The benefits of a Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corp (ROTC) program for local high schools will be explained during a public forum this Thursday, organized by the Navy League.

The Naval Junior ROTC public forum is scheduled for 6 p.m., Feb. 2, at the Best Western Mainstay Inn, 151 Admiral Kalbfus Rd., Newport.

Middletown Councilor Chris Semonelli has been involved in discussions about the program. “A Naval JROTC Program would not only build character but also help build a strong sense of service to community and country among our high school students. If they continue on they can pursue wonderful careers in the service and if they decide not to continue in the program, they will have established a set of skills that are extremely valuable for the future,” wrote Semonelli in a blog post for Patch.

A regional approach to the Naval Jr. ROTC program is being considered, and Semonelli notes that the program has been discussed at Middletown School Committee meetings, as well as interest expressed by members of the Portsmouth School Committee, the Tiverton School Committee and the regional MET School in Newport.

The program for Thursday’s meeting includes a presenation about the program, which as well as a question-and-answer period, and refreshments, according to George Wardwell, National Vice President, Navy League of the United States.

The Navy League of the United States, a nonprofit organization, supports the Sea Services, Navy, Coast Guard, Marine Corp and Merchant Marine; its youth program includes support for the Naval Sea Cadet and Naval League Cadet program; Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corp (NJROTC) and Young Marines.

For information, contact Wardwell at 401-619-3899.