Comments and Testimonials

The Liberty High School NJROTC program is a citizenship and leadership development course and is the only one of its kind in the Issaquah School District!   We are very proud of the program and the positive impact it can have on the participating students!  Below are just a few of the comments we've received from parents, counselors, teachers, community members, cadets, etc.

"Captain and Chief, Words cannot express my gratitude for your support and mentorship of (my son and daughter) over these past several years.  You have been such a positive influence in their lives.  I have seen both of them grow and challenge themselves in new and exciting ways.  In many ways this is due to your tremendous influence.  The above and beyond ways you show up for our kids and this program are truly appreciated.  Your commitment to growing young people of courage, conviction, and character is beyond admirable."  Parent of a LHS NJROTC Graduate 

"Captain and Chief,  Words can never experss enough of our gratitude and respect  for all your hard work and dedication to the kids.  You both are the very best of people and we are so grateful fo all that you do."  Parent of a LHS NJROTC Graduate

"I not only want to thank you for doing such a wonderful job at the assembly, but also for the hundred other ways you and your program positively impact Liberty.  Thank you for your service, not only to our Nation, but for your continued service to our students and community."  Liberty High School Principal

"Thank you very much for the time and dedication you put into the NJROTC program and to every cadet here.  The efforts you make on a daily basis do not and did not go unnoticed, and I thank you very much for my experience in this program"  Liberty NJROTC Cadet

"This past year, being in the NJROTC program has been an amazing experience for me, and I am incredibly thankful.  The way that I instantly had friends, even before school started made a huge impact for me.  The atmosphere you have created in the classroom is one that I will not forget."  Liberty NJROTC Cadet

"I've never seen another program like NJROTC before.  I really enjoyed all the great activities we have done this year and I have learned so much from this program.  To teaching us every weekday, attending our CyberPatriot competitions, and pushing us to put in our all, I appreciate all you do for us.  It was a pleasure being in your class and I am looking forward to next year."  Liberty NJROTC Cadet

"I went into Awards Night not knowing what was coming or how anything was going to work.  It's safe to say I was shocked that I went out of the auditorium with three awards.  I never imagined myself joining NJROTC, but then I signed up.  My thoughts going into NJROTC were "It gets me a PE credit", and "I get to wear a really cool uniform."  From day one, NJROTC has blown my mind with how you accept people with open arms and push us past our comfort zones.  At first I was afraid to join any teams or become really involved.  Yet all that changed after my first Physical Training (PT) practice where I got to meet so many people who pushed me.  Going to PT practice sparked something in me to become involved and start joining teams.  I am so grateful for this amazing opportunity you both have given me and others.  I truly cannot wait for next year.  Thank you!"  Liberty NJROTC Cadet

"It's been such a joy to see (our cadet) grow in skill and confidence these past 4 years!  (They) are well prepared to take on the the next chapter of (their) life.  Grateful to this wonderful program and all it does to grow and develop young people. "  Parent of an NJRTOC Cadet

"Words can never express enough of our gratitude and respect for all of your hard work and dedication to the kids.  You both are the very best of people and we are so grateful for all that you do."   Parents of a LHS NJROTC Graduate

"I was so grateful and happy inside being around these gallant and honorable young people.  It made our day to be around them.  You have exquisite and chivalrous youngsters in your organization and you can absolutely be proud of them"   Issaquah Resident

"I know I really appreciate all that NJROTC does for the LHS culture and surrounding community.  I salute you and the cadets!"   Member of the LHS Counseling Department

"Of all the 13 years of school I've completed, you (Captain and Chief) are among the short list of teachers I will wholeheartedly remember and carry lessons from.  Because of the program environment you've helped to create, you're able to reach students past teaching them textbook ideas and lead them to set themselves up for success, so long as they put in the effort as well.  Teachers are not parents, but you two have done a phenomenal job of raising myself and my peers to be functioning young adults, no matter if you realize that range of success or not."   Liberty NJROTC Graduate  

