Our History

Officially the California Cadet Corps began in 1911 when the California Legislature passed the High School Cadet Act. Actually, however, the institution of cadet companies is an outgrowth of an old California custom. The Adjutant General in his report for 1861 said: "In many former annual reports I have frequently recommended the organization of a State Military School, and again recur to the subject." Finally there was organized at the University of California, the Battalion of University Cadets. It was a part of the National Guard, reporting to the Adjutant General of California, who furnished the arms, and commissioned the officers. The custom at the University of California of inviting the Adjutant General of the State to present commissions to the cadet officers in the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) is a survival from this institution.

In 1880 the curriculum of the Cadet Corps included a study of " Codes and Regulations Governing the National Guard of California." The names of officers of the University Cadets were carried on the roster of the National Guard. In 1888 there were a number of officers in the California National Guard, often in technical staff positions, who began their military service in the University Cadets. Officers of the National Guard served as instructors at military academies, also; and these academies sometimes provided officers for the National Guard. In 1888 a graduate of St. Augustine's Military College was Assistant Adjutant General with the rank of colonel.

There were also cadet companies, at times attached to regiments. The cadet company of the San Francisco High School, in 1892 was attached to the First Infantry Regiment, and on May 20, 1892, a cadet company was authorized to be attached to the Second Artillery Regiment. A cadet company was mustered into service at Santa Rosa in June, 1885, and attached to the Fifth Infantry Regiment as Company "E." In. 1886 a cadet company at Modesto was attached to the Sixth Infantry Battalion. That same year "the cadet company of the Third Infantry was made a regular company." The exact nature of these cadet companies at that time is not clear; but they did furnish some officers to the National Guard. They certainly were not the same as the early cadet companies, such as the Sacramento Cadets organized in 1856, or the Placer Cadets organized in 1865; these were line companies of the National Guard, like any other, except in designation. The institution of cadet companies in the California National Guard was not continued after the War with Spain, except in the University of California. But the cadet system appears to have been a helpful asset. In 1896 the University Cadets furnished two field officers on brigade staffs and an officer to the Naval Battalion. A former cadet from a military academy was a regimental commander. Two staff officers of field rank and a lieutenant commander in the Naval Militia came from cadet companies.

One of the most important moves to strengthen the military spirit in this State and to awaken waning patriotism and love of the Flag and to furnish a young, virile and trained asset to the country, in case it should be needed in a time of national stress, was the passage of the high school cadet bill by the California Legislature of 1911. After a fairly careful but hasty study of the military educational systems of the countries of Europe and of Japan, in 1910, where splendid military reserve systems are maintained by those governments, the undersigned, with the approval of the Governor, prepared a bill during the last days of the session providing for the formation of high school cadet organizations and which bill was passed and subsequently signed by the Commander-in-Chief. Only enough money was appropriated to experiment with the measure. The experiment has proved such a success as to justify an increase in the appropriation by the Legislature of 1913 somewhat in proportion to the importance of the movement.

In 1911, General E. A. Forbes introduced the concept of providing military training to high school students, resulting in California's pioneering High School Cadet Law. This groundbreaking initiative aimed to blend education and military training under the state's military department's supervision, with boards of education and school principals responsible for its execution. The focus was on instilling qualities like self-reliance, teamwork, discipline, and respect for authority, alongside physical fitness and mental agility. Yearly training camps led by experienced officers further enhanced their skills and discipline. Rifle practice camps and championships were introduced to promote marksmanship and safety. The program's success prompted federal involvement and garnered legislative praise for its contributions to preparedness and citizenship.

This organization supplements Junior ROTC in seven high schools unable to obtain ROTC units due to federal funding limitations. With a drastic reduction in companies and bands since ROTC introduction, success hinges on uniform provision. The state's allocation falls short, and efforts to secure federal uniforms have failed. The existing state military law diverges from national law in several aspects, prompting a study of all states' laws and the development of a new military code. Proposed changes are not drastic.

The High School Cadet Corps is active in six schools: Sacramento, Fresno, Porterville, Dinuba, Oroville, and Galt. During this reporting period, Shasta Union High School withdrew its membership, and Galt High School was accepted. Porterville Union High School received silk national and state flags for having the most proficient Cadet Corps during the 1926-1927 and 1927-1928 school years, as determined by a Regular Army officer's inspection. State High School Cadet encampments were held in Fresno in 1927 and 1928, with approximately 450 cadets at each camp. Rifle and small bore competitions took place at the State Target Range in Leona Heights, and awards were given for excellence in marksmanship.

High school cadet units are maintained in Sacramento, Galt, Fresno, Dinuba, Porterville, and Oroville. No additions or losses occurred during the reporting period. Sacramento High School received a plaque for its proficient cadet corps in the 1928-1929 school year, as determined by a regular army officer's inspection. In 1929-1930, Fresno Technical High School's cadets were recognized as the most proficient and received a set of colors. Annual encampments took place in Fresno in 1929 and Camp McQuaide, Capitola, in 1930, fostering enthusiasm among the 339 attending cadets and seven commandants. Rifle and small bore competitions at the State Rifle Range awarded Fresno High School the Adjutant General's trophy for high team score. Individual awards were also presented.

