On November 11th Veterans Day, Long Island City HS JROTC was honored to march in the Veterans Day Parade. We all met at the school at 7:30am and were on our way by 8:00am. When we got there, there were a number of different schools and many veterans. At 12:00pm we were all set to march. We started marched to march on 5th avenue and 25th street.  The parade coordinator gave us the honor in letting us march with a garrison flag. About 40 cadets were holding the flag the whole mile, the cadets had to fight strong winds, but still the flag never touched the floor. The cadets were motivated by singing motto’s and cadences. We were led by the company commanders, battalion commander, staff, and the color guard. The parade ended at 1:30 on 5th avenue 56th street. By 2:00 we were back at the school feeling more proud than ever. When we arrived at the school we took a battalion photo. It was an honor to march for the people who fought for our freedom and we are grateful for everything they have done for this country. Our cadets were very proud of marching in this parade and they hope to be part of it for.

-By C/2Lt Checo

HOOAH! The sound of motivated cadets rang through the streets of Astoria on October 10th.The Columbus Day parade is one of the parades annually done at JROTC in our Bulldog Battalion. Cadets marched from Kaufman Astoria Studios on 34ave and 36 Street to Columbus Circle at 31street and Astoria Boulevard.

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 our LIC Bulldog Battalion Raider Team prepares for their upcoming raider competition, they work hard to improve their abilities to do better in the events that will have to be accomplished in the competition.

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

1) What made you decide to become a JROTC Army Instructor?

-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