The Lincoln Log

ROTC has always been one of the many constant controversies at ALHS. With those who are against it constantly pushing to get it cut from the budget and curriculum, and those who believe in its usefulness saving it from the reject pile at the last minute.

The school is at it again.

JROTC is on the list of things to be cut, but it is time for ALHS to realize the importance of the program for once and for all.

It is true, of course, that having ROTC suggests the establishment supports war instead of pacifism, where a public institution, in the opinion of some, should be unbiased, but such an establishment should also provide options for all of its recipients, including those in favor of JROTC (RO).

Of even greater importance is the fact that we live in a country of free choice. Is it fair for individuals to say that simply because they do not believe in it, or do not want to participate in it themselves, that neither should anyone else? Of course not. Each should make his or her decision.

Finally, the program should not be disbanded because it has become of such huge importance to the participants. Their passionate devotion and hours of discipline and practicing are no different from that of one of ALHS’ many sports teams. Imagine the outcry of the student body if it were said that soccer, or –heaven forbid—football, was to be cut. Why is that any different? The people in RO have found their niche; each of us have one. And we are not the ones to take that away from them, or say that it is wrong.

JROTC deserves its place among the other Lincoln programs. This is no longer merely about revisiting a common argument; this is now about the moral obligation that we as a student body have, to protect the interests of others, and in doing so, ourselves. Because who knows what will be the next cut if we let this one get by? Today it is merely ROTC, but next year it could be your niche, your program, your piece of Lincoln.