Marion High School JROTC recently completed a promotion board for cadets seeking to advance in the ranks to either sergeant or staff sergeant. At the conclusion, junior Damarie Weaver (pictured here) was named Cadet of the Quarter, joining the ranks of previous cadets recognized as the best to appear before the board.

“Cadet Weaver has made significant improvement this year within JROTC,” said retired Command Sgt. Maj. Jon Smith, the JROTC program’s Army Instructor. “He has worked hard and sought opportunities for leadership positions. With his promotion we will be expecting big things from him.”

The promotion boards are led by the senior ranking cadet non-commissioned officers. Each cadet is quizzed on their knowledge of JROTC subjects and their ability to maintain their military bearing (composure). The subject matter for the board covers physical fitness training, military drill and ceremony, uniform wear and appearance, along with other general information.

“I spent a lot of time studying for this board,” Weaver said. “I was really nervous going into the board because I really wanted to get promoted so I could have more responsibility next year in JROTC. It felt really good to find out that I was the top cadet this cycle.”

JROTC is a leadership development course in which cadets are expected to seek advancement through the rank structure.  Passing the sergeants and staff sergeants board is a big hurdle for cadets seeking to advance.

“Attending a board is very intimidating for a cadet,” Smith said. “These boards are a great way for cadets to learn to perform under pressure similar to what they might experience in a job interview. Many cadets gain self-confidence after the successful completion of a board.”

The JROTC department conducts a promotion board two to three times a semester. The Cadet of the Quarter has their photo on display and is appropriately entitled so all will know of the honor they have received.

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