The precision of a sharp salute and the gleam of polished brass took center stage last week as Pacifica High School’s NJROTC hosted its highly anticipated Annual Military Inspection (AMI). Despite an unexpected setback that prevented the traditional formal inspections and the ceremonial Pass and Review, the unit’s resilience remained unshaken. Rather than letting the change in schedule dampen their spirits, the cadets pivoted with professional grace, turning the event into a powerful showcase of the discipline and leadership that define the Mariner battalion.
Kimti Phan
Central to the unit’s success this year was the tireless work of the “Big 7” leadership team, specifically the efforts of the Administrative Department. Cadet Lieutenant Kimti Phan, the unit’s Administrative Officer, played a pivotal role in maintaining the battalion’s backbone by managing supplies, equipment, and the detailed records of over 120 cadets. This responsibility was magnified by the significant challenge of operating without a second instructor for the majority of the school year. “Planning and organizing events while simultaneously making sure the cadets are keeping up with the curriculum… was definitely difficult without as much guidance,” Phan noted, “but our efforts reaped many benefits and successes overall.” Despite the mental and physical hurdles of accounting for the bulk of the unit’s paperwork, Phan highlighted that the support of fellow student leaders made the mission possible. This collective resilience culminated in a standout presentation for the Area 21 Manager, Commander Tom Garcia. By showcasing the achievements of the STEM, drill, and academic teams, the leadership team transformed the AMI into a moment of unit-wide validation, sparking a sense of pride that Phan described as “radiating through the room.”
Shane Dao
Stepping away from the paperwork and into the realm of unit conduct, Cadet Lieutenant Shane Dao serves as the Command Master at Arms (CMAA), leading the Disciplinary and Correctional Department. In this high-stakes role, Dao acts as the unit’s primary mediator, a position that requires a delicate balance of authority and empathy. He noted that his most significant challenge lies in conflict resolution—specifically, ensuring all parties feel heard while knowing exactly where to “draw the line” to prevent issues from escalating. This focus on maintaining harmony within the ranks was mirrored in his highlight of the year: a direct conversation with Commander Garcia. During this meeting, Dao not only received valuable feedback on the unit’s discipline but also stepped up as a vocal advocate for the Brain Brawl team, proving that his leadership extends from correcting conduct to championing the battalion’s academic success.
Jasmine Wang
To ensure the battalion remains as strong mentally as it is physically, Cadet Ensign Jasmine Wang serves as the unit’s Intervention Officer, a role dedicated to supporting cadet mental health and emotional well-being. Recognizing that transitioning into a rigorous military program can be daunting, Wang implemented an anonymous tip form this year, providing a safe and comfortable space for cadets to voice concerns or personal struggles. While her involvement in other after-school activities sometimes prevents her from attending weekly formations, she emphasizes the resilient, family-like nature of the program. “Since the unit is a closely woven one, there will always be someone to talk to,” Wang noted, adding that she remains accessible via social media for any cadet facing extreme challenges. This commitment to internal support did not go unnoticed during the AMI; Commander Garcia provided high praise for the initiative and offered constructive feedback on further strengthening the program’s mentorship and leadership foundations.
Ultimately, the success of this year’s Annual Military Inspection was measured not by the complexity of the drills, but by the strength of the cadet leadership that rose to meet an unconventional year. From logistical mastery in the face of staff shortages to a commitment to fair discipline and mental health advocacy, the student leaders proved that the battalion is built on a foundation of resilience. While the absence of the Pass and Review was a notable change, the praise from the Area Manager served as a definitive validation of the unit’s hard work. As the cadets look toward the remainder of the year, they do so with a renewed sense of pride, having demonstrated that true excellence is defined by how well a team adapts and supports one another through adversity.
