CAIRO, GA (WALB) - The mission of the Navy Junior ROTC is to instill the value of citizenship, service, and responsibility into high school students.
At one south Georgia high school, that mission is in jeopardy.
Due to low enrollment, the Cairo High School NJROTC program was recently selected by the U.S. Navy for disestablishment. "I think that's a very very unwise decision. One because of the tremendous impact this unit has on these young people, on this school, on this community, and of course our state and our nation," said Congressman Sanford Bishop.
Congressman Bishop says after he heard the news, he pleaded his case to the Secretary of the Navy as to why the program should be saved. "It is our hope that we will be successful. That this program will continue because it does so much good and it brings so much pride to this community and it certainly enhances the future of our nation and our military leadership."
Congressman Bishop says the Navy is reconsidering their decision. He's not sure when they'll let him know what they decide.
Bishop addressed the cadets at Cairo High School Tuesday after they had an inspection by a Naval representative. "Honor, courage, and commitment I think are exemplified here. They are good, solid character values that I think this program instills into these young people and I'm very proud," said Bishop.
Cairo High School NJROTC representatives say this was the first time in 12 years the program has been put on probation due to low enrollment.
They say although programs usually have at least one year to correct the program, Cairo High School was not given that opportunity.
The Navy determined that due to budget concerns, 29 Junior ROTC programs throughout the country had be cut.
If the Cairo High program is shut down, it will be at the end of this school year.
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