JROTC meet gives high school students leadership skills

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Twenty teams came to Purdue University's Armory Saturday in hopes they wouldn't skip a step. The university's ROTC hosted its 40th Junior ROTC drill meet.

High school teams from around the Midwest work all year to perfect their routines. They all have the ultimate goal in mind.

"They train annually for competitions all across the United States," Purdue ROTC Master Sgt. Kevin Cook said. "They're trying to culminate in the national competitions that take place in places like Daytona Beach."

"I think it's really great to have the opportunity to bring together schools from not only all over Indiana, but all over the Midwest," Purdue ROTC Cadet Alexander Master said. "To get to bring them in for an event like this is really cool."

The event was planned entirely by Purdue ROTC cadets. Competing teams had a list of points to hit for the judges.

"[Judges are looking at] timing, precision, commands and innovation," Cook said.

Although there will be winners and losers at the meet, many agree all teams get the same benefits from competing as cadets.

"It opens their eyes to discipline and leadership not only in the military, but in their community as well," Cook said.

"Not everyone commissioned from here will go to active duty," Master said. "There will be reserves and National Guard officers. We really want to develop a sense of community with our cadets."

The event started with just eight teams 40 years ago. Now 12 teams stronger cadets hope the event will continue to grow.