JROTC

The Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) is a Federal program sponsored by the United States Armed Forces in high schools across the United States. The program was originally created as part of the National Defense Act of 1916 and later expanded under the 1964 ROTC Vitalization Act.  The Eagle Battalion was established in August 1993 by Colonel Dennis Cross and Command Sergeant Major Roy McCormes. DeSoto ISD proudly sponsors the DeSoto ISD Eagle Battalion which has five companies - Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta and Echo. DeSoto ISD also supports three Junior Corp Cadet (JCC) programs - one at each of the three DeSoto middle schools. DeSoto ISD and the instructors of the JROTC program subscribe to the JROTC vision and goals of the federal program, for more information visit www.usarmyjrotc.com .

The DeSoto JROTC program has nothing to do with trying to recruit students to join the United States Military. Students do not incur a military obligation by participating in our program. While they do not incur an obligation to the Armed Forces, students will gain valuable instruction that can be utilized throughout their lives.   

Here’s what Army JROTC can do for your student:    

  • Build Their College/Job Resume
  • Students receive yearly awards (local & National)
  • Students compete in drill and physical fitness competitions
  • Students will work towards and earn leadership positions
  • Students will participate in many community service volunteer opportunities
  • Employers & College Admissions Representatives respect JROTC Cadets because they are disciplined students and reliable leaders
  • Scholarship Opportunities

Our Mission:
The mission of the JROTC Program is "To Motivate Young People to be Better Citizens"

Our Vision:
Providing a quality citizenship, character, and leadership development program, while fostering partnerships with communities and educational institutions.

Why Join Army Junior ROTC:

  • To appreciate the ethical values and principles that underlie good citizenship.
  • To develop leadership potential, while living and working cooperatively with others. To be able to think logically and to communicate effectively with others, both orally and in writing.
  • To appreciate the importance of physical fitness in maintaining good health.
  • To understand the importance of high school graduation for a successful future, and learn about college and other advanced educational and employment opportunities.
  • To develop mental management abilities.
  • To become familiar with military history as it relates to America's culture, and understand the history, purpose, and structure of military services.
  • To develop the skills necessary to work effectively as a member of a team.

DeSoto ISD JROTC Instructors

LTC (R) Russel L. Hooper

Senior Army Instructor, Director of JROTC Programs

(972) 274-1818 ext. 3605

[email protected]


CSM (R) Joe D. Clayton Jr.

Army Instructor

(972) 274-1818 ext. 3606

[email protected]


SFC (R) Edward Prueitt

Army Instructor

(972) 274-1818 ext. 3604

[email protected]