The Newton High Marine Corps Junior ROTC program is currently conducting its annual drill camp beginning Monday through July 18 at the school.
Sessions will run from 8 a.m. to noon each day.
The purpose of the camp is two-fold. First is to allow returning drill team members preparation for the upcoming drill season. Second is to screen first-year students who are interested in becoming members of Newton's award-winning drill team.
Returning students will work on perfecting the regulation and exhibition routines that earned numerous trophies in years past. They will also begin the process of training additional cadets on color guard movements to provide additional flexibility for what has become a very busy schedule of events each year.
Selected upperclassmen will also work with the ROTC instructors in training new students in regulation drill. The loss of 10 seniors from last year's squad will make the rapid training a top priority.
Those who show a knack for drill will be moved quickly into the varsity squad for both armed and unarmed drill. The fast learners will find themselves on the exhibition units, as well. We encourage any students who will be joining the MCJROTC program this year to attend the camp and be a part of this championship unit.
The drill season begins almost immediately with a warmup drill meet at Monroe High in late August. This is followed by a rapid succession of competitions beginning in Asheville, N.C., in late September.
By the end of November, Newton's drill team will have competed in at least three more meets.
In all, it entered eight drill meets last year, finishing in first place three times and as well as three third-place finishes.
Attendees should wear something cool and comfortable, including shoes that lace or at least fit snuggly. (Sandals and flip-flops are not good for marching). Each participant should also bring water and a snack.
For those interested in attending the drill camp, call the ROTC office at (770) 385-6411 or send e-mail to stanford.richard@newton.k12.ga.us.
Compiled by Jason Murdock, News sports editor.
