Maritime College is headquarters for the training and development of this country’s future leaders, those strong and disciplined enough to join the prestigious Navy Reserve Officer Training Corps.
The Maritime headquarters offers four distinct commissioning programs including the Navy/Marine Corps ROTC, Merchant Marine Reserve USNR Midshipman Program, Navy Seaman to Admiral – 21st Century Program, and Marine Enlisted Commissioning and Education Program.
To participate in the Maritime unit you must be an enrolled college student at Maritime, Fordham University or Molloy College. Prior to completing the course, participants must meet the physical requirements, but it is advised this be met before beginning the four-year program.
“We develop these students mentally, morally, and physically to be officers in the Navy and Marine Corps,” said Captain James Driscoll, Commanding Officer of the Unit. “Many student athletes and campus leaders are members of my unit.”
Out of 59 NROTC units spread throughout the country, Maritime is the only location in the tri-state area, and the 5th largest in the country with over 200 students in the battalion.
The group meets once a week at 5:30 a.m. for their physical training, and each Wednesday afternoon for two hours for leadership training.
Benefits for active duty participants include the chance to enter college with a scholarship and receive free tuition, as well as no payment on books and uniform, plus a $250 month stipend beginning freshman year that increases $50 each year until senior year. Others may apply to receive a partial scholarship once enrolled in the program.
According to Driscoll, last year 36 students put in for a scholarship and all applicants were awarded the scholarship, providing the same benefits as those who enter with full time scholarships.
“We set high standards for people and this is something that will help you when you get into the outside world,” said Brad Toman, who plans to graduate in January of 2010. “People know who will be a disciplined and reliable person and it really helps you develop your character.”
For more information visit www.sunymaritime.edu/NROTC and MMR/index.aspx.
