March 10, 2011

Manchin Urges Navy Secretary to Preserve Parkersburg High School Junior ROTC Program

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) has sent a letter to Secretary of the Navy Raymond E. Mabus, Jr. expressing his disappointment in the Navy’s decision to disband the Parkersburg High School Navy Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps at the end of June 2011, and urging Secretary Mabus to do all he can to keep the program active.

“West Virginia is one of the most patriotic states in our great country, and our young people should have every opportunity not just to serve this nation, but also to learn the values of discipline, hard work and leadership that our military instills. I have heard from many parents and concerned residents in Parkersburg who are very upset that the Junior ROTC Program has been slated to end,” Senator Manchin said. “I understand there is still considerable interest from students who want to participate in the program, and I truly believe that both those students and our country will benefit from a continued commitment to the program. It would be a shame to allow something so valuable to disappear, and I’m encouraging Secretary Mabus to continue the program.”

Senator Manchin presented Secretary Mabus with letters from West Virginians who have expressed their disappointment over the proposal to end the Navy Junior ROTC program. According to parent of a current participant, 109 students have committed to participating during the next academic year, more than the minimum required to maintain the program. 

A copy of the Senator’s letter is attached.

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