Kingsley Naval ROTC Fall Updates

Unit Invited to March in National Memorial Day Parade

Kingsley High School’s Naval Junior Officer’s Reserve Training Corps (NJROTC) has been invited to march in the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington, D.C. on Monday, May 25, 2026. 

Just one ROTC per state is invited.

Kingsley’s 65 cadets are now fundraising to attend and participate in the nation’s tribute to fallen veterans and the heroes who continue to serve our country.

The National Memorial Day Parade is a three hour procession that marches along the National Mall. The patriotic event features 10,000 people from all 50 states, commemorating service members from several wars and conflicts.

Read more here!

Students Host Fundraiser for Washington DC Parade Trip

This fall, GySgt Barr and his cadets hosted a can drive and car wash to raise money to send their unit to Washington DC in May to march in the National Memorial Day Parade.

If you would like to support their fundraising efforts, email GySgt Barr at mbarr@kingsleyschools.org.

Special thanks to the Cherryland VFW for a generous donation to the program!

Color Guard Welcomes Veterans Home at TVC

The Kingsley High School NJROTC provided the Color Guard at Cherry Capital Airport for the Honor Flight Welcome Home ceremony. More than 70 Michigan veterans who served in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, visited Washington DC to visit memorials in their honor. Hundreds of supporters and dozens of flags were there to greet them upon their arrival. 

NJROTC Cadets Recognized at Pinning Ceremony

KHS staff, students, and community members celebrated cadets during a Military Pinning Ceremony.

Eighth grade and high school cadets were pinned by local veterans, service members, and first responders.

“When veterans or mentors perform the pinning, it highlights the passing of knowledge and values from one generation of service members to the next," said Gunnery Sergeant Barr.

The ceremony celebrated the cadets' achievement, growth, and the transition to greater responsibility. It honors the hard work, dedication, and leadership each service member or cadet has demonstrated to earn their new rank.

GT Sheriff’s Marine Unit Takes Cadets to the Water

ROTC students recently trained with the Grand Traverse Sheriff’s Department Marine Unit on Arbutus Lake to learn about maritime law enforcement operations and water safety. Cadets rode on the patrol and rescue vessel, and interacted with deputies who specialize in marine operations. They also drove the ROV underwater rescue drone. Thank you so much to Deputy Roelofs and the Marine Division for taking our students out on such an engaging field trip.

Cadets Praised by Service Academy Board

"Three of our cadets, Braden Marsh (left), Aiden Hunt (not pictured), and Isaiah Cosgrove (right), appeared before Congressman Jack Bergman’s Service Academy Board in hopes of earning a nomination to one of the Service Academies.

The cadets reported that the four-member board, composed of retired Field Grade Officers, could not stop praising the professionalism, confidence, and bearing of our Kingsley JROTC students. Shortly after, I received two separate emails from senior members of the board echoing those same sentiments.

Our cadets continue to step up and stand out in every way, representing our school and community with excellence. Our Cadets continually show what right looks like. You should all be as proud as I am of them, and please let them know, outstanding job!" -GySgt Barr

Students Participate in Veteran's Day Service

The Kingsley Naval ROTC presented the colors at the Veteran's Day Ceremony at Veteran's Park. The ceremony featured remarks from local veterans and leaders, including family of Sgt. Justin Hansen. Students Levi Sterk and Mary Bauer played Taps. They also served local veterans during a special luncheon at The Rock in downtown Kingsley.

Cadets Advance to Second Round of National Academic Competition

Congratulations to the following Cadets for advancing to the Second Round of the Armed Forces National Academic JLAB Competition: Katelynn Leatherman, Collin McCoy, Andrew Gilde, Leyna Green, Fox Springsteen, Leah Andrews, Skylar Steel, Kolby Dunslager, Jocelin Glover, and Sophia Doherty.

A special shout-out as well to Alpha Team Captain Anna Bauer and Bravo Team Captain Braden Marsh for their leadership and dedication.

These cadets outperformed over 2,000 teams nationwide to earn their spot in Level 2. They will compete in the National Qualifier on February 12 for the opportunity to represent Kingsley in Washington, D.C. at Academic Nationals.

ROTC Begins Marksmanship Training

Students are practicing their sharpshooting skills in hopes of earning a spot to compete at a National NJROTC competition.

Outstanding work, Stag Battalion—stay sharp and stay hungry! To learn more about the program visit https://www.kingsleyschools.org/blog/categories/njrotc or email GySgt Barr at mbarr@kingsleyschools.org.