The Navy Makes a Grand Entrance at Cardozo High School
The Navy showcased its commitment to higher education in a spectacular way at Benjamin N. Cardozo High School in Bayside. An MH-60S Knighthawk chopper landed on the baseball field, leaving hundreds of student cadets amazed and inspired.
Organized as part of Fleet Week, the event was a dream come true for the school’s Navy Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (NJROTC) after four years of planning. It was the first time in at least a decade that such a demonstration had taken place on a city school’s property.
The highlight of the day was the fast rope demonstration by Naval officers from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit. The cadets cheered as the officers descended onto the baseball field from the hovering chopper, creating an electrifying atmosphere.
Meeting the officers and witnessing the helicopter landing ignited a sense of excitement and purpose among the students, many of whom aspire to serve the country in various capacities.
Cardozo High School’s NJROTC program has grown rapidly over the years, with nearly 300 cadets now enrolled. While not all cadets will pursue a military career, the program instills a sense of duty and patriotism in its participants.
For Riddhi Chauhan, the incoming cadet commanding officer, joining the NJROTC program opened her eyes to the possibilities of a career in the Navy. Similarly, Bhaswi Singh, a future pre-law student, plans to join the Navy after graduation to give back to her country.
Events like the helicopter landing at Cardozo High School not only showcase the military’s capabilities but also provide valuable insights for students considering a future in the armed forces. The EOD unit’s presence highlighted the diverse opportunities available in the Navy, beyond traditional sea operations.
Overall, the day was a tribute to the dedication and commitment of both the students and the servicemembers, fostering a sense of unity and respect for those who serve their country.
