AUSA Suncoast Sponsored ROTC Programs

Army ROTC is one of the most demanding and successful leadership programs in the country. The training a student receives in Army ROTC teaches leadership development, military skills and career training. Courses take place both in the classroom and in the field and are mixed with normal academic studies. Additional summer programs, such as Jump School, may also be attended. Upon completion, an Army ROTC graduate is awarded officer status in the Army.

Cadet of the Year

The Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) is a federal program sponsored by the United States Armed Forces, based in high schools across the United States and United States military bases across the world. The purpose of JROTC is “to prepare high school students for responsible leadership roles while making them aware of the benefits of citizenship.” In Hillsborough County Public Schools, there are 27 JROTC programs in high schools and career centers across the district, of which there are ten Army programs, nine Navy programs, seven Air Force programs, and one Marine program. Our chapter works closely with JROTC leadership from the local school system to support JROTC, and our own JROTC Director, COL Sam Taylor, USA Ret. is the former head of JROTC programs for the schools system.

Once a year, the top ten cadets chosen from 5200 cadets in HCPS are honored at an event that celebrates and recognizes their distinguished service records and commitment to JROTC. Each JROTC program selected their top overall cadet to represent their program in an appearance before a Selection Board.

To the 10 top JROTC cadets of Hillsborough County , our chapter presents scholarship checks in the amount of $300 per cadet.