Baldwin High School NJROTC Shines at Annual Pass-In-Review Ceremony

The James A. Lunsford Gymnasium was filled with pride, precision, and patriotism on November 20 as Baldwin High School’s Navy Junior ROTC cadets took the floor for their annual Area Manager’s Inspection and Pass-In-Review Ceremony. Family members, district leaders, and distinguished guests gathered to witness one of the most anticipated events of the NJROTC year, a showcase of discipline, leadership, and the unwavering teamwork that defines the program.

The ceremony opened with the Processional and Entrance of Cadets, followed by the Cadet Creed and National Anthem. Guests then heard remarks from Dr. Rodney Tyson, Major, USA (Ret.) and Deputy Superintendent of Baldwin County Schools, and Mrs. Markeeta Clayton, Principal of Baldwin High School. The afternoon also featured an impressive Exhibition Drill Performance, recognitions from NJROTC instructors Dr. David Snow, Commander, USN (Ret.) and Chief Petty Officer Brian Finney, USN (Ret.), and an inspection and address by Dr. Matthew Jordan, Commander, USN (Ret.), NJROTC Area Nine Manager. But the heart of the day belonged to the cadets.

“They talk about it from the beginning of the school year," said Chief Petty Officer Brian Finney. For NJROTC instructor Brian Finney, days like this are more than ceremonial, they are transformational.“This ceremony is an annual part of our Area Manager’s Inspection,” he explained. “We’re inspected on cadet readiness, uniform and appearance, marching… but it’s also an opportunity to recognize our top performers and advancements for the year. It allows parents and distinguished guests to come out and visit. It’s something we do every year.”

Cadets prepare months in advance. From the very first weeks of school, the program emphasizes teamwork, accountability, and unity, values that come to life on the gym floor during Pass-In-Review. “We start preparing for it from the beginning of the school year,” Finney said. “We’re big on practice and teamwork. That’s part of our core values; accountability and teamwork. It’s great to see young people having this much discipline and self-control.”

Preparing Leaders — On the Field and Beyond

A key purpose of the Pass-In-Review is supporting students who aim to join the armed forces after graduation. Baldwin’s NJROTC program has a strong track record of helping cadets begin that journey.

“Last year we had seven join. The year before that we had eleven join different branches of the military,” Finney shared. “For those wanting to serve, NJROTC puts them ahead of the curve. From wearing the uniform to learning the discipline expected in boot camp, they already know what to expect.”

This year the unit hosts roughly 9 freshmen, with 18 first-year cadets, and around 58 cadets total. Chief Finney also highlighted several standout upperclassmen whose leadership held the ceremony together:

• Ethan Tavares, Commanding Officer (senior)

• Deasia Hurt, Executive Officer (junior)

• Ky'maya Grant, Command Master Chief (junior)

  
  

“These are my top three,” Finney said with clear admiration. “All of them have been with the program three or four years. Everything I need, they’re right there.”

A Tradition of Excellence

The Pass-In-Review Ceremony is not only an inspection, but a celebration of growth. From sharp salutes to coordinated drill movements, Baldwin’s cadets demonstrated the discipline, respect, and commitment to excellence that the NJROTC program instills.

And as parents and guests applauded from the stands, it was clear that these cadets aren’t just learning how to march.They’re learning how to lead, how to serve, and how to work together. Most importantly, they’re learning how to carry themselves with pride.

We congratulate our Baldwin High School NJROTC cadets, instructors, and leaders on an outstanding 2025 Pass-In-Review Ceremony. Your dedication inspires our entire Baldwin County community.