JROTC make presentation to Brigade inspectors and to KISD staff. Photo by Juan Diego Vazquez-Cruz The Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps at H.M. King High School remains an Honor Unit with Distinction, the highest rating possible for an inspection by Headquarters Fifth Brigade, U.S. Army Cadet Command. H. M. King and Kingsville ISD also received the highest ratings possible for support of the program.

The cadets’ score of 584 out of 600 sets a new H.M. King record. Cadets and the program receive scores for command briefing, cadet inspections, drill and ceremony, curriculum, operations and training, supply accountability, and public relations. Being an Honor Unit with Distinction allows Sr. Army Instructor LTC Crites to make appointment nominations for cadets to the five military academies. This is an excellent alternative opportunity for cadets unable to secure a congressional nomination.

“Congratulations to the JROTC cadets, LTC Crites, SFC Guerra, and Principal Gonzalez for this remarkable accomplishment. The JROTC program is a definite benefit for our young people’s future,” Emilio Castro, Superintendent of Schools said.

Brigade inspectors scored the campus and district at the highest level for several reasons. Inspectors also mentioned that H.M. King has one of the longest periods of retaining instructors. LTC Crites and Army Instructor SFC Guerra say they remain in KISD because they have a good, fair contract, a supportive principal, and solid support from the district for technology, maintenance, and finance. Inspectors also approve of the funding structure for the JROTC program.