Story by: LTC (R) Ryan Core
Photos by: MSG (R) Douglas Robbins
Arsenal Tech High School JROTC Raider Team Triumphs Over Marine Corps Competitors
Indianapolis, IN – November 18, 2023
The Arsenal Tech High School Army JROTC Raider Team from 7th Brigade demonstrated exceptional skill and resilience as they faced off against six Marine Corps JROTC teams at Ben Davis High School on November 18, 2023. The competition was intense, with Arsenal Tech being the sole Army team amid a sea of Marine competitors.
One Cadet said it was, “like a cat at a German Shepherd convention,” referring to the challenging situation in which the Arsenal Tech team found themselves. Far from being intimidated however, they rose to the occasion, surpassed all expectations, and secured several trophies in various categories.
Out of the six teams in contention, Arsenal Tech claimed the top spot in the 5k Combat Boot Run and the Rope Bridge events, showcasing their speed, agility, and teamwork. In addition, they clinched 2nd place in both the Sandbag Challenge and the Tire Flip, and secured a respectable 3rd place in the challenging Physical Team Test.
These outstanding performances culminated in Arsenal Tech High School JROTC Raider Team earning an impressive 2nd place overall in the competition. The crowning achievement, however, was one of their team members receiving the prestigious “Best Raider Trophy,” a significant accomplishment considering the predominantly Marine Corps competition. Speaking on the condition of anonymity, a USMC instructor jokingly admitted that witnessing an Army JROTC Cadet winning the “Best Raider” title was, “almost too much to bear.”
Arsenal Tech’s JROTC Army Instructor MSG (R) Brian Giacobbe expressed his pride, stating, “Last year, we were just happy to compete with the USMC Raider teams. This year, we are happy to take all your trophies! These Cadets work hard every day, and the results show that. The days of not being able to hang because we are a city school are over. Arsenal Tech is coming for everyone. You have been warned!”
Army Instructor MSG (R) Douglass Robbins extended a gracious thank you to the USMC for the challenge they provided. He emphasized the excellent teamwork and camaraderie displayed during the competition, acknowledging that the Marine Cadets pushed Arsenal Tech to elevate their game.
The Arsenal Tech High School JROTC Raider Team’s success is a testament to their dedication, discipline, and commitment to excellence. They have come a long way, but know they still have much growth ahead of them. Challenges like this competition pushes them to their limits, and they are looking forward to the next one!
