Contact: Sammy McDavid
Nearly 1,000 Junior ROTC participants from 20 high schools in a four-state region are gearing up for a massive display of military skills Oct. 3 at Mississippi State University.
Organized for the second year by the faculty and cadets of Army ROTC at MSU, the Golden Triangle JROTC Drill Meet will take place 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at the Shira Field House and nearby athletic practice fields.
Interested members of the general public are welcome to view any or all events, which bring together students from Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, and Louisiana.
Last year's meet drew approximately 600 high school cadets.
"The United State Army sponsors Junior ROTC to teach citizenship, self-discipline, teamwork, and physical fitness," said Capt. Timothy P. Cassibry, assistant professor of military science. "In a time when this country needs more role models for youth, it is a program parents, students and local communities can look to for assistance."
In addition to providing an opportunity to compete against each other, drill meets afford participants a chance to get acquainted with peers from throughout the region.
"JROTC instructors that attended said last year's meet was one of the best in the area," Cassibry said. "They strongly encouraged us to continue as sponsor."
This year's competitive events include color guard reviews, physical fitness tests and a series of squad and platoon marching movements with and without rifles.
Also scheduled is a "knock-out drill," an individual competition that begins with as many as 250 cadets responding without mistake to a variety of commands. The last remaining cadet wins.
Trophies will be awarded for each event, as well as for the overall best effort.
For additional information, telephone Cassibry at (601) 325-1655.