- July 09, 2024
My name is Jamariyuh Chandler. When I was in high school, I aspired to pursue a career in the U.S. Army after graduation. Through the school’s work-based learning program coordinator, I was introduced to Chief Brian Finney, a retired U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer and Naval Science Instructor at Baldwin High School. I wanted to speak with Chief Finney about my interest in the military. Given his position, many students sought his advice, but I was determined to show that my inquiry was serious.
Despite some initial scheduling conflicts, we finally met on a Wednesday morning in late January. Understanding the importance of first impressions, I showed up in a shirt and tie, ready to make a professional impression. During our meeting, I shared my plans, including my application for the Army ROTC scholarship. Chief Finney saw my dedication and invited me to join the Baldwin High School Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC).
When I began reporting to Chief Finney daily, I spent a lot of time observing and learning from the senior cadets. My first role was in the supply department, where I assisted with uniform and property inventory and management. As I became more comfortable, I helped senior cadets teach subjects such as mentorship, professionalism, and teamwork to first-year cadets.
One significant moment for me was when Chief Finney advised that I couldn’t be issued a uniform due to my locs not being within uniform regulations. Determined to participate fully, I got a military regulation haircut and soon wore the uniform proudly, setting an example for other cadets.
My role in the unit expanded beyond NJROTC. I started training other cadets in physical training (PT), drawing from my experience as the senior captain of the school’s wrestling team. I motivated my peers and provided extra training for those who needed help with PT. I also stepped out of my comfort zone by learning military drill fundamentals, eventually marching with our unit in the 2024 Cherry Blossom Festival Parade in Macon.
The skills I gained and enhanced during my time with the NJROTC—discipline, effort, accountability, teamwork, and sacrifice—will be invaluable in my future endeavors. My experience with Chief Finney and the NJROTC unit was incredibly beneficial, allowing me to lead my peers while embodying the Navy’s core values of honor, courage, and commitment. This journey has not only prepared me for the next steps of my life but has also shown me the importance of dedication and hard work in achieving my goals. By the end of my internship, I received the scholarship I applied for earlier and am proud to say that I will be attending Tuskegee University in Fall 2024.
Best regards,
Jamariyuh Chandler
