JROTC members tour Cannon

U.S. Air Force photo: Airman 1st Class Ericka Engblom

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Andrew Portz, 16th Special Operations Squadron, educates members of the Amarillo Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps on military life during a tour of Cannon Air Force Base. Air Force JROTC is the high school variation of the college ROTC program where students can experience military training while achieving their high school education.

Members of the Amarillo Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps toured Cannon Air Force Base March 20.

The cadets visited several facilities on base including the 16th Special Operations Squadron, the Military Working Dogs and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal shop. They also enjoyed lunch at the Pecos Trail Dining Facility and were given a chance to visit Military Clothing Sales.

Air Force JROTC is a program dedicated to creating citizens of character who are willing to serve their nation and community. Cadets are trained in citizenship, responsibility and self-discipline. The program promotes community service and provides instruction in air and space fundamentals.

U.S. Air Force photo: Airman 1st Class Ericka Engblom

Members of the Amarillo division Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps operate an explosive ordnance device machine during the tour.

"Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps helps show kids that there is more to the world than what exists in their hometown," said Master Sgt. Hal Finnecy, Air Force JROTC instructor. "We're giving them opportunities for a better future."

By touring Air Force bases and other military installations, JROTC shows its members what life could be like for them should they enlist or commission.

"The tour was very informative," said one of the Air Force JROTC cadets, "I really enjoyed it."