National & Veterans Awards

These awards are presented by national veteran organizations and civic partners to recognize cadets for excellence in leadership, academics, and citizenship. Criteria are standardized by the Marine Corps JROTC Awards Manual (26 August 2025).

Legion of Valor Bronze Cross for Achievement

Awarded to one senior cadet per district for exceptional leadership and academic achievement. Must be in the top 25% of both MCJROTC and academic class.

Marine Corps Reserve Association Outstanding Unit Award

Awarded to all cadets in units that place 1st in the Outstanding MCJROTC Unit competition.

American Legion Military Excellence & Scholastic Excellence

Military Excellence recognizes leadership, discipline, and bearing. Scholastic Excellence honors top academic performance and citizenship. Both may be earned in the same year.

American Veterans (AMVETS)

For diligence in duties and willingness to serve the school, community, and nation.

Daedalian JROTC Achievement Award

For junior cadets demonstrating patriotism, service, and potential for a military career.

Military Officers Association of America (MOAA)

For top 10% academic achievers with an “A” in MCJROTC who hold an officer billet.

Military Order of the Purple Heart

For cadets combining scholastic and military excellence with strong leadership.

Military Order of the World Wars (MOWW)

For outstanding military and scholastic achievement with a desire to continue in MCJROTC.

National Sojourners Award

For a sophomore or junior in the top 25% who promotes Americanism and leadership.

Navy League Youth Medal

For professionalism, academic excellence, and dedication to the MCJROTC program.

Noncommissioned Officer Association (NCOA)

For the most outstanding cadet NCO/SNCO showing superior bearing and leadership.

Scottish Rite JROTC Medal

For promoting Americanism through community projects and demonstrating citizenship and dependability.

Sons of the American Revolution (SAR)

For high academic and JROTC performance among junior cadets.

Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR)

For loyalty, patriotism, discipline, leadership, and academic achievement.

Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)

For cadets who demonstrate leadership, character, and involvement in extracurricular activities.

Women Marines Association (WMA)

For outstanding second-year cadets with strong academics and leadership grades.

Reserve Organization Association (ROA)

For cadets showing competence in military skills and contributions to the community.

Vietnam Veterans Association of America (VVAA)

For cadets showing leadership, community service, and academic success.

Celebrate Freedom Foundation Award

For cadets with excellent bearing, initiative, and strong potential for responsibility.

Marine Corps League Community Service & YPFT Awards

Community Service recognizes key leadership in service projects. YPFT recognizes cadets who score 350+ on the MCL Youth Physical Fitness Test.