Jacksonville University NROTC Unit

08/24/2025

Over 100 motivated midshipmen volunteered at the Annual Mayport Mud Run this morning. They were assigned stations to supervise and cheer on participants as they passed through the obstacles throughout the course.
Afterwards, they were given the opportunity to run the course themselves!
Events like these are one of the great ways that JUNROTC integrates with the installations located in this fleet concentration area.

08/22/2025

This morning, our battalion kicked off the day with a special drill period full of energy and connection! 🎶🥞 From a delicious breakfast to music, games, and meaningful conversations, the camaraderie was strong.

A highlight of the morning: celebrating the swearing-in of our newly awarded scholarship recipients—an exciting milestone in their journey as future Navy and Marine Corps officers. ⚓🇺🇸

08/20/2025

🏃‍♂️ Lace up and join us for the inaugural Steel Magnolia 5K hosted by JU NROTC!
📅 Sunday, October 26th | ⏰ 9:00 a.m.
📍 Riverfront Route, Jacksonville University

This 5K is more than a race—it’s a celebration of resilience, leadership, and community. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or cheering from the sidelines, come support our future Navy & Marine Corps officers while enjoying JU’s scenic campus and riverfront views. 🌊⚓️

✅ Scenic route & campus views
✅ Special recognition for top finishers
✅ Post-race refreshments & music
✅ Commemorative race shirt

🎟 Registration: $30
👉 RSVP by October 16th at: bit.ly/JUHCFW25

08/16/2025

Sign-up to support the Midshipmen of the Jacksonville University NROTC Unit in the 1st Annual Golf Scramble!

- Friday, September 5, 2025
- Windy Harbor Golf Club at NS Mayport
- $85 per participant (or sponsor a Midshipman for $50)

Contact LT Wilson at [email protected] to reserve your spot!

08/15/2025

Today, 30 of our midshipmen took to the field for a competitive paintball session organized by our unit staff. This high-energy event strengthened bonds, sharpened communication, and brought our team even closer together. We’re kicking off the year with great momentum and can’t wait for what’s ahead.

08/15/2025

Training Day 4:
On the final day of NSO, the candidates began their morning with the O-course, where they learned proper techniques and honed skills for every obstacle.

Next, they faced the culminating event: a lengthy challenge that included the O-course at the end, requiring grit, strong teamwork and effective communication.

Finally, the candidates took the oath, officially becoming Midshipmen. These Midshipmen experienced their ups and downs but ultimately persevered. They learned how to work together and lead, but most importantly, they discovered what it means to be a Midshipman at Jacksonville University.

08/14/2025

08/12/2025

Training Day 2:
This morning, our Marine and Navy Option Midshipmen tested their strength, core stability, and endurance during the initial Physical Fitness Test/Assessment, showing impressive drive and motivation throughout.

Following the fitness challenges, they received valuable information through a series of briefs.

The day concluded with candidates reviewing their knowledge and engaging in a Q&A with Midshipmen about the many clubs and opportunities available at JU NROTC. PHINS UP! ⚓🐬

08/12/2025

Training Day 1:
Midshipmen rose before the sun for an early reveille, followed by a quick MRE breakfast and unit check-in. The morning kicked off with General Military Training briefs led by Midshipman Instructors, setting the tone for a day of learning and discipline.

In the afternoon, Gunnery Sergeant Veliz led hands-on instruction in basic drill, reinforcing precision, focus, and attention to detail. A strong start to NSO! ⚓️

08/11/2025

Training Day 0:
Welcome to the JU NROTC class of 2025! Our CO, Bryan S. Gallo, started off NSO by outlining the path towards commissioning and introducing our program requirements.
The new Midshipman met our dedicated active duty staff, including Gunnery Sergeant, Steven Veliz, who gave them a taste of his former drill instructor side. Under the guidance of their Midshipman Instructors, the journey into the JU NROTC Battalion has begun. We’re excited for the days of training ahead!

07/30/2025

From ship decks to the field with the Marine options at FMF, our JU NROTC midshipmen spent their summer cruises gaining hands-on experience in Navy and Marine operations. From sea trials to tactical training, each evolution brought new challenges, growth, and purpose. We are proud of every one of our future leaders for stepping up and making the most of every opportunity. ⚓️🦅

06/30/2025

🎓 On June 28, a group of our dedicated Midshipmen completed Officer Candidate School (OCS) in Quantico, Virginia — a rigorous program designed to test and develop the physical endurance, mental toughness, and leadership skills required of Marine Corps Officers.

Pictured left to right: MIDN Adrian Medina, Kevin Hernandez Perez, Julian Hidalgo Santiago, Samuel Reyes, Isabel Mayo, Aidan Lowe, William O'Quinn, Ryan Dannelly, and our own AMOI, GySgt Steven Veliz.

(Not pictured: MIDN Ransford Pon.)

Bravo Zulu to these future leaders of the Marine Corps! Semper Fidelis 🇺🇸