrolling in a high school military program could serve as a stepping stone into a future military career. It familiarizes you with military life and expectations, providing basic military skills and a solid foundation for discipline, leadership, and teamwork. Many program graduates go on to become military officers, while others use the skills learned to succeed in civilian life. It's crucial to note, however, that participation in high school military programs does not obligate students to enlist in the military after graduation.