Cadet Handbook
Cadet Handbook
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER SUBJECT
Congratulations on your decision to enroll in the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer
Training Corps (AFJROTC) program.
New Jersey 20091st AFJROTC Group was established at Vineland High School
in July of 2009 by agreement between the Vineland Public School System and
the United States Air Force.
The standards in this guide support the leadership and personal development
objectives of the AFJROTC program. It contains policy guidance, requirements,
and rules of conduct for you, an AFJROTC cadet at Vineland High School. Study
this guide thoroughly. You are responsible for its entire content.
The Aerospace Science Courses introduce the historical, scientific, and technical
aspects of the aerospace environment. Leadership education provides
experience to develop discipline, responsibility, communication skills, and good
citizenship. Leadership education also includes wearing the Air Force Junior
ROTC uniform, learning and practicing Air Force customs and courtesies,
participation in drill and ceremonies, following instructions and leading others as
a member of the New Jersey 20091st Fighting Clan.
1. Strengthen character.
2. Develop informed Students.
3. Understanding the role of the citizen and the citizen soldier.
4. Familiarize the students with the Aerospace Age.
5. Motivate students toward Aerospace Careers.
AFJROTC OBJECTIVES
Observe correct military customs, courtesy, and conduct at all time. This conduct
will reflect credit upon themselves, their parents/guardians, the AFJROTC Unit
and Vinland High School.
The basis of Leadership within the Cadet Corps is trust, integrity, and mutual
respect. AFJROTC cadets should conduct themselves in an ethical and
honorable manner at all times. The foundation of the Cadet Honor Code is
"cadets will not lie, cheat, or steal, nor tolerate anyone that does".
The ceremony in which a cadet officially becomes a member of the Cadet Corps
is the administering of the Cadet Honor Code. This Code encourages a high
degree of personal honor, self-reliance; development of leadership skills
associated with integrity and develops respect for authority.
The SASI or ASI will administer the Cadet Honor Code to the assembled Cadet
Corps.
I, (cadet states his/her full name), have chosen to be a cadet in the United
States Air Force Junior ROTC program. In doing so, I pledge allegiance to
the United States of America. I will faithfully follow the Cadet Honor Code,
which states that: "I WILL NOT LIE, CHEAT, OR STEAL. I WILL NOT
TOLERATE THOSE WHO DO." I will strive to be a productive citizen and
uphold the constitution and our way of life.
Violation of the Cadet Honor Code may be grounds for dismissal from the
Cadet Corps.
CHAPTER THREE - ADMISSION / TRANSFER OF CADETS / SPECIAL
STUDENTS STATUS / DISENROLLMENT
CADET RESPONSIBILITY: Each cadet must agree to abide by the rules and
instructions of this AFJROTC Unit and accept responsibility for the proper care
and maintenance of their uniform, textbooks, and school/AFJROTC equipment
before they can become a member of the Cadet Corps.
Cadets who violate VHS rules (Vineland High School Student Handbook) or
Cadet Guide may meet a Cadet Disciplinary Board. The Disciplinary Board
recommends to the SASI/ASI discipline options ranging from a warning to
removal from the Cadet Corps.
The following AFJROTC violations may result in the listed disciplinary actions by
the Cadet Disciplinary Board.
1. Any cadet failing to wear the uniform on scheduled uniform days (normally
every Thursday) five times during the academic semester may result in
removal from the AFJROTC program. Make-up day (the following school
day) is after each scheduled uniform day.
2. Wearing the uniform improperly or not wearing the uniform for the entire day,
during scheduled uniform days will result in a loss of activity and/or academic
points for that uniform day.
3. Fighting in uniform may result in the immediate removal from the AFJROTC
program.
4. Profanity and Harassment of any sort is unacceptable.
1. Will not have been suspended, had three or more office referrals, nor has any
unpaid fines. Will not have been expelled or placed in Alternative School.