"It was a pleasure hosting (one of your cadets) for our Coast Guard Reserve weekend on August 14, 2022.  They joined our Coast Guard Prevention department for an advancement ceremony for our prior Senior Reserve Officer advancing from Lieutenant Commander to Commander.  They had the opportunity to explore the Base Medical Facility, Small Boat Station, Vessel Traffic Service and Base Facilities at Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound.  They conducted themselves with true professionalism and honor!  Thank you for heading up such an amazing program for Liberty High School.  I hope you continue the great work that you do!"   Active Duty Member of the US Coast Guard

"I learned so much from NJROTC and from you (Captain) and Chief.  I know I am a better man because of your influence on me.  Learning how to be a follower as well as being accountable for myself are just the surface of what I learned from you and the program.  I am forever grateful for you and Chief."  Liberty NJROTC Graduate 

"We as parents of Seniors, appreciate the visible change in our kids over the last four years.  We recognize that the Liberty NJROTC program, and the two of you (Captain Deehr and Chief Spears) played a big factor in the outcome of students getting accepted to the Citadel, The Naval Academy, Embry Riddle, and others.  We watched our kids go from timid freshmen to young adults commanding a Platoon or even an entire Company in a very short period of time.  Watched them work together, helping each other literally at all hours of the day and night, and becoming good friends outside of school."  Parent of a NJROTC Graduate

"You (Captain Deehr and Chief Spears) hold cadets to high standards and for that we thank you.  You both teach them self-discipline over self-esteem by completely embodying those values.  They are instilled in the cadets through your example."  Parent of a NJROTC Graduate

"I was very impressed with the awards ceremony and, more importantly, with the leadership and contribution that you and the Chief are making in Liberty's NJROTC program.  It was evident throughout, and especially from the parents' comments, the significant difference you are making in the upbringing of the young men and women in your unit.  You are doing something truly useful in life...something that counts and makes a difference... Thank you for your leadership!"  Local Community Member

"NJROTC made me the person I am today, and set me on the path to my future."  Liberty NJROTC Graduate  

"I wanted to drop you a quick email and say thank you for the last four years of working with (our daughter)! The support you offered us (her) over the last 4 years through all of the different things that came up has been wonderful and appreciated.  We will miss you!  I wish you all the best going forward and hopefully I can convince (our next daughter) to join the NJROTC program the year after next!"  Parent of a LHS NJROTC Graduate

"Thursday night, when we returned home from the Change of Command ceremony, our son checked his email.  In it was a message from the CO of the UW NROTC unit congratulating him on his ROTC scholarship.  The official Navy scholarship offer email came the next morning... I wanted to express my appreciation for all you do for my kids, as well as the others in your program.  We wouldn’t be here if Chief hadn’t told him to sign up (for NJROTC)  at the picnic his freshman year."  Parent of a LHS NJRTOC Cadet

"Please pass on a thank you and job well done by one of your cadets.  A young man was involved in sending Christmas cards to residents in senior independent living facilities during Christmas, who were in a lockdown status because of Covid-19.  My mom, who lives in University House, Issaquah was one of the recipients.  I want you to know that the simple act of a card with a handwritten note by a stranger touched her greatly.  In these strange times we are living, it is comforting to know that kindness and caring are not forgotten.  Of course, from a person who will hopefully become one of our future leaders in the military, I don't find  this kind of action out of character.  In fact, it's what I would expect from the type of young adults who participate in the in the Navy Junior ROTC program.  Thank you again to your students."  An Issaquah Resident

"Thank you for the wonderful work you do with our students!  We are so lucky to have you and your program here at Liberty!"   Liberty High School Administrator

"Thank you for the help that NJROTC provided.  As I have stated in the past it would be very hard to safely put on Salmon Days without NJROTC.  Also, the Community Center was happy with the way we left the Rainier room and have already offered it to us for next year.  Again, thank you the great job NJROTC did and hopefully we can do it again next year."  Sergeant, Issaquah Police Department

"I just wanted to let you (Captain and Chief) both know that today I received a phone call from my lieutenant informing me that I picked up the three-year NROTC scholarship!   Thank you both so much for helping me along this journey.  From the letters of recommendation to your lessons on leadership, everything you have given me has helped to get me where I am today.  I am so thankful to have had you both as my instructors.  I hope all is well and you start off the school year strong."   Former LHS NJROTC Cadet

