Every new cadet comes in with the same dream, to become the battalion superhero also known as the lieutenant colonel. But just as important as the question is the answer. Now there is no sure fire way of becoming battalion commander but we do have a guide that will help you get there. It is called “The Promotion Board”.

The promotion board is point system that is designed to evaluate which cadet is ready for what rank. It consists of multiple areas from the fields of academic knowledge to fitness and first aid. The promotion board is an easy way to help the senior leaders fairly and properly promote the new cadets. But hold on to your dreams because you or one of the ones you see around could be the next lieutenant colonel.  In order to get promoted there will always be a recommendation needed that goes through the chain of command and eventually gives any cadet their new rank.

-By C/CSM John

-I want to show the core that we can change from a baby up battalion to actual cadets running it. I want them to have a brand new experience with this battalion. It’s a new change for everyone and I want to make it right and firm.

2) How did you earn this rank?

-I’ve been in the program for 4 years and in the past I have watched past battalion commanders do their job. Participated in as much events as I have and helped out as much as I could to make the battalion better. I’ve always placed the core first rather than me and worked my way up the rank structure.

3) What interest you the most about JROTC and its Activities? Why?

-At first I thought the uniform was cool but as I progressed in the battalion I’ve grown interest in drill. I loved to see the team march in a block and stay in step, and I loved being yelled at during inspection. But the way they preformed was something that caught my eye and made me join.

4) As the highest rank in the Battalion what do you expect your fellow cadets to do for the core?

-I expect from them to perform in a professional manner and when something needs to be done it will be done. I want the job to be done as soon as possible and done right. Also instead of cadets running straight to the instructors I would like for them to ask the chain of command. So our duties as a team member all the way to the battalion commander we all do our job.

– By C/1Lt Caceres

-I feel really great about my new position; I feel like I can make an actual difference in staff work or even in the battalion. I’m trying to shape it in so it can become a good one.

2) What interest you the most about this job? Why?

-The part that I can interact with so many people and have the younger ones look up to me, I basically like it because it teaches me responsibility.

3) What kind of connection do you have between JROTC and your life?
-The connection between JROTC and my life is pretty neutral, everything is balanced and I can get work done in my life as well uphold my duties as an XO.

4) How did you earn this rank position?

-I earned my position because there was an available spot and because I know my 1st SGT and MAJ believed in me that I can do the job proficiently and adequately and that is why I got the job.

5) What message would you like to give your fellow cadets in & outside the core?

-Follow your instincts it’ll take you places and never stop caring for something until you know it’s done if it can be fixed it can be saved.

-By C/1Lt Caceres

The kids range from the ages of 2-19 years old, the most they have to pay is $30 a night, and if it is not possible they find a way to pay for the patient to get their care. “At first I felt nervous about going, but then I realized that I was doing a good deed with my peer, bringing smiles to the kids life.” says 1st year cadet Megan Verges.  It was another success for the Bulldog Battalion to raise the money for the kids in the Ronald McDonald House in a few weeks. The mission was a total success; we thank everyone involved in this holiday present.

-By C/CPT Koufalis

Now becoming one of the most difficult scholarships to get, the ROTC scholarship not only does it pay for your full college tuition, it gives you extra money for other essentials. St. Johns University Senior ROTC came to the classroom and discussed some of the requirements you need to have in order to qualify and receive this scholarship.

For those Juniors, Seniors and other underclassmen who wish to go for this scholarship you must have a score of a 900 on the SAT’s (math and reading combined), you must have a GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and no serious criminal record. The physical fitness test isn’t required until you receive the scholarship.

If you’re looking to find a way to get into college without having to pay a fortune for tuition make sure you apply for scholarships not just to one but to many and if you see this scholarship is right for you don’t hesitate to apply.

-By C/MAJ Corella

-By C/2Lt Checo

Beside our Battalion Commander, C/LTC Sanabria an army veteran marched along. There were many cadences called throughout the march to motivate the corps. At the parade there were other types of military units present. There were the Marines, Air Force, and the Coast Guard. Though Long Island City High School was the only Army battalion, the cadets were strong and roared through the streets.

This event may seem extremely tiring, but when the cadets are willing to devote themselves they make an impact! In the crowds there were many former cadets and staff from LICHS that cheered for the unit.

By: C/SFC Shamsundar

As they prepare for competition they also work hard as a team to help each other improving the events and exceed the qualifications needed to be on a team. The objective is to compete and win! Though our raider team is a new one, we plan on doing everything possible to bring a trophy back home. Like every other team, they practice after school and on the weekends to help enhance their strength. They also study first aid and practice setting up a Rope Bridge in a short amount of times as possible. Last but not least, they run 5 miles with backpacks full of equipment.

Our raider team will succeed and conquer their goal in winning their first competition for most of them being lead by our former raider that has competed Captain Garcia, Eric. Bulldog Raider Team keep up the good work!

By C/Maj Santana

Armed Side

This year the Armed Drill team has come back  better than ever! With just 2 people graduating  from last year, we have come back as a real team.  This year we are focusing on teamwork,  dedication, and motivation. By the end of every  practice the armed drill team is left with wanting  more. For motivation this year, we put a little  rivalry between Armed and Unarmed, by making  team motto’s, having competitions in the end of  practice like pt, exhibition & more. Abraham  Raflores and Jose Cabrera are the Armed Drill  Team Commanders. They work hard together to  make the team win every competition they go to.

Unarmed Side

This year Unarmed drill is starting off on an amazing foot, with strong leaders and an outstanding set of girls. Led by Maj Isabel Corella & Maj Kattia Santana, the Unarmed side is becoming a well disciplined team which is developing a strong base for upcoming years. With only 5 girls from last year team returning, the team is brand new & fresh. Every day, they learn the basics of drill in all aspects. They have become loyal to the team & give their very best to it as well. Experienced drill members help the new members on each command and try to create a comfortable place for them not to be scared or intimidated and feel like a family.

The drill team has overcome many obstacles from last year and is working on fund raising to pay for all their expenses and make The Sons & Daughters of Liberty the best! This team has no room for unmotivated cadets or little mistakes.

By C/2LT Checo & C/2LT Cely

-I was a JROTC Cadet back in High School and owe much of whatever success I have enjoyed in my life to my Army Instructor although he was not able to get through to me 100% of the time. He stepped in after my father died and had it not been for his efforts I would have made even bigger mistakes. When I was presented the opportunity to become an instructor it just felt right that I try and be like that for some Cadet going through some hard times like I did.

2) What was your proudest moment in your life?

-I have had many proud moments the proudest has yet to come.

3) Describe some of the challenges and responsibilities of being an L.I.C. A.I.

-Our Battalion is a very complicated organization, with the schedule the way it is and the complexity of trying to form a spirit of unity when many Cadets only see their class and don’t realize how many Cadets there are in the program and how active we are in our school and community.

4) What makes an outstanding JROTC Cadet?

-Desire, dedication and the willingness to be a part of a team. Selfless service when the battalion is more important than the individual.

5) How do you plan to improve the JROTC program in the coming years?

-We already have taken great steps in improving the Battalion. Most of the improvements have been initiated by the Cadets. That is what it is all about…pride and ownership of the Corps by the Cadets.

By C/SFC Sorrenti, Paula