2. Must be passing (NO GRADE BELOW 65) in all of their classes.
1. When the tardy bell rings the Flight Commander/Sergeant will call the flight to
the position of attention and conduct the Pledge of Allegiance.
2. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, the Instructor will check the roll and report
attendance on the daily attendance form. Flight Commander/Sergeant will
make any announcements about on-going activities.
3. The Instructor will subtract daily points for cadet misbehavior during the
period.
4. The instructor will always start and finish the class instruction period.
5. At the end of the Class Period, the instructor will tell the Flight Commander to
dismiss the class after the classroom is in a clean and neat manner.
1. There are 1,500 points available each 9 weeks. AFJROTC uses the Vineland
High School grade scale to determine your letter/numeric grade. The
following factors affect your grade:
a. Attendance and Flight Points. This is worth 500 points or 1/3rd of your
grade. You earn 10 points daily for attendance and exhibiting
appropriate behaviors. This includes being prepared for class.
b. Quizzes and tests are worth 100 points. There will be five quizzes,
each worth 20 points.
c. One oral and written presentation worth 200 points.
d. Two Drill and Ceremonies evaluations, which are performance and
academic, based.
e. Weekly uniform grade. Wear the proper uniform at least 70 percent of
the uniform days.
None compliance earns a GRADE NO HIGHER THAN 65 (D-) for the
nine weeks.
f. 1 – 5 Leadership evaluations. Assessment of your leadership and
effort of your team.
g. Two Aerospace Academic Tests over classroom material.
Total Attendance Quiz Writing D&C Uniform Leadership AEROSPACE
Possible Flight TOTAL & Written Inspections Exercise
Points Points Oral Pres Performance TESTS
Q1 -Q5 TEST WEEKLY
Event 20 points 100 100 20 20 100
1500 500 100 200 200 200 100 200
2. Your performance for each 9 weeks and Semester is based on total points earned. Over
half of your grade, attendance, behavior, and uniform wear are totally under your control. So,
if you mess up a quiz or test, do not worry. Do your best and you can do well!
CHAPTER FIVE - AFJROTC ACTIVITIES / FIELD TRIPS
Co-curricular activities are activities within the Cadet Corps that add interest and
prestige to the Corps. Participation in Co-curricular activities is a privilege, not a
right. You may participate in one or more of these programs. Some of these are
team activities and your team members rely on you. You may lose the privilege
of participation if you have two or more unexcused absences from practice.
2. COLOR GUARD - an elite group of Cadets that have the honor of presenting
and/or posting the national and state colors at important school and community
programs and athletic events. Considerable time and effort is required to
become a member of this group, but the honor more than compensates for the
effort expended. This unit also participates in Color Guard competitions.
3. DRILL TEAM - these cadets have a chance to sharpen and polish the basic
drill skills learned in ROTC to a fine edge. Members practice learning various
intricate military and ceremonial drill movements. Teamwork and camaraderie
are all parts of the critical element need for the success of the team. Team
members must be able to travel to competitions throughout the year as well as
perform exhibitions for the local community.
One Flight earns the honor of HONOR FLIGHT each semester. One Flight earns
OUTSTANDING FLIGHT of the year. The following factors designate the BEST
flight:
2. Flights designated as “Honor Flight" will have their flight picture placed on the Cadet
Bulletin Board. Each of the flight members will be awarded an AFJROTC Outstanding Flight
Ribbon, which will be worn on the uniform.
CHAPTER SEVEN – CADET AWARDS AND DECORATIONS
Ribbon and
Medal
Air Force Recognizes the outstanding second-year (in a 3-year program) or third-
Association year cadet (in a 4-year program).
Air Force The recipient must demonstrate outstanding qualities in military
Sergeants leadership, discipline, character, and citizenship.
Association
American Rank in the top 10% of the high school class and top 25% of their AS
Legion class. Demonstrated leadership qualities.
