CyberPatriot is the national cyber security game for high school students. Students act as security managers for an organization’s information system, defending against and counter attacking a cyber attack. Michigan City High School (MCHS) Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (MCJROTC) cadets competed on December 12th in the State Championship round. The national championship round is held in Washington, DC in the Spring.

Cadet Sergeant Jhonthan Ruiz, who has been on the team for three years, stated that this activity has been very beneficial to him. “This has been a great opportunity for me to exercise computer problem-solving skills. These competitions really challenge you to apply cyber skills.” Ruiz attended a week-long camp near Washington, DC, in the summer to hone his computer skills. That camp, like all JROTC activities, was done at no cost to the student. The Marine Corps provided all necessary funds, including transportation and lodging.

“Learning how to defend digital spaces and networks has been a great experience for me,” said Cadet Sergeant Dante Rojas, who also has competed for three years.

Major Tom McGrath, the Senior Marine Instructor, commended the cadets for taking the initiative to do this competition. “These cadets are really outstanding young men who have much going on. They are always seeking to improve themselves, and they saw this opportunity to improve their virtual skills.”

“Cadets Ruiz and Staples are also on our Drill Team,” said Master Sergeant Jeff Benak. “They have great time management to be able to balance this additional activity.”

Results from the competition will be released in late December.