From the Marine Corps to high school NJROTC instructor, Cardozo’s Senior Naval Science Instructor, Major Moore, brightens the halls of Cardozo with his positive attitude every day. Having over 40 years of experience instructing, Major Moore effortlessly maintains cadets’ morale and enthusiasm for learning. His unique student-led teaching style creates opportunities to grow and a class atmosphere that cadets look forward to.
Major Moore’s position for the NJROTC program is well-known. He educates the upperclassmen in leadership, and often has his cadets help with system work, aiding their ability to work the systems on their own. By teaching cadets how to lead, Major Moore not only ensures they uphold the standards, but creates role models for first year cadets, as well as helping the upperclassmen progress in their own journey in the NJROTC program.
“I try really hard to keep a good environment in our class and for our cadets,” Major Moore said. Whether it’s a simple fist bump or motivational words, Major Moore always manages to bring positivity to the cadets. “In fact that’s the other reason why I love being an instructor,” he explained. We always tell the upperclassmen cadets to set an example.”
“Most of the cadets will not join the military in the future, so I think this is just a great life lesson to get when they join our unit,” Major Moore continued. “Know your people and look out for their well-being: Understand your team members and show genuine care for their welfare.”
Looking back on his experience in the military, Major Moore explained how he was always proud to sport uniform. “I loved the Marines. I enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1976,” he said. “That was 49 years ago. In fact this April 22nd 2026, will make 50 years wearing the marines uniform.”
“I love it,” he exclaimed. “I wouldn’t be doing what I’m doing today if I didn’t absolutely adore it.” Major’s passion to serve came from the encouragement of his parents and said, “it was truly a blessing in disguise.”
The beginning of Major Moore’s career as an instructor started at Tottenville High School. “I got my orders to come here to New York,” he reflected. “I was in Garden City when I served my first 20 years, they just so happened to have a Marine Corps JROTC instructor opening. I really liked it, and then I did 20 years at Freeport High School.”
“Coming to Cardozo was without a doubt a great capstone in my career,” Major Moore added.
On Veterans Day, Major Moore marched down 5th Avenue from 26th Street to 48th Street in Manhattan for the Veterans Day Parade, alongside a hundred NJROTC cadets.
“From a kid that grew up in a small town outside of Chicago, Illinois, in the suburbs with around 25,000 people, we didn’t have a big celebration or parade on Veterans Day,” Major Moore said. “For me to come to New York City and to be there walking down 5th Avenue with a hundred of our cadets and all the other JROTC units and seeing my other instructors, my fellow veterans, it’s beyond humbling.”
Major Moore also shared a great deal of gratitude for his career. “I am almost stunned with how lucky I am to be doing what I’m doing,” he said. “Serving with the cadets that we have, I couldn’t have a higher honor.”