In various cities, including Sacramento, Fresno, Dinuba, Porterville, Oroville, and Anaheim, high school cadet units have been maintained over the years. While Anaheim welcomed its unit in September 1930, the Galt Joint Union High School unit was disbanded in July 1931 due to not meeting standards. Recognizing proficiency, Sacramento High School units received silk guidons for 1930-1931. The following year, Oroville and Dinuba High Schools shared top honors. Annual encampments in 1931 and 1932 saw cadet officers taking on more responsibilities, fostering discipline and self-sufficiency. Dinuba's Service Company earned an excellent mark for the year. In 1931, Fresno High School secured the Adjutant General's Trophy during the rifle match, accompanied by individual accolades.

The California High School Cadet Corps reached a significant milestone during its 35-year history at the 1946 annual encampment held at Fort Ord. Approximately 650 cadets, representing various schools, earned the wholehearted endorsement of seasoned military observers. They displayed remarkable alertness, a genuine interest in learning, and a strong sense of leadership responsibility. The credit for these high standards primarily goes to the dedicated local commandants and their year-round instructional efforts. Building on this solid foundation, the Cadet Corps anticipates further progress in nurturing the state's future leaders with values such as citizenship, self-discipline, and unwavering loyalty, particularly crucial in these challenging times.

At the beginning of the biennial period, California Cadet Corps had 182 schools in its program. However, by the end of the period, 45 schools were lost, leaving 137 schools with 237 Cadet Corps units and 31 battalion headquarters detachments. A proposal to reorganize the program into four regions was considered. Budget constraints led to the removal of supervisors, with liaison officers from the Commandants Association coordinating activities regionally. The California Army National Guard, Air National Guard, and California National Guard Reserve conducted inspections in the 1960 school year, impressing many inspecting officers unfamiliar with the program. Over 50 years, the Corps grew from 17 schools and 1,500 cadets in 1911 to 122 schools and 6,515 cadets. The program emphasizes leadership, citizenship, physical fitness, and marksmanship.

In the summer of 1962, the California Cadet Corps, led by Captain Jerry Oates, embarked on its annual Summer Encampment at Camp Arcade in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The author, a Cadet Master Sergeant, played a unique role due to his extraordinary typing skills, which he acquired after an unexpected detour from algebra class. During the encampment, a sun-soaked outing to Long Lake resulted in sunstroke and a stomach ailment caused by the consumption of canned peaches "procured" from the kitchen. A journey to the outhouses and a subsequent stretcher ride to the first aid tent ensued. Despite this setback, the Cadet Corps experience left a lasting impression on the author, shaping his view of sun exposure and instilling lessons of moderation. In retrospect, the encampment was a memorable chapter in the history of the California Cadet Corps, illustrating both the challenges and camaraderie of this educational program.

In the late 1960s, the California Cadet Corps faced shifts in funding and structure. After losing state funding in 1965-66, it was reinstated in 1966 but proved insufficient for a full-time staff. The introduction of an Assistant Executive Officer in November 1966 was followed by an Executive Officer and Administration Technician in December. Concerns about program sustainability led to budgetary restrictions in January 1967. In 1967, additional funding and enrollment strategy changes followed. Leadership transitions and uniform upgrades aimed to improve functionality and cost-effectiveness. The Cadet Corps continued its annual inspections, introduced Superior ratings, and participated in rifle matches. Community service awards and Cadet Major Awards were reinstated, while Commandant Conferences provided training.

Harding Academy, a long-standing military institution, ceased operations after 38 years. The decision to close was marked by sadness, reflecting declining enrollment and economic challenges. The superintendent, Col. William G. Harding, Jr., acknowledged the decline since 1962 and the uphill battle to sustain the institution. Economic factors, such as cutbacks at Aerojet and the rise of subsidized parochial schools, contributed to its demise. Harding Academy's tuition costs, significantly higher than local parochial schools, posed a challenge. Despite efforts to adapt, the institution couldn't overcome these challenges, closing its doors in September.

The California Cadet Corps underwent significant changes between 1970 and 1974. It reorganized into six cadet brigades in 1971 and 1972, each responsible for specific geographical areas. The title "Commandant" was given to the head, and the Executive Officer became second in command. Uniforms remained largely consistent, with minor changes. Female cadets introduced a new uniform in 1973. Enrollment numbers were limited due to funding constraints, particularly affecting private schools. Funding primarily covered uniforms, training, and equipment. Individual awards recognized outstanding cadets. Annual General Inspections and rifle matches evolved to be more inclusive. The Cadet Corps held its first state summer encampment in 1973, expanding its scope of instruction. National Guard Bureau evaluation allowed eligible cadets to enlist in the CAL ARNG with higher pay grades.

