Castine Current
"Operation Nixus"
Conducted By MMA ROTC Unit
By Amanda Bello `13
From March 22 to 24, 2013 the ROTC unit at Maine Maritime hosted over 130 JROTC cadets from
the New England area for the second annual PT Challenge, codename: Operation Nixus. The event
served to help mentor and physically challenge the JROTC cadets, grades 6 through 12, while helping
give leadership opportunities to the ROTC students. The cadets were given the chance to try their
hands at a modified Marine Corps Combat Fitness Test (CFT) and a teambuilding exercise session that
included the infamous RPT keg pull (See photo). In a culminating awards ceremony, several cadets
were recognized for their leadership, gung ho-ness, and a never give up "Sea Biscuit" attitude. The
challenge was a coordination event with the MMA Admissions Office and was lead on the ROTC side by
3/C Kyle Marshall, `15. 3/C Marshall had this to say about the event, "The purpose of the PT Challenge
was to instill the values of a healthy lifestyle, physical fitness, and self-discipline. It was also an excellent
opportunity for mentoring the high school JROTC and Sea Cadet programs. Cadets learned valuable
lessons of leadership and accountability from their ROTC mentors. PT Challenge 2013 gave 137 cadets
an opportunity to grow and changed many individuals, leaving them with lessons they will carry for the
rest of their lives."
11 MARINER 2013 - Issue 2

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