"We can’t express our gratitude enough, for all you have done for (our daughter).  She absolutely wishes she could do both JNROTC and attend her new school...  She said you are So KIND.  We cannot agree enough.  She said you have been so good to her.  We cannot agree more.  She said you are such good people.  We cannot agree more...  We pray the best for you all this year.  Your sacrifice and service will always be honored and valued to our family.  May God bless you always. - Parent of a Former Cadet

"Our family wants to express our sincere gratitude for being a teacher, mentor, and role model for (our son) in the past four years of his high school journey.  What he has learned from NJROTC will carry with him for a lifetime.  We are thankful that you are part of his life and shaping him into adulthood."  Parent of a LHS NJROTC Graduate

"Joining NJROTC was definitely one of the best decisions I made during my time in high school, not only for the career benefits but also for the community.  Cadets were always people I knew would have my back if I ever needed help.  The culture of serving your community and your classmates was something I think didn't hit me as hard then as it does now (that I have graduated and moved on), and now that I understand it I think it's essential for the average high school youth.  NJROTC provides an excellent way for students to understand those values of service.   Thank you for being an excellent Senior Naval Science Instructor.  You and Chief's leadership, as well as the fantastic cadet staff have all had a significant impact on the man I am today."  A Liberty NJROTC Graduate

"This unit has had such a positive impact on my life.  Thank you for all the opportunities throughout the years and all the support along the way"  A Liberty NJROTC Graduate

(During Covid-19 Pandemic) "What a major challenging time!  You guys and your kids are doing amazing in this online platform!  Kudos to you all!"  Parent of a Liberty NJROTC Cadet

(During Covid-19 Pandemic)  "I have had so many of my students tell me that your program is essential to their well-being right now.  I just wanted to take a minute to say how much I appreciate all that you have done (including last spring!) and are continuing to do to keep the kids engaged, learning, and feeling like they are important. This means so very much to our students!  You guys are awesome!  Thank you!"  LHS Counselor

"Thank you for your support, confidence and dedication to my son.  His father and I are very aware that his future goals and aspirations are hugely in part due to your leadership, training and support of our son.  We are very grateful for that.  He is the last of our children and the only one who is leaving high school with a clear goal in mind for what he wants to do with his future."  Parent of a Liberty NJROTC Cadet

"I wanted to say thank you so much for everything you’ve done for me over the past four years.  You have both been incredible role models to me, and I’m so grateful to have had you as instructors.  You’ve shaped me into a much better leader, you’ve helped me get through the hardest moments of my life, and most importantly you’ve helped me inspire others."  A Liberty NJROTC Cadet

"Thank you both for all your efforts in putting together a great program this evening. It was wonderful to see all of the cadets hard work recognized.  That wouldn't be possible without your leadership. I am so thankful and grateful that (our children) get to learn from such fantastic people like both of you."   Parent of a Liberty NJROTC Cadet

"Thank you both for all the opportunities you provide these kiddos.  I appreciate you as part of our village.  Blessings."  Parent of a Liberty NJROTC Cadet

(During Covid-19 Pandemic) "Captain Deehr has provided invaluable online Physical Training for his cadets. This has been the only real structured activity that (our daughter) has been so encouraged by.  They work out together for one hour 2X per week- even during spring break!   I'm telling you, as a mom of 3, this has really helped (our daughter's ) mental health!  And it has also encouraged us as well.  Very inspirational!  Thank you!"  Parent of a Liberty NJROTC Cadet

"ROTC is my favorite thing about Liberty!  I've learned several things that will help me in life, primarily leadership and self-discipline.  I will continue to grow as a person."  A Liberty NJROTC Cadet

"Such a wonderful change of command ceremony last night!  So many great things are happening in Patriot company.  I'm so excited for (our daughter and son) to be a part of it.  I've watched them both grow and change tremendously over the past year.  So much of that is due to this program's influence.  Thank you for all the work that you do!"  Parent of two NJROTC Cadets

"This program has opened so many doors for our two boys, and I hope we can help pay it forward. Go Navy!"  Donor to the LHS NJROTC Program

