Courtesy Photo | Retired Maj. Brian R. Griffing, senior Marine instructor for Lejeune High School's...... read more read more
CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. — The Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program at Lejeune High School, a Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA) school serving children of U.S. military families, has been named a Naval Honor School for the 2024-25 school year, placing it among the top 20% of JROTC units in the country — a distinction it has earned consistently in recent years.
This elite designation recognizes the program's excellence in areas such as inspections by commanding generals, enrollment numbers, community service hours, participation in school activities and cadet achievements, including scholarships. The honor underscores a strong track record of success for the unit amid ongoing educational demands, particularly in a military community where such programs resonate deeply.
"Being designated a Naval Honor School carries distinct benefits for cadets seeking to enlist after high school, applying for ROTC scholarships and/or service academy appointments," said retired Maj. Brian R. Griffing, the program's senior Marine instructor. "This designation is a testament to the hard work, discipline, and commitment of our cadets ... they have shown outstanding leadership and dedication to both their academic and extracurricular pursuits."
Lejeune High's cadets have logged extensive community service, from local projects to leadership exercises and competitions, building a foundation that extends beyond the classroom. Principal Dr. Todd Carver praised the achievement as a reflection of the program's role in developing "future leaders of character and service," noting it opens doors to service academies and boosts visibility in military circles.
Adding to the program's accolades, Cadet Major Luke Arocha recently earned the United States Marine Corps Legion of Valor Bronze Cross for Achievement for 2025 — the highest individual distinction for an MCJROTC cadet worldwide. Arocha was one of only 14 recipients selected this year from 244 MCJROTC programs globally, recognized for outstanding leadership potential in one cadet per region. The award, presented by the Legion of Valor — a fraternal organization of recipients of the nation's top combat valor medals — highlights exceptional JROTC cadets across branches since 1951.
At the awards ceremony, Maj. Griffing emphasized the honor's prestige. "Being chosen for this esteemed award is a testament to Cadet Arocha’s remarkable accomplishments and the high standards he has set for himself," he said. "As a recipient of the Legion of Valor Bronze Cross, he becomes a part of a distinguished group of young leaders who have demonstrated exceptional commitment and capability."
Nominations for the Bronze Cross require a rigorous review process, starting with senior instructors and advancing through multiple levels to MCJROTC headquarters, underscoring Arocha's dedication within the program and community.
The recognition comes amid growing evidence that JROTC programs like Lejeune's play a vital role in boosting students' current academic performance while paving the way for long-term career success. Research shows participation in JROTC correlates with higher graduation rates, improved attendance and fewer disciplinary issues, fostering discipline and time management skills that enhance focus in core subjects like math and science. A RAND Corporation study of Army JROTC found that full participation throughout high school led to better in-school outcomes, including reduced suspensions and stronger academic engagement, which can translate to higher GPAs and test scores. Principals and educators often credit the program's structured environment with instilling self-esteem and personal responsibility, qualities that help students excel academically by promoting accountability and a sense of accomplishment in daily tasks.
For future careers, JROTC equips teens with transferable skills in leadership, teamwork and ethics that benefit both military and civilian paths. Cadets completing at least two years qualify for advanced enlistment ranks, such as E-2 or E-3, providing a head start in military service with higher pay and faster promotions. The same RAND analysis linked JROTC involvement to improved military career outcomes, including higher retention and performance for those who enlist. Even for non-military pursuits, the program builds resumes through career exploration, STEM-focused activities and portfolios showcasing achievements, preparing students for college, workforce entry or entrepreneurship. Studies from institutions like Liberty University highlight how JROTC's emphasis on character and real-world skills boosts confidence and readiness for postsecondary opportunities.
At Lejeune High, the impact is tangible: Last year's graduates secured multiple ROTC scholarships, a U.S. Naval Academy appointment and several military college awards. Across the DoDEA Americas region, such scholarships and academy slots nearly tripled in the 2024-25 school year compared to the prior one, signaling broader regional gains.
As programs like this continue to earn accolades — from unit distinctions to individual honors like Arocha's — they serve as a model for how structured extracurriculars can shape resilient, capable young adults ready to lead in any arena.
DoDEA operates as a field activity of the Office of the Secretary of War. It is responsible for planning, directing, coordinating, and managing prekindergarten through 12th-grade educational programs for the Department of War. DoDEA operates 161 accredited schools in 9 districts in 11 foreign countries, seven states, Guam, and Puerto Rico, serving over 67,000 military-connected students. DoDEA Americas operates 50 accredited schools across two districts on 16 military installations, including Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard bases in seven states, Puerto Rico and Cuba. Committed to excellence in education, DoDEA fosters well-rounded, lifelong learners, equipping them to succeed in a dynamic world.
| Date Taken: | 11.13.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 11.20.2025 08:26 |
| Story ID: | 551685 |
| Location: | CAMP LEJEUNE, NORTH CAROLINA, US |
| Hometown: | CAMP LEJEUNE, NORTH CAROLINA, US |
| Web Views: | 21 |
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This work, DoDEA High School JROTC Earns Prestigious Naval Honor School Designation Amid Cadet Honors, by Michael ODay, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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