NJROTC Cadets Grow Through Discipline

By Chase Stone

News Reporter

NJROTC cadets Jayden Posey and Aniya Washington say the program’s structure, challenges, and strong sense of unity have helped them grow into confident, disciplined leaders.

Petty Officer Reed shows students how to properly do a push up. Photo by Jacorey Hopkins.

Uniform inspections are a major part of NJROTC life. Each Monday—along with days of major events and parades—cadets stand in full uniform for a detailed check. “It’s pretty much every single Monday,” Posey said. “We salute our PO, then we start our pledges, and he checks everything—our socks, posture, and every key detail.” Although the process can feel nerve-racking at first, Posey said cadets quickly get used to the expectations. The strap must be straight, the shirt crisp, the shoelaces tied in a bully knot, and the socks must be black. “If you wear any other colors, that’s points off,” he added.

Washington follows a similar preparation routine. Throughout the week, she keeps her uniform properly hung and ensures it includes a simple white crew-neck T-shirt—never a V-neck or long-sleeve shirt—along with long black socks and polished shoes. Hair must be slicked back and remain above shoulder length. After years in the program, she said, “Getting the uniform ready is not hard anymore.”

Both cadets agree that the program’s mental challenges match its physical demands. Cadets must memorize general orders, understand ranks and rates, and learn the chain of command—skills that require regular studying. Now an NS4, Washington said the academic rigor of

NJROTC strengthened her study habits in all her classes. Posey shared the same view and added that the program taught him discipline and time management. “I’m a pretty hard-headed kid,” he said, “but when I was put in my place a couple of times, it taught me discipline.”

Promotions in NJROTC are based strictly on performance, leadership, and dedication—not on time spent in the program. Washington noted that exceptional NS1s can outrank other NS1s and even some NS4s. Cadets earn their promotions through consistent effort and recognized contributions.​

The two cadets joined NJROTC for different reasons. Posey was inspired by his mother, a former ROTC captain, which sparked his fascination with the program. Washington joined after watching an inspiring middle school assembly. Despite different beginnings, both found a community that built their confidence and leadership abilities. Washington also balances dance with NJROTC, dividing her time to manage both commitments. Posey said one of his biggest motivators is seeing his improvement each week in uniform.

For both cadets, NJROTC is more than inspections and attire—it is a path to personal growth, accountability, and a supportive, family-like environment where hard work leads to meaningful results.