In only its second year of existence, the Sam Rayburn High School JROTC program is turning heads on a state and regional level.

The Texan JROTC Battalion placed seventh out of 269 schools from Texas, New Mexico and Louisiana at the George C. Marshall Leadership Competition recently.

The students, led by Cadet Jennifer Maza, were tested over a variety of subjects that included principles of leadership, winning colors theory and application, and other academic areas.

Sam Rayburn JROTC instructor Lt. Col Alan Mooneyham said he is proud of his students’ accomplishments.

“The JROTC is not just about marching and wearing green uniforms,” he said. “Involvement is crucial for student success, so we try to offer a wide variety of extra-curricular activities, such as the George C. Marshall competition to appeal to anyone and everyone. The students in our program are the product of some great teacher-mentors at Rayburn, good families and lots of work.”

The school’s JROTC program continues to grow as more than 200 students are signed up to participate when the 2007-2008 school year begins. Sam Rayburn Principal Troy McCarley said the program was created in 2005 as another way for students to become involved and learn skills that will guide them to a pathway of success.

“Studies have shown that students who are involved in types of positive activities such as Junior ROTC do better in the classroom,” McCarley said. “Not all kids are interested in athletics or music, but this program provides something for everyone and provides them with the knowledge and skills they need for brighter futures.”

The program follows curriculum provided by the U.S. Army. Students learn about citizenship, develop leadership potential and logical thinking skills, maintaining good health and develop teamwork skills. In addition, the students become familiar with military history as it relates to America’s culture and understand the history, purpose and structure of the military services.

Although military in nature, students who participate in the program do not have to be considering going into the armed forces to become active in the JROTC. “The program is open to anyone who wants to be a part of it,” Mooneyham said.

Mooneyham said there is one important lesson that he wants his students to carry with them once they leave the program and graduate high school. “Discipline, Discipline, Discipline…it’s the key to succeeding in life,” he said.

The JROTC takes an active part in school activities, most especially having the Color Guard present the flags at home football games and special events.