ROTC Offers Many Opportunities to Excel
In Army ROTC, it's not all classroom and field training. There are many opportunities
for you to get to know your fellow cadets better and increase your skills in a variety
of areas. Learn more about these events and activities below.
Ranger Challenge
The Ranger Challenge is an opportunity for schools to "compete" with each other
completing military tasks. In addition to a written examination where Cadets
test their Army knowledge, there are physical fitness drills and field exercises.
Battalions leave a Ranger Challenge with stronger bonds and sharper skills.
Pershing Rifles
The National Society of Pershing Rifles gives Army ROTC Cadets the opportunity
to develop to the highest degree possible. Cadets can take part in precision
trick rifle drill teams that provide them with the outstanding traits of
leadership, military bearing and discipline.
Fall Field Training Exercise (FTX)
Cadets attend a three day FTX during the
fall quarter usually at another location. The last couple of years the
Bobcat Battalion flew to Camp Dawson, WV. The cadets participated in the
obstacle course, weapons familiarization, squad competitions, living in the
barracks, and eating Army food.
Ranger Challenge Competition, Fort Knox, KY
Ranger Challenge is the ultimate test of
a cadet’s physical and mental capability. The 10 person cadet teams train
for a little over a month prior to attending the competition at Fort Knox,
KY. On competition day, the cadets wake about 0300 (3 AM) to take the
Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). After a quick trip back to the
barracks, the cadets begin a round robin of the events. The events
include patrolling, one rope bridge, weapons assembly / disassembly, weapons
qualification, the hand grenade assault course, and land navigation. The
competition ends with a 10K (6.2 mile) ruck march.
Senior Branching Ceremony
The United States Army classifies their
branch of service by the use of branch insignia. The branch insignia is a
distinctive devise of metal and enamel worn on each officer’s uniform.
The branch insignia has evolved into a logical symbol that represents the
duties and responsibilities of the particular branch. The insignia is
designed to develop esprit de corps and morale within each branch. Ohio
University marks this special occasion with a special ceremony for the
seniors.
Gettysburg Battle Staff Ride
Every senior cadet is required to
complete a Battle Staff Ride or a report on a battle. The Bobcat
Battalion believes the cadet can obtain more information and insight if they
are on the battlefield. The purpose of this event is not to become a
tour. Each cadet is given a significant person or event in the battle and
must become that person in their explanation. They need to know why
actions were or were not taken and tie it into their success or failure during
the battle. The last two years the battalion explored two different sites
at Gettysburg.
Spring Field Training Exercise (FTX)
After their junior year, cadets attend
the Leadership Development Assessment Course at Fort Lewis, WA. Half of
your assessment comes from Small Unit Tactics. The Spring FTX is designed
to bring everything you have learned together in a three day field assessment
of your leadership. Some of the highlights include leading a patrol and
conducting raids.
Military Ball
The final major event of the year is the
Military Ball at the Baker Center. The cadets put on their Class A
uniforms and attend this formal dinner and awards ceremony. The senior
cadets receive the full Saber Arch when they are introduced. Families are
invented and encouraged to attend. This is a way for the Senior Cadets to
get together one more time prior to commissioning.
Commissioning
Three times a year, several cadets are
commissioned into the United States Army during ceremonies held on
campus. Families, friends, and many distinguished guests take part in
watching the new Second Lieutenants take their Oath of Office, pin the gold
bars on their uniform, and receive their first salute from a Non Commissioned
Officer of their choice.
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