The California Cadet Corps (CCCC), founded in 1911, develops leadership and citizenship qualities in youth. Organized into seven cadet brigades, it engaged 3,800 cadets by 1982. They participated in rifle matches, camps, and leadership training. Despite budget cuts in 1982, a contingency plan aimed to save the program. CCC alumni often pursued military careers, attending service academies or joining reserve components. The CCC won national awards in 1979 and 1981, demonstrating its value. Advocates hoped to preserve this program, aiding California National Guard recruitment.

The California Cadet Corps (CACC) comprises 55 school units, an essential part of the curriculum. Local school boards and principals decide each unit's role, emphasizing its recognition as a dropout prevention program by the State Department of Education. The CACC forms six brigades responsible for cadre participation in state-level activities. The state provides guidance, structure, and uniforms. Key annual activities include marksmanship championships, individual awards, drill championships, and summer camp, fostering leadership development. Despite setbacks like funding cuts in 1982, the CACC aims to secure school and community support, serve the youth, and provide a recruitment source for the California National Guard.

With a membership of 3,000, including 25% females, the California Cadet Corps (CACC) actively promotes membership and familiarization with the California National Guard. The CACC operates in 57 senior and junior high schools across the state, offering a unique educational experience for students not typically engaged in school programs. Many cadets find motivation and purpose in CACC, using it as a catalyst for academic success. Recognized by the State Department of Education as a school-based dropout prevention program, the CACC takes pride in positively shaping California's youth and preparing them for future National Guard service.

The California Cadet Corps (CACC) comprises 57 units, organized into six brigades representing different geographical areas of the state. These brigades collaboratively plan training schedules to optimize the experience for all cadets. The CACC, under the guidance of the California Military Department, offers uniforms and regalia, facilitating program operations. Notable annual activities include the State Marksmanship Championship, State Drill Championship, Outstanding Cadet-of-the-Year Program, and Cadet Corps summer camp, fostering camaraderie among cadets from various brigades. This program benefits 57 senior and junior high schools by engaging students who may not typically participate in school activities, acting as a valuable dropout prevention program recognized by the State Department of Education.

Monroe Junior High School in Inglewood is home to a reinvigorated California Cadet Corps program, an 81-year-old initiative now thriving in inner-city schools. Introduced to instill self-discipline, structure, and an alternative to gang culture, the program has already attracted nearly one-third of the school's 800 students. With 58 participating schools in California, including 22 in the Los Angeles Unified School District, this military-based program provides a positive sense of identity and structure for young people, fostering leadership and citizenship while addressing issues like fatherlessness and school dropouts. Academic success and community service are essential components, reinforcing a sense of purpose.

The California Cadet Corps, founded in 1911 to offer crucial leadership training to secondary school students, faced a severe setback in its mission when funding was abruptly eliminated in the Fiscal Year 1992-1993 Budget. This unfortunate turn of events disrupted the program's effectiveness as a successful dropout prevention initiative. Prior to this budget cut, the Cadet Corps had been making significant strides, annually accommodating a student cohort of 7,000. The sudden removal of financial support posed a critical challenge to the program's continuity and forced a period of reevaluation and adaptation to ensure its survival and effectiveness in the years to come.

Governor Jerry Brown celebrated the California Cadet Corps' 100th anniversary at the Los Alamitos Joint Forces Training Base. The Cadet Corps, akin to Junior ROTC, instills leadership and patriotism in students from elementary to college levels. In his speech, Governor Brown expressed gratitude for their youth development role. He also advocated for a special election to approve tax extensions, emphasizing a common purpose. Brown swore in Col. David Baldwin as California National Guard head, overseeing 16,600 Army National Guard and 4,800 Air National Guard members. Col. Matthew Beevers became assistant adjunct general, and James Gabrielli was promoted to brigadier general in the California State Military Reserve.

In 2013, a significant milestone marked the return of the California Cadet Corps' Summer Encampment. This cherished tradition had temporarily faded due to budget constraints but made a triumphant comeback. The encampment provided cadets with invaluable experiences, including outdoor training, leadership development, and teamwork. It served as a beacon of commitment to the program's growth and the enrichment of young lives. As cadets gathered once more for this time-honored event, it underscored the enduring spirit and resilience of the California Cadet Corps in shaping future leaders and fostering personal growth.

Today, the California Cadet Corps stands as a beacon of leadership, discipline, and camaraderie. The program has evolved, showcasing a myriad of exciting events. The Individual Major Awards recognize exceptional cadets, while the Cadet-of-the-Year competition highlights the best among them. The XTreme Team Challenge, with its ten dynamic events, fosters teamwork and resilience. Drill expertise takes center stage in the Drill Competition, featuring individual, squad, color guard, and platoon categories. The Summer Camp is a highlight, offering 14 diverse advanced units like Medic, Drill Instructor, Cyber, Mountaineering, and Marksmanship. These contemporary elements reflect the program's commitment to shaping well-rounded leaders for tomorrow.