SEMPER FI
- Always Faithful -
A Marine standard applied to cadet leadership.
Semper Fidelis — Always Faithful — is more than a Marine Corps motto.
It is a lifelong standard of conduct that governs how one carries themselves in duty, in discipline, and in character.
Within this unit, Semper Fi represents the expectation that cadets lead by example, hold themselves accountable, and remain faithful to their responsibilities — to the unit, to their peers, and to themselves. It demands consistency, reliability, and the willingness to do what is right, even when it is difficult or unnoticed.
This standard applies beyond formation and uniform.
It extends into the classroom, the community, and daily decision-making. Cadets who uphold Semper Fi understand that leadership is demonstrated through actions, not titles, and that trust is earned through integrity and follow-through.
This is not about rank.
It is about standards.
It is about showing up prepared, maintaining discipline, respecting others, and committing to personal growth. Cadets who embrace Semper Fi accept responsibility for their conduct and recognize that their actions reflect not only on themselves, but on the unit as a whole.
Semper Fi is a commitment to excellence, to accountability, and to always setting the example.
What “Semper Fi” Means for Cadets
A Marine standard applied to cadet leadership. Semper Fi represents the values cadets are expected to uphold every day — in uniform, in school, and in life. It emphasizes leadership, discipline, honor, commitment, and teamwork, guiding cadets to lead by example, remain accountable for their actions, and support one another in all circumstances
The Semper Fi Standard: Mental, Physical, and Character
Mental endurance is the ability to remain focused, disciplined, and composed under pressure. For Semper Fi cadets, it means maintaining standards, making sound decisions, and persevering through challenge, stress, and responsibility.
Cadets demonstrate mental endurance through:
- Maintaining academic accountability alongside NJROTC commitments
- Performing under pressure during inspections, evaluations, and competitions
- Remaining disciplined and focused during long training days and events
- Adapting to challenges, setbacks, and high expectations
- Demonstrating maturity, self-control, and resilience in demanding situations
Mental endurance is built over time. It reflects a cadet’s ability to stay committed, think clearly, and lead responsibly even when conditions are difficult or demanding.
Physical endurance is developed through consistent training, discipline, and effort. It prepares cadets to meet fitness standards, push past fatigue, and perform effectively in demanding situations.
- 7 Spartan Races (3× Sprint, 2× Super, 2× Beast)
- 8 hikes in the Knox & Gatlinburg area (6–14 miles)
- Grand Canyon hike (22 miles)
- Mt. San Jacinto, Palm Springs (21 miles)
- Tandem skydiving (Spring/Summer)
- Scuba certification (TBD)
- Leadership development
- LtGen Lawrence Nicholson (USMC–Ret)
- LtGen Robert Baily (USMC–Ret)
- MG Purser (USA–Ret)
- Maj Gen Webber (USAF–Ret)
- Dr. JD Faulconer (JROTC Advisor)
- CAPT John Gearhart (USN–Ret / SSBN Commander)
- ETMAC morning meeting (February / 1st Thursday)
- Knox Chamber of Commerce (day & evening events)
- Visits to UTK ROTC (Army & Air Force)
- Visits to Jacksonville University, Vanderbilt University, and University of Florida ROTC programs
- Empty Stocking program, Smoky Mountain Service Dog support, Drill Team & Color Guard
- Community service goal: 100 hours per cadet
Character is the foundation upon which all leadership is built. In the Semper Fi program, character defines who a cadet is when faced with responsibility, challenge, and choice. It is not measured by rank or recognition, but by consistency in behavior, values, and decision-making.
Strong character is demonstrated through integrity, accountability, respect, and self-discipline. Cadets are expected to uphold standards, accept responsibility for their actions, and treat others with fairness and dignity. These qualities build trust within the unit and reflect positively on the program both in and out of uniform.
- Integrity and honesty
- Accountability and responsibility
- Respect for self and others
- Discipline and self-control
- Commitment to doing what is right
Character is developed through daily actions, not single moments. Cadets learn that doing the right thing is often difficult and sometimes unnoticed, yet it remains essential. Through training, service, and leadership opportunities, cadets are challenged to act ethically, remain dependable, and lead by example.
The principles learned through character development extend beyond the unit. They prepare cadets to become responsible students, leaders, and citizens who contribute positively to their communities. A cadet with strong character carries these values for life, guided by honor, commitment, and respect for others.
The Semper Fi Program
