The SAR awards the ROTC Medal to foster the principle of the "citizen-soldier", exemplified by the Minutemen of Revolutionary War days. This award is presented by a chapter, a state society, or the National Society to ROTC or JROTC cadets who are selected for having a high degree of merit with respect to leadership qualities, military bearing and general excellence. The recipients are selected by the Commanding Officer of the JROTC unit, who is given full latitude in making the selection.