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Berlin, Ocean Pines News Worcester County Bayside Gazette Logo Berlin, Ocean Pines News Worcester County Bayside Gazette

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Decatur NJROTC program seeks donations

By Kara Hallissey, Staff Writer

(Oct. 19, 2017) The Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC) boosters at Stephen Decatur High School hope to raise up to $18,000 to help expand and provide incentives for new students to join the program. “It is important for the community to understand the goal is not to act as a recruiting tool [for the military], but to give these kids leadership and ethics skills, enhancing their ability to succeed in college and work,” Commander Steve Sisk said. “If they have the benefit to move on in the military, all the better.” In addition, the program teaches fellowship and naval historical lessons through trips and activities. Funds will also provide scholarships for cadets. Recently, students in the program went to Norfolk, Virginia to tour an aircraft carrier and submarine. “We want to build up the program and offer more to students participating,” Sisk said. “The [boosters] program needs to be ongoing. We can grow and offer scholarships for kids, ROTC college units and workmanship programs [and] send out information to parents.” Currently, 66 students are participating in the NJROTC program at Stephen Decatur High School and there is just $45 in the bank account, he said. The Navy helps with funding when at least 100 students are enrolled. The school lost funding a few years ago, although the county makes a small contribution each year, Sisk said. Program volunteers have drafted letters for area veteran groups, nonprofits and businesses asking for donations. “We hope all kinds of folks make contributions,” Sisk said. “We are trying to grow the program and make it more attractive to students.” Individual donations can be sent to: SDHS NJROTC at 9913 Seahawk Road, Berlin, Maryland, 21811. On Monday, Oct. 23, from 4-8 p.m., 50 percent of proceeds at Chipotle on Ocean Gateway in West Ocean City will be donated to the Stephen Decatur High School NJROTC. Tell the cashier you are supporting the cause by showing the flyer, which can be found on Facebook by searching “Stephen Decatur High School NJROTC.”