Rear Admiral Pottenburgh Visits MCPS NJROTC Units, Inspires Future Leaders

Navy Rear Admiral John Pottenburgh, Commander of the Naval Service Training Command, visited ’ (MCPS) Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC) programs at Paint Branch, John F. Kennedy, Gaithersburg and Seneca Valley high schools.

The Aug. 27 visit welcomed cadets back for the new school year and celebrated the leadership, academic and career-building opportunities offered through the NJROTC program. Cadets showcased their skills through presentations, drill demonstrations and question-and-answer sessions with the admiral.

At Paint Branch, more than 90 cadets, including cross-enrolled students from Springbrook, Blake, Briggs Chaney, and Benjamin Banneker, gathered to welcome the Admiral. Staff and students celebrated the unit’s recent achievement of earning Distinguished Unit status after just three years, as well as its designation as Area 3’s Most Improved Unit for 2024–2025.

Students were also invited to ask the Admiral questions. 

“I asked about nursing in the Navy, and I really appreciated the way the Admiral answered my questions,” said Cadet Petty Officer Second Class R. Abdullahi. “He mentioned that the Navy needs more nurses and that there are several more roles available.” 

At Kennedy, cadets shared how NJROTC shaped their skills and confidence.

Senior B. Sene, who has been in the program for four years, said the program helped transform him from a shy student into a confident leader.

“The most important skill I learned is definitely communication,” he said. “Coming into the unit, I was very shy. I didn’t talk a lot, but now, four years in, I’m able to speak in front of a big crowd.” 

Junior K. Gutierrez Molina mentioned that her dream is to join the Naval Academy to be one of the first Salvadorian women in space. 

“The admiral’s visit gave me even more motivation for my future,” she said. “It shows that with hard work, anything is possible.”

Principal Karla Lopez-Arias said the visit reflected the strength and promise of the Kennedy program.

 “Admiral Pottenburg’s visit is a powerful reminder of the values our cadets strive to live by every day, ” she said. “Having the opportunity to learn directly from a distinguished leader of our nation’s Navy is truly inspiring for our students and reinforces the importance of preparing the next generation of leaders, both in and out of uniform.”

At Gaithersburg cadets said the visit was a motivational boost for their unit.

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“During Admiral Pottenburgh’s visit, he provided our cadets with a lot of information regarding amazing opportunities in the Navy,” said Cadet Lieutenant Commander L. West. “He was truly inspirational to everyone in our unit.”

During the visit, the admiral spoke about his career journey and encouraged the students to apply to Naval Service Training Command and to take advantage of scholarships. 

For Seneca Valley, the visit was a proud moment to showcase the growth of its program and the cadets’ achievements.

“This was an incredible opportunity for our students and school to highlight a program that can change lives and provide opportunities for our students,” said Principal Ricardo Hernandez. 

While about 35% of NJROTC cadets eventually join the military, the program’s focus is leadership and personal growth. Students develop skills in communication, teamwork and time management, skills that carry them into college, careers and community leadership roles.

With over 700 NJROTC programs nationwide, MCPS students are part of a powerful network of young leaders, ready to shape the future in and out of uniform.