12 June 2024 · Office of Communications

Formal ceremony honors the hard work of student cadet leaders at Bell Stadium in the City of Orange. (Christoly Georges/Orange Public Schools) 

ORANGE, NJ — The Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC) at Orange High School celebrated its annual Change of Command ceremony at Bell Stadium. This prestigious event, attended by distinguished guests, parents, and community members, highlights the transition of leadership within high school’s unit every year.

The ceremony commenced with remarks from Chief Thomas Sperduto, USCG (ret.), the naval science instructor at Orange High School, followed by the posting of colors and the national anthem. The Change of Command ceremony allows high school cadets to observe the formal transfer of total responsibility, authority, and accountability from one officer to another, maintaining military traditions and enhancing esprit de corps— the unit's sense of morale and camaraderie. Commander Eric Humphreys, USN (ret.), the Citizenship Development Manager for Area Two of the Naval Services Training Command, was seated front in ceremony as the cadets underwent the ceremony. 

Change of Command ceremonies, in both military and JROTC programs, are deeply rooted in military tradition and date back to the time of Frederick the Great of Prussia. During that period, military organizations developed flags bearing specialized colors and designs unique to them. When soldiers followed their leaders into battle, they kept sight of these flags. If a banner still waved after the conflict, it was a sign that their army was victorious on the battlefield. 

The flag is of great symbolic importance and is central to the ancient change of command ceremony. The modern ceremony is simple and direct, yet it continues to uphold the authority of the incoming commander in accordance with military traditions. Attendees witnessed a series of award presentations and promotions before the formal change of command and senior send-off.

Notable community attendees at Orange High School's ceremony included Superintendent Dr. Fitzhugh, Executive Director Ms. Alcantara, Principal Mr. Belton, Assistant Principals Mr. Frantantoni and Mr. Montesino, Supervisor of CTE/PE Mr. Drakeford, Chief Vincent Vitiello of the Orange Police Department with members of the police force, Deputy Chief Gerard Long and members of the Orange Fire Department, Martha Rodriguez of the East Orange VA Medical Center, as well as parents and staff.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of shadow boxes to each senior cadet. These boxes, containing their formal NJROTC photo and ribbons earned during their service, were a heartfelt remembrance of their dedication and achievements.

The Orange High School NJROTC Change of Command ceremony was an emotional yet celebratory occasion. It honored the contributions of the outgoing student leaders and welcomed new ones, fostering a sense of pride and unity within the unit. The Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps is geared up for the next school year and excited about what lies ahead for them.

2024-2025 Student Command Staff

Commanding Officer
C/CO Daymi Ramos Lopez

Executive Officer (XO)
C/LCDR Fiorella Acosta

Operations Officer
C/LT Vanessa Clement

Master Chief Petty Officer
C/MCPO Simeon Beyan

Drill Commander
C/CPO Shiloh Cort

Academic Officer
C/Ensign Makayla Lynn-Boyd

Administrative Officer
C/Ensign Trumela Bingham

Supply Officer
C/Ensign Achilles Cuevas

Supply Chief
C/CPO Jefferson Chinchilla Ramirez

Physical Training Officer
C/CPO Cameron Booker

Master-at-Arms
C/CPO Kenry Profit

Color Guard Officer
C/CPO Abraham Cisee

Community Service Officer
C/CPO Lynn Labbe

Uniform Inspection Officer
C/CPO Arazi Cruz

View additional photos from the event online. 

About Orange Public Schools

Orange Public Schools provide a diverse range of opportunities and programs to meet the needs of approximately 5,000 students supported by over 900 staff members in eight elementary schools, one middle school, a gifted and talented academy, a renowned preschool program for children ages three and four, the historic Orange High School, and STEM Innovation Academy of the Oranges – one of the top 20 best-performing public high schools in New Jersey according to the US News and World Report.