Navy helicopter lands on high school baseball field in rare Fleet Week demonstration that inspires hundreds of NJROTC cadets to consider military service.
At a Glance
- An MH-60S Knighthawk helicopter landed at Benjamin N. Cardozo High School as part of Fleet Week celebrations
- Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal officers performed a fast-rope demonstration for nearly 300 student cadets
- The event was the first of its kind for NYC schools in at least a decade and took four years to plan
- Cardozo’s NJROTC program is one of the fastest-growing in the country, comprising 23% of the student body
- The demonstration highlighted diverse military career paths beyond traditional sea operations
A Dream Four Years in the Making
Benjamin N. Cardozo High School in Bayside made history during Fleet Week when the Navy landed an MH-60S Knighthawk helicopter on the school’s baseball field. The unprecedented event marked the first time in at least a decade that such a demonstration occurred at a New York City school. For the NJROTC program at Cardozo, this was the culmination of four years of planning and coordination with naval authorities. The demonstration provided nearly 300 cadets with a firsthand look at military operations that many had only read about in textbooks or seen in recruitment videos.
“Last year, we went to Fleet Week. This year, they brought Fleet Week to us,” said Riddhi Chauhan, a student who aspires to become a nuclear engineer for the Navy.
Elite Demonstrations Captivate Young Cadets
The highlight of the event was a dramatic fast-rope exercise performed by the Navy’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit. Students watched in awe as specially trained officers descended from the hovering helicopter using only rope and their own strength. The EOD unit, which specializes in neutralizing explosive threats in various environments, showcased the technical and physical skills required for their high-stakes profession. This demonstration particularly resonated with students interested in science and engineering, aligning with Cardozo’s strong academic programs in these fields.
“It’s huge. Just seeing everyone coming together for an event like this, it means the world to know that we’re all here for each other. We are one big family,” said Shanelle Kelly, who is excited about a future with the Marine Warfare Unit.
Building America’s Military Future
Cardozo High School’s NJROTC program has become one of the fastest-growing in the nation, now comprising approximately 23% of the school’s student body. The program provides structure, discipline, and leadership training that benefits cadets regardless of whether they ultimately pursue military careers. While many participants plan to serve, others value the program for its character development and college preparation aspects. The program has created a tight-knit community within the school that transcends typical high school social dynamics.
“I do want to have that moment in my career where I serve my country and give back,” shared Bhaswi Singh, reflecting the patriotic sentiment common among many cadets.
Beyond the Stereotypes
A key objective of the Fleet Week demonstration was to dispel common misconceptions about naval service. Many students were surprised to learn about the diverse range of career paths available beyond traditional shipboard roles.
The event highlighted specialties in aviation, explosive ordnance disposal, engineering, medicine, and other technical fields. Navy representatives emphasized that modern military service often involves advanced education and specialized training in STEM disciplines, appealing to academically-minded students who might not have previously considered military careers.
For many of these young cadets, the helicopter landing represented more than just an exciting spectacle—it was a glimpse into potential futures and career paths that combine service to country with technical expertise. As Fleet Week continues throughout New York City, the impact of this demonstration will likely inspire a new generation of service members from one of the city’s premier NJROTC programs.
