NJROTC gets new commander

By Haley Link

As a logistics officer in the United States Navy, Commander Curtis Irby traveled to places as far away as Bahrain and Japan. Retired Commander Irby has started a new journey using his 25 years of experience to teach over 100 NJROTC cadets how to dream big.

“One thing I’ve enjoyed the most is the energy from the kids—the ones that want to dream, and dream big,” Commander Irby said.

Commander Irby said he wants to teach the cadets that they don’t have to stick with one career path or choice.

“One thing I want the kids to know after a time of working with me [is] that there are options,” Commander Irby said.

Senior Petty Officer First Class Cheyanne Woodard said that she is impressed with Commander Irby’s method of teaching.

“He doesn’t let us get away with horse playing, joking; he always wants the seniors to be cadets that the freshman look up to,” Cheyanne said.

Senior Chief Petty Officer Melvin Wade said that a change of leadership takes some time getting used to because the past commander had a different teaching style. Melvin said that Commander Irby uses quotes to motivate and to teach the cadets.

Commander Irby learned about the NJROTC opening from Commander Lance Teillon, the previous instructor. He said that teaching young men and women is exactly what he wanted to do.

Board substitute Hunter Wallace, who teaches third and fourth class NJROTC, has helped Commander Irby adjust to a school environment.

“Commander Irby does an excellent job, and I would think he had prior teaching experience,” Mr. Wallace said. “He has control over the class, and I am quite impressed.”

Outside of teaching NJROTC, Commander Irby likes to spend time with his wife and five children ages 24, 16, 15, 5 and 16 months.

Senior Commanding Officer Parrish Hall, who plans to enlist in the Army after college, said Commander Irby’s help and past experience will make him ready for his dream.

“Commander Irby is a Blue and Gold officer for the Naval Academy, so he can help me get into college by teaching me the things I need to know,” Parrish said.