Scholastic
American Officer potential participate in student activities capacity for responsibility,
Veterans adaptability, and maintenance of high personal standards.
Daedalian This annual award recognizes one outstanding third-year cadet who
Association demonstrates an understanding and appreciation of patriotism, love of
Award country, and service to the nation.
Daughters of Demonstrate leadership qualities and actively participate in student
the American activities.
Revolution
Military Order Have a positive attitude toward AFJROTC and country, hold a leadership
Of the Purple position in the cadet corps and be active in school and community affairs.
Heart Award
Military Order An outstanding cadet who has committed to continue the aerospace
Of World Wars science programs the following school year.
National An outstanding cadet, in the top 25% of their academic class, who
Sojourners encourages and demonstrate ideals of Americanism and has a
demonstrate potential for leadership.
Reserve Have attributes of initiative, judgment, and self-confidence. Demonstrates
Officers the highest personal and ethical standards and strong positive
Association convictions.
Scottish Rite Each cadet must contribute the most to encourage Americanism by
participation in extracurricular activities or community projects.
Sons Of The Recognizes an outstanding second-year cadet in a 3-year program or
American third-year cadet in a 4-year program.
Revolution
The Retired Recognizes outstanding second-year cadet (third-year cadet in a 4-year
Officers program) who shows exceptional potential for military leadership.
Association
Veterans Of An outstanding cadet who possesses strong positive personal attributes.
Foreign Wars Demonstrates patriotism as a member of the color guard or drill team and
actively promote Americanism.
Tuskegee An outstanding cadet who participates in over 50% of unit service
Airmen programs.
1. The USAF loans all uniform items and equipment items to you. These items remain the
property of the Air Force. Each item of your uniform and all equipment MUST be
accounted for at all times. This is your RESPONSIBILITY, not your PARENTS or
FRIENDS!
2. Each cadet will be required to sign a Custody Receipt form for all uniform items, books
and/or any other military equipment at the time of issue. From that time on, the uniform
and other items becomes your personal responsibility. If you lose it or it is destroyed or
damaged, you WILL be required to pay for it. The cost of the entire issue is approximately
$375.00. You must pay the current price for items missing or destroyed.
3. All items (except shoes) are to be returned upon completion of each school year. A
cleaning deposit of $25.00 pays for end of year cleaning and normal repair. This is much
cheaper than if you had to pay on your own. Each cadet will receive one complete issue
of clothes and accessories.
5. SUGGESTIONS
a. Keep up with your uniform items
b. Be alert for uniform items or equipment misplaced by other cadets. Return them to
the AFJROTC instructors.
c. DO NOT leave uniform items in classrooms or unattended in other areas of the
school (gym, commons area, classrooms, etc.).
d. DO NOT lend any insignia or uniform items to a friend or another cadet or permit
another cadet to turn in any of your uniform items or equipment.
e. DO NOT leave your uniform or equipment in the care of another cadet or student.
6. Clothing items that become worn or otherwise unserviceable should be returned to the
ASI as soon as possible. AFJROTC will replace damaged items at no cost as long as the
condition of the item is due to normal wear and tear. You are responsible for the item’s
condition. If you misuse or neglect Air Force Property, then you must pay for the item.
Return items if they do not fit you.
1. Each cadet must wear his/her uniform properly throughout Uniform Day or on any
other occasion that the uniform is required. Your uniform, except for insignia, is the
same as that worn by USAF personnel. As a Cadet, you only wear the uniform as part
of an AFJROTC function.
Since you wear the uniform of the United States Air Force (USAF), any improper
behavior or conduct in school or in public while in uniform can create an
unfavorable impression of the AFJROTC Program and the USAF. On the other
hand, proper conduct, action, and attitude will enhance the image of your Cadet
Corps. As an AFJROTC Cadet, you must constantly strive to present a NEAT,
CLEAN, AND WELL-GROOMED appearance. All cadets will maintain these
standards during all ROTC sponsored activities.
1. Any cadet experiencing a uniform related problem (lost, stolen, too large or
small, too tight or too loose) will immediately bring it to the attention of the
instructor. Making these problems known on uniform day will not be excused
and grade points will be lost.
2. Flight caps and/or berets will be worn when appropriate, normally outdoors,
but they will never be worn indoors.
3. Flight caps should be carried under the belt on the left side with the closed
end forward.
4. All buttons will be buttoned at all times.
5. All buttons will be in place. Buttons that come off must be replaced.
6. Cadets should never have their hands in their pockets.
7. The GIG Line is the line formed on the males straight down the shirt seam,
the belt buckle and the outside of the fly on the pants. On the females it is
formed by the shirt seam and the outside fly of the stacks, The GIG Line
should always be lined up and form a straight line.
8. A MAXIMUM total of THREE rings maybe worn while in uniform.
9. Males will wear a white, clean, plain V-neck style T-shirt while in uniform.
10. Hitchhiking, manual labor or sports activities will not be accomplished while in
uniform.
11. The nametag is worn centered over the right pocket (no pocket, no nametag)
and flush with the top seam of the pocket on the coat and shirt (men only).
12. Initial nametags will be purchased for incoming cadets. Replacement
nametags will cost $2.00.
13. All insignia will be fastened with metal clutches.
14. Ribbons will be wore and kept neat and clean.
1. Flight cap should be worn slightly to the wearer's right with the top crease at
the center of the forehead in a straight line with the nose and approximately 1
to 1 1/2 inches above the eyebrows. Hair may protrude in front of the cap, but
should not interfere with wearing the cap property. Insignia should be
centered top to bottom and 1 1/2 inches from the front of the cap.
2. Service coats may be removed in the classroom and carefully draped over
the back of a desk chair. Before you leave the classroom the coat will be put
back on. When the coat is part of the uniform of the day, it will be worn
throughout the day except where noted and it will be buttoned.
3. Blouses will be laundered after each time you wear them. Light starch should
be used and it will keep the blouse looking good throughout the day. Close
attention should be taken with the collar (you should use a pre-wash) prior to
washing. Jewelry will not be worn around the neck if it shows at the opening
of the neck of the shirt.
4. Shoes will be issued to each cadet and worn only with the uniform. Shoes will
be laced to the top, tied, and shined to a high gloss at all times.
5. Slacks will comply with the same requirements as the male trousers. The
slacks bottom hem will rest on the top of the shoe in the manner so as to just
break the crease.
6. Socks will be black. If worn, stockings will be black or navy blue.
MALE AFJROTC Uniform REQUIREMENTS
1. Flight caps should be worn with the front crease pointing toward the lower center of the
forehead and placed one finger width above the right eyebrow. It will be placed firmly on
the head but not pulled down tightly. The top crease will be fully extended. Cap insignia
will be placed correctly on the hat.
2. Belt is threaded through the loops to left and buckled so that only the metal tip is showing
with none of the blue belt showing past the buckle. The belt is adjustable.
3. Shoes will be issued to each cadet and worn only with the uniform. When worn, shoes will
be laced to the top, tied, and shined to a high gloss.
4. Socks must be black.
5. Short sleeve blue shirt maybe worn with the top button open at the neck. If the shirt is
worn without a tie, a T-shirt (Athletic style i.e. tank top, or a V-Neck) must be worn. The T-
shirt will not be visible at the neck of the shirt. Jewelry will not be worn around the neck if
it shows at the opening of the neck of the shirt. The shirttail should be tucked into the
trousers tightly and at the side, to make it more form fitting. A pen or pencil may be carried
in the shirt pocket as long as it does not show or interfere with the proper buttoning of the
pocket flap. Bulky items such as glasses will not be carried in the pockets and all buttons
will be buttoned. The shirt will be laundered after each time you wear it (you should use a
pre-wash on the collar). Light starch may be used and it will keep the shirt looking sharp
throughout the day.
6. Trouser legs will rest on the top of the shoe in such a manner as to just break the crease.
The rear button on the pants must be buttoned at all times. Any articles carried in the
trouser pockets will not be visible or make a large bulge.
7. Service coats may be removed in the classroom, and carefully draped over the back of a
desk chair. Before you leave the classroom, the coat will be put back on. The tie will be
worn whenever the service coat is worn, and it will be tied properly. When the coat is part
of the uniform of the day, it will be worn throughout the day and it will be buttoned.
8. Tie tip will be no longer than 1 1/2inches above or below the top of the belt line. The tie will
be tied using a full Windsor knot.
Promotions are recognition of a cadet’s future potential. A cadet’s participation and hard work
in the AFJROTC program indicates potential. Promotions are future opportunities. So, you
may ask, “What do I do to earn a promotion?”
1. First, a cadet must not have academic and behavioral problems at VHS or in AFJROTC.
2. A promotion is an honor. Cadets cannot have any form of school suspension or have less
than a 70-grade average in AFJROTC.
All cadets will have a rank based on the number of years in AFJROTC satisfactorily
completed. Cadets will receive the permanent grade the second semester of each year
providing he/she has made satisfactory progress. The permanent rank for the first year is
Cadet Airman, Cadet Airman First Class, Cadet Senior Airman, and Cadet Staff Sergeant is
for the following years.
1. The cadet rank worn on the uniform is the temporary rank. Rank is limited by position and
grade indicated on the Unit Manning Document (UMD). There are two different types of
temporary promotions. They are regular promotions, position promotions.
2. REGULAR PROMOTIONS: Promotions are patterned after Air Force promotions and fall
into two categories:
a. Fully Qualified and Best Qualified. Regular promotions take place each semester
for cadets in the grades of C/AB-C/CMSgt. Promotion to Cadet /Airman, Airman
First Class, and Senior Airman are on a fully qualified basis. All cadets meeting the
minimum requirements earn are promotion.
b. Cadet/NCO and Cadet/Officer promotions are on a best-qualified basis. Promotion
Boards use the Performance Feedback forms to evaluate and assign a score for
each eligible cadet. The promotion board will review all cadet personnel records
and determine a promotion score. The cadets are ranked ordered from best
qualified to least qualified.
c. Non-promoted cadets will receive feedback on how to increase their chances for
promotion.
94 - 100 50 Points
88 - 93 40 Points
82 - 87 30 Points
76 - 81 20 Points
70 - 75 10 Points
4. Promotion Points break down follows:
Your cadet group organization runs many programs in AFJROTC. The Organizational Chart
reflects your cadet organization. The major responsibilities of each of these positions are
found under Job Descriptions. You need to read and understand each cadet job to
understand how you and your flight fit into the Cadet Corps Mission.
UNIT MANNING DOCUMENT – AFJROTC NEW JERSEY 20091st CADET GROUP
The unit manning Document (UMD) authorizes leadership positions. The UMD is found on
the cadet bulletin board.
1. Cadets must learn the duties and responsibilities of the assigned positions.
2. Promotion up the chain of command is based on job performance, attitude, and potential
for more responsible jobs.
3. All cadets taking on officer positions will enter at the grade of Cadet Second Lieutenant.
4. Some positions may be vacant from time to time.
Your Corps Commander may create temporary positions to meet needs of the cadet
group.
Your duties and responsibilities increase with rank and position in AFJROTC just as they do
in the Air Force. All cadets in position of authority are expected to “Set the Example” of
leadership and professionalism. As a cadet, you should always try to do your best. You
mature as you prepare to assume additional responsibility as you strive to attain a higher rank
or corps position. The following job descriptions outline the major duties of each leadership
position. All cadet staff officers and or their NCOs will attend scheduled staff meetings.
AFJROTC has a future benefit if you choose to enlist in the Armed Forces or
seek a commission through Senior ROTC.