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Our JROTC Program: A Foundation for Success

The U.S. Army Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) program is dedicated to our mission: to motivate young people to be better citizens. We achieve this not by recruiting for military service, but by building a foundation of leadership, discipline, and personal responsibility that will benefit cadets in any future career.

Our curriculum focuses on the following key outcomes:

Ethical Leadership and Values: We teach cadets to appreciate the ethical values and principles that are essential for good citizenship. Through hands-on practice, they learn to develop their leadership potential while working cooperatively as a team.
Effective Communication: Cadets are trained to think logically and communicate effectively, both in writing and through public speaking.
Physical and Mental Wellness: We emphasize the importance of physical fitness for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, while also teaching cadets mental management abilities to help them with problem-solving and focus.
Academic and Career Readiness: Our program highlights the importance of high school graduation as a stepping stone to a successful future. We also provide guidance on college and other advanced educational and employment opportunities.
Civic and Historical Appreciation: Cadets become familiar with military history and its relationship to American culture, gaining an understanding of the history, purpose, and structure of the armed services.

Through our structured classroom instruction and demanding co-curricular activities, we equip cadets with the knowledge, discipline, and sense of responsibility necessary to take charge of their own future. The result is a responsible, confident, and well-rounded citizen ready to lead.

Panther Battalion Cadet of the Month

By Cadet Second Lieutenant Torrie Conell

The Palatka JROTC Battalion is proud to announce that Private First Class Ella Murillo has been selected as our Cadet of the Month. PFC Murillo has consistently exceeded the qualities required for this position, proving herself to be a vital asset to our program.

Before joining JROTC, Murillo felt her life lacked a specific direction for her natural sense of structure. Since joining the Corps, she has found a place to apply that discipline. Known for her selfless nature, she is the type of cadet who "would give the shirt off her back" for another person and always executes what is asked of her without hesitation.

PFC Murillo maintains a strong 3.9 GPA, consistently earning A’s and B’s through her hard work and commitment to her education.

Her true passion within the program is the Air Rifle Team. Despite this being her first year in the sport, she has made outstanding progress, averaging a score of 230 out of 300 each time she competes. Her skills have helped the team secure various trophies, and she thoroughly enjoys the opportunity to travel for competitions.

A defining moment in Murillo’s cadet career occurred during the Air Rifle State Qualifier. Stepping in as a substitute for the team’s top shooter, she felt immense pressure. She overcame the nerves by treating the high-stakes match like a standard practice, a mental shift that boosted her confidence and allowed her to perform when the team needed her most.

JROTC has provided PFC Murillo with a sense of "family" and the motivation to become the strongest version of herself. Looking forward, she has set her sights high:

Current Goal: To be selected for a JROTC Staff position.
Long-term Goal: To become a Battalion Commander.
Career Path: She plans to join the U.S. Army or become a firefighter, driven by her deep desire.

PFC Murillo credits her success to the examples set by First Sergeant Regier and Cadet Major Kalen Amedee. She views them as exceptional role models who prioritize commitment and care, inspiring her to strive for those same leadership qualities every day.

Palatka Jr./Sr High School Army JROTC Cadre

COL (R) Johnson, Gray

Colonel Johnson earned his commission in 1994 through the Florida State University Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program, accepting appointment in the Florida Army National Guard as a Second Lieutenant in the Signal Corps. Initially serving as a traditional Guardsman, he effectively balanced a civilian career as middle school history teacher and football coach until entering active service with the Florida Army National Guard in 2001. He has completed two operational deployments in support of Operations Noble Eagle/Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom as well as numerous state deployments in support of the citizens of Florida. While in uniform, Colonel Johnson served in leadership and staff positions at all echelons of command, culminating his career as the Chief of Staff or the Florida Army National Guard.

Colonel Johnson’s civilian education includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Science Education from Florida State University and a Master’s Degree in Strategic Studies from U.S. Army War College. His awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, the Florida Cross, and the Florida Commendation Medal. His military qualifications include the Parachutist Badge.

Colonel Johnson retired in July 2024 after 23 years of active service and 30 years of total service to State and Nation.

Contact me at: gjohnson@my.putnamschools.org

1SG (R) Regier, Tyson

With 21 years of active duty service in the United States Army, I have cultivated a deep commitment to leadership, discipline, and service. Over the course of multiple combat deployments in support of the Global War on Terror in Iraq, Afghanistan, Kosovo, and Africa, I served in leadership roles for 18 years, earning recognition for my dedication and valor. My honors include three Bronze Stars—one awarded w/ Valor—two Meritorious Service Medals, two Purple Hearts, and six Army Commendation Medals, reflecting a career defined by courage, excellence, and commitment. I am proud to be a Soldier for Life.

After earning a B.A. in Business from the University of Maryland, along with a Leadership and Management Certificate, I continued my professional development by obtaining a Personal Coaching Certificate. I am passionate about teaching and firmly believe that anyone can achieve anything through hard work and determination.

Outside of my professional life, I am a proud father to my son Landon and my daughter Quinn, and a devoted husband to my beautiful wife, Nicole. I also enjoy carpentry, shooting, staying active through health and fitness, and watching football with my family. —Go Ravens!

Contact me at: tregier@my.putnamschools.org