Pine-Richland High School's Air Force JROTC program has been selected as one of 387 units to receive the 2019-20 Air Force JROTC Distinguished Unit Award. Pine-Richland's unit includes cadets from Mars Area High School.

Pine-Richland High School’s Air Force JROTC program has been selected as one of 387 units to receive the 2019-20 Air Force JROTC Distinguished Unit Award.

The award recognizes JROTC units that have distinguished themselves through outstanding service to their school and community, while meeting the program’s citizen development mission for America.

To earn this award, units must meet several milestones during the school year for enrollment and service hours while also meeting deadlines, conducting a self-assessment and accomplishing six or more leadership development requirements.

In 2018-19, Pine-Richland entered a successful agreement with Mars Area High School. As a result, the JROTC program opened its doors to all Mars students.

Participating students attend daily JROTC courses and activities at Pine-Richland High School. Major Michael Morrison and Chief Michael Gasparetto oversee the program.

JROTC aims to educate and train high school cadets in citizenship and life skills; promote community service; instill responsibility, character and self-discipline through character education; and provide instruction in air and space fundamentals.