Army ROTC

By Cadet Diego Sheng

Branch/Career Reveal 

On Nov. 30, 2022, Army cadets graduating in May 2023 received their Army branch assignments. Branch reveal night is an exciting and highly anticipated event for Army ROTC cadets nationwide. After years of studying military science and rigorous field and physical training, cadets are finally assigned to their future jobs in the Army. The night began for our New River Battalion (NRB) MS IV's and V’s as they gathered in the McBryde Hall auditorium, brimming with nervous energy. After an agonizing countdown, the cadets opened envelopes containing their branch. The auditorium filled with cheers and hugs as cadets learned what they would be doing for the next phase of their careers. Later, NRB cadre members handed out branch insignia, accompanied by cheers. Branch night was full of camaraderie and pride, as our NRB cadets took one of their final steps towards commissioning. Congratulations! 

Staff Ride Feb. 25, 2023 

In February, senior Army cadets conducted a historical study of the Civil War Battle of Sailor’s Creek and Battle of Appomattox that included a preliminary study phase, an extensive field study phase on the actual historic sites, and an integration phase to capture the lessons derived from each.  

Senior Army cadets spent several weeks learning about the Battle of Sailor’s Creek and the Confederacy’s last stand at Appomattox, and visited Sailor’s Creek in Rice, Virginia and Appomattox Court House to walk the battlefields and learn about where the Civil War war came to an end. With a focus on the leadership tactics used in the battle, the staff ride served as an extension of the leadership lessons taught throughout four years of Army training. Historians from the Army Combat Studies Institute led cadets throughout the staff ride to help them understand decisions made by key leaders in the battle and how to learn from those lessons as future officers. 

Sgt. Maj. Gentles Command Selection 

Congratulations to our very own Chief Military Science Instructor, Sgt. Maj. Sharlton Gentles. Gentles has been selected to become the command sergeant major of the 2nd Battalion, 13th Infantry at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. He will complete his time as the New River Battalion’s sergeant major and move to Fort Jackson this summer. 

Spring Field Training Exercise 

From March 30 to April 2, the New River Battalion conducted its spring field training exercise (FTX) at Fort Barfoot, