Pine-Richland/Mars Area U.S. Air Force JROTC (Junior Reserve Officers Training Corp) was selected as one of 387 units to receive the 2019-2020 Air Force JROTC Distinguished Unit Award.

The award recognizes units that have performed well above and beyond normal expectations; and, that have distinguished themselves through outstanding service to their school and community, while meeting the Air Force JROTC citizen development mission for America.

To earn the award, units have to meet several milestones throughout the school year, said Major Michael Morrison, instructor. Milestones included maintaining viability enrollment (100 cadets or more); accomplishing an average of more than 12 hours of community service per cadet; completing six or more Leadership Development Requirements; developing and executing six goals established by cadets; and more.

The objectives of the Air Force JROTC program are to educate and train high school cadets in citizenship and life skills; to promote community service; instill responsibility, character, and self-discipline through character education; and to provide instruction in air and space fundamentals.

Beginning with the 2018-2019 School Year, Mars Area and Pine-Richland school districts entered into a crosstown agreement to enable interested Mars Area High School students to participate in the Pine-Richland U.S. Air Force JROTC program. The program is open to all Mars Area High School students in Grades 9-12. 

For more information, contact Morrison at [email protected].