Indy Standard

At Arsenal Technical High School, the JROTC Color Guard is drawing attention after performing at major national events, including the NBA Finals and the WNBA All-Star Game during June and July. Under the guidance of Master Sergeant (Ret.) Brian Giacobbe, students have brought back experiences from these high-profile appearances to inspire their peers throughout the school year.

Senior Elizabeth Hernandez-Olvera, Class of 2026, reflected on her time with the Color Guard. “I joined the Color Guard because I always liked how the Army would present the colors at big events,” she said. “Performing at the NBA Finals was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I remember calling my mom the moment I found out—we were all so excited.” She added that her involvement has boosted her leadership and confidence: “Our instructors tell us to ‘be confident in who you are, what you represent, and what you stand for.’ I carry that with me everywhere.”

Syndra Araniva, Class of 2027, described joining as transformative. “Being in the Color Guard made me more confident,” she said. “At first, it was hard being the center of attention, but now I can speak up, perform, and even help others learn what Color Guard represents.” She plans to pursue welding after graduation and hopes to share her skills with others.

Master Sergeant Giacobbe emphasized that success goes beyond formations and public appearances. “Each year we watch quiet cadets turn into confident leaders,” he said. “Color Guard teaches them poise under pressure and the courage to lead from the front. It proves that young women can lead with pride, precision, and power.”

The Army JROTC program has been active in Indianapolis Public Schools since 1919—first at Arsenal Tech—and continues today at Crispus Attucks, George Washington, and Shortridge high schools. Established nationally by the National Defense Act of 1916, JROTC aims to develop leadership and citizenship rather than serve as a recruitment tool. Nationwide nearly 300,000 students participate in JROTC programs each year; about half are female.

Looking ahead to a busy season, Giacobbe said: “Our Color Guard will continue to practice and perform right up until the Christmas break,” adding that they plan to maintain their partnership with the Indiana Pacers this season while also appearing at local events.

Upcoming engagements include school sporting events, a Veterans Day ceremony at Rolls-Royce’s Indianapolis facility, and participation in next month’s ISSHA Girls Volleyball Championship at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

“Over the course of the school year, our cadets make about 75 appearances,” Giacobbe said. About 30 students take part in any given event; teams may be mixed or single-gender depending on circumstances but most are mixed—with a majority of female cadets.

In addition to performances around Indianapolis, members compete both locally and regionally.

Giacobbe concluded by noting that every performance offers an opportunity for cadets to demonstrate leadership and teamwork—values they aim to embody both on campus and before wider audiences.