In its first year at Savannah High School, the JROTC program—known as the Savage Battalion—is already making a strong impact both inside the school and throughout the community.
Led by instructor Sgt. Barry Adwell, the program recently hosted a JROTC Night, offering families and community members a closer look at what it means to be part of the growing organization. The evening highlighted not just the structure of the program, but the personal growth and leadership development happening every day.
Cadet Sergeant Codi Barsh served as the student speaker for the event, sharing a firsthand perspective on her experience in JROTC.
“While uniforms and drill are part of the program, JROTC is so much more than that,” Barsh shared. “Being a cadet means learning how to take responsibility, work with others, and step up when something needs to be done.”
Barsh described how the program has helped her develop confidence, discipline, and teamwork through activities like archery, physical training, and leadership exercises. She also emphasized the program’s focus on service, noting cadets’ involvement in events such as food bank distributions and community breakfasts.
That commitment to service is reflected in the program’s first-year accomplishments. In total, the Savage Battalion participated in 40 events, including:
17 color guard presentations at school sporting events
Volunteer efforts with the Second Harvest Food Bank
Community partnerships with the American Legion
Participation in parades, school events, and local ceremonies
The program has also brought new energy to school events. At home football games, cadets introduced the “pushup platform,” engaging the crowd by completing pushups to match the team’s scoring—quickly becoming a recognizable and spirited part of Friday nights.
With 51 students involved, including 44 active cadets, interest in the program has been strong from the start. Cadets are not only participating—they’re excelling. Students have already earned recognition for attendance, physical fitness, and participation in athletics, reflecting the program’s emphasis on discipline and commitment.
Beyond events and recognition, JROTC focuses on preparing students for life after high school. Cadets develop skills in leadership, goal setting, conflict resolution, and teamwork—tools that translate to college, careers, and military pathways alike.
Looking ahead, the program continues to build momentum. Upcoming opportunities include leadership development experiences, expanded competitions, and a milestone moment this summer when the Savage Battalion color guard presents the colors at a Kansas City Royals game.
For Sgt. Adwell and his cadets, this first year has been about more than launching a new program—it’s been about building something meaningful.
As Barsh shared in her remarks, “Leadership is not about rank or titles. It’s about service, responsibility, and helping others succeed.”
That mindset is already shaping a program that is quickly becoming a point of pride for Savannah R3—and one with a strong future ahead.
