Newly established unit is only one in Texas and one of 14 nationwide
Corpus Christi ISD welcomed local, state and national officials as well as family members of 56 cadets as the district’s Veterans Memorial High School commemorated the official establishment of the state’s only U.S. Coast Guard JROTC unit.
The unit began with the new school year, under the direction of Senior Maritime Science Instructors Matt Gully and Michael O’Leary, led by school principal Scott Walker.
Rear Admiral Will E. Watson, Director, Governmental and Public Affairs for the U.S. Coast Guard, addressed the cadets and their families, praising them for being part of a “pioneering” inaugural group of leaders.
Corpus Christi Mayor Paulette Guajardo and CCISD Board President Don Clark also offered words of appreciation and encouragement for the students.
With the addition of the Coast Guard unit, five CCISD high schools offer JROTC programs. The district is also home to 13 schools with the prestigious Purple Star designation, signifying substantive support for military families.
“Corpus Christi is home to a large military community, and we are glad to serve military-connected students and their families,” said Superintendent Dr. Roland Hernandez. “This new JROTC unit is a true honor for our district and represents a unique leadership opportunity for our students.”