I just retired and took an Army JROTC instructor position. Any ideas how to inspire today's youth to want to succeed in life?

Maj. Coulter,
I was in JROTC in HS. LTC Yenter & SGM Petro inspired me to the extent that I wouldn't be who or where I am today, were it not for their encouragement, wisdom, and great stories from their own experiences that they were seemingly able to retrieve to match any circumstance or dilemma one could find themselves in. Most importantly, we knew they genuinely cared about us and our futures.

These two instructors had different backgrounds and experienced the Army uniquely given the roles officers and enlisted are placed in. If they had any rivalries or other issues between them, then they kept them hidden well and taught us the only way to success was through teamwork. Those of us who left for the military had some simple advice, remain flexible.

When I enlisted in 1982 and went to basic at Fort Knox, I was way ahead of my peers in land navigation, first aid, drill & ceremonies, rank structure, marksmanship (not sure if they allow them to fire weapons anymore with today's anti gun climate), wear of the uniform, leadership, military regulations, code of conduct, and the list goes on.

Though we all enlist or get commissioned in the same Army George Washington led against Gen. Cornwallis of the British Army at Yorktown, it had to evolve and change to become the force it is today.

Guide young people as they consider the military as a profession to evolve and change as you do the same.

Also remember they are kids and look to you as an example.

You must show students by example what a Soldier is and what a Soldier does to fellow man. Often they take for granted that a Soldier Just fights the enemy with weapons. In todays Army a Sokdier has to perform many tasks including taking care of their fellow man regardless of who they are Hooah ? Congrats on your position and remember that you represent yourself, your family, the Army and all of the Armed Forces. Hooah!!!!b you do have many challenges and if you are professional many JROTC will follow. You will also be able to help nominate the strongest student cadets for nomination to Service Academies.. West Point Etc...

First, basic fairness is fundamental. My outstanding, squared-away daughter waited two years to finally get the chance to attend a week-long leadership camp. She was accepted, so we drove there, waiting for room assignments, and got told the female room was being painted, so no females would attend this year. Huge tears and disappointment with the whole military. (Actually, that was probably a realistic introduction.) But it broke the camel's back.
Second, don't tolerate cadet-on-cadet abuse. Much of the program involves cadets being in charge of training other cadets. They will emulate you, but without restraint. So if you're a yelling type, they will be screaming and cursing types.
Third, JRTOC is not a recruiting agency. It's to build citizens. Some of our cadets were discipline problems, and their parents thought of JROTC as therapy. In some cases, JROTC was the last choice before jail. Good luck.