"I wanted to thank you both so much for everything you have done throughout the school year.  I have watched (my daughter) grow so much in her confidence this year.  Thank you for being supportive in encouraging her and giving her opportunities to challenge herself in overcoming some of her anxieties.  Public speaking, and learning new skills physically, mentally, and emotionally.  I am so very grateful to you both!  I was so surprised and proud when (she) received her awards this year(: So Happy.  Chief you have been a household name here, (our daughter) looks up to you and talks about you all the time.  I appreciate you taking the time to get to know her and believe in her as I do!  Thank you Thank you!"  Parent of a LHS NJROTC Cadet

"I am always pleased to participate in Liberty High’s NJROTC awards program.  Seeing that group of young people with their wonderful combination of enthusiasm, team spirit, commitment and discipline always raises my spirits and gives me hope for the future of America.  You, your staff and NJROTC cadets are to be commended for an important job well done. "  Local Community Member

“I wanted to let you know how much both my husband and I enjoyed the presentation by Captain Deehr. We both learned that everything we thought we knew about high school JROTC was incorrect.  My husband enjoyed the presentation by Captain Deehr so much that he asked him if he would be interested in speaking to his Bellevue Rotary Club."  Bellevue Rotary Member 

"Captain Deehr and Chief Spears are to be commended for being exemplary role models for all NJROTC cadets.  They not only talk about excellence, they demonstrate it every day.  They consistently go above and beyond to help the cadets in their self-improvement and leadership endeavors and have built a powerful and cohesive community of cadets, parents and staff.  The district is lucky to have them!"  Parent of a LHS NJROTC Cadet. 

"Congrats on your rave review guys, I couldn’t agree more with how amazing you are for the NJROTC program.  Hope your year has gone great, it’s nice to see others recognize your awesome work with Liberty students."  Former LHS Assistant Principal  

"Congratulations on your Rave Review today!  I am happy (someone) took time to recognize the hard work you do with your students every day.  I have been so impressed by the manner in which all NJROTC students conduct themselves.  Your leadership pays off now and I’m certain will have long-lasting positive results for each of these young men and women as they go forward in life.  Your dedication is admirable."  LHS Administrator 

"I really appreciate this information!  I was born in and grew up in (another country), and we don't really have programs like NJROTC in our high schools, so all of this has been a learning process for me!  I absolutely love having cadets in my classes, and I love how the program serves the school and the community... Please know that I'm a huge supporter of what you do!"  Liberty High School Teacher

"Please pencil me in for the March 7th incoming freshman night.  I'd be happy to speak with parents who may be wondering what your true goals are.  Keep up the good work!  You still have the best program on campus and in the district!"  Parent of a LHS NJROTC Cadet

"I am writing concerning the military honors given (my husband) on June 30, 2018.  The gun salute provided by your unit was a great honor due him... (Your unit) performs a great service for veterans and their families, and we are most grateful."  An Issaquah Resident

"(We) LOVE what you and your kids do!  Anything that gives kids a sense of purpose and helps them find themselves is a good investment in our opinions.  Wishing you much success in this year’s activities!"  Donor to the LHS NJROTC Program

"Thank you so much for all you and Chief do for the NJROTC program and students at Liberty. This program has already made a significant and positive impact for our son and for our family.  He's open that he wishes all classes at Liberty had the same student expectations as NJROTC....  He came back from this weekend proud and excited to tell us about his experience at Basic Leadership Training."  Parent of a LHS NJROTC Cadet

“NJROTC has already helped (our daughter).  We are taking no part in her caring for her uniform yet she takes much better care of it than any other article of clothing she's ever had.  Thank you again for your time and dedication.”  Parent of a LHS NJROTC Cadet

“This may be beyond professional but I'll let it rip anyway!  I LOVE YOU GUYS!!!!!  I am SOOOOO HAPPY that my daughter is having this experience focused on self-discipline and earned esteem.  Thank you!!!!”  Parent of a LHS NJROTC Cadet

“Just wanted to say hello and thank you for the email about going over grades with the cadets. It is nice to have another voice in the importance of making sure that my student is staying focused on keeping up her school work and the importance in keeping her grades in check!  I appreciate it.”  Parent of a LHS NJROTC Cadet

(NJROTC is the) “Best investment in our nation’s future I can think of.  I wish I could just send my taxes straight to the program."  Donor to the LHS NJROTC Program

“I wanted to say thank you to (all the NJROTC Cadets) who supported our Veteran's Day chapel this morning.  It was an outstanding group of young men and women who provided such a vital piece to our assembly.  We are very appreciative.  Thank you!”  Renton Christian School

“Thank YOU for all the great opportunities and leadership you provide.”  Parent of a LHS NJROTC Cadet

Regarding Basic Leadership Training (BLT) – “Thank you so much for providing this wonderful opportunity.  (Our son) had a blast.”  Parent of a LHS NJROTC Cadet

“I just wanted to take a moment to say thank you to both of you! I have had several kids over the past couple of weeks come in and talk with me about the fabulous things happening in NJROTC!  I love that the older students are nurturing and helping to guide the younger students in regard to grades, classes, and overall good mental health!  It is wonderful to see the leadership skills that these kids are developing and just as wonderful to see how the younger kids are responding to the extra care and concern!  Thank you for all that you are doing to foster such a warm, comfortable and honest space for these kids!!  It is greatly appreciated!”   Liberty High School Counselor

“Thank you so much for nominating (my daughter) and giving her the opportunity to be recognized at Rotary.  I sincerely appreciate your positive influence and am so proud of how far she has come.  Thank you!”  Parent of a LHS NJROTC Cadet

“I saw the pictures from the review that (were) posted and I wanted to congratulate you all on a great job!  I have a number of students that participate in NJROTC and it shows. Mostly I notice they understand the word respect.  When, or if, they do step out of line and I talk to them about it, that it when I see this. They listen and respond respectfully to criticism, not something you see a lot in this age group!  Thanks for all your work.”  Liberty High School Teacher

“(Our Daughter) told me you are getting a dance instructor in to teach the kids ballroom dance.  You and Matt are my new heroes!  You guys are really rocking this class!  I cannot tell you how happy I am to hear you are doing this!  Jumping up and down clapping and screaming with joy.”  Parent of a LHS NJROTC Cadet

"Really enjoyed spending time with your cadets.  Well behaved and polite. Just can't say enough about them.  It gives me hope for the future of our country with young men and woman like this in it."  Local Renton, WA. Business Owner

"... thank you so much for all your great work with our cadets this year... you have handled (this year) like a pro and managed to make such a significant impact on the lives of the kids at the same time... (Our son) in particular, has greatly appreciated all your guidance and practical input as he looks ahead to a career with the Navy.  No doubt, you have been a significant contributor to that decision."  Parent of an NJROTC Cadet

"I just wanted to say thank you for all NJROTC does for the school.  Even cleaning up our grounds with over 300 pounds of garbage!  I’m sure the cadets had fun being together doing it, but I know it can be a thankless job so I wanted to make sure you and they know it’s appreciated."  Liberty High School Counselor 

"The things he was learning (in the NJROTC program) were more than merely academics. He was learning about character, and commitment.  What it means to not give up and to press into things when they appear to difficult... NJROTC was building him as an individual, and NJROTC was building all the cadets as a team...  NJROTC truly is about preparing cadets as individuals and equipping them with the necessary life skills....Our son now believed in himself.  He realized grades are important, but character is for life. There is so much more that can be said but we just want to finish this letter with a thank you.  Through all that (our son) has endured and who he has become in this short time speaks volumes of what this NJROTC program did for him.  We are proud of him as parents, and thankful for who he has become as a young man.  With so much negative influence in society today, it is a blessing to have a program with such positive influence.  Thank you Captain Deehr, Chief Spears and NJROTC."  Parents of a LHS NJROTC Cadet

"Thank you both for a great evening last night.  (Our daughter) is very proud and appreciative to have received as many awards as she did.  I know she has worked hard, but she is also very fortunate to have found both of you and the NJROTC program."  Parent of a LHS NJROTC Cadet 

"NJROTC was so great for (our daughter).  She found her tribe and gained a lot of confidence.  She always talked about how much Captain and Chief helped her in a life coach kind of way so thank you so much!  It's easy to see how much you care about the kids and that it's more than just a job for you both."  Parent of a LHS NJROTC Cadet 

"My daughter has had wonderful experiences under your leadership and I would like to first, commend you for delivering an excellent program and two, offer to participate in some way." Parent of a LHS NJROTC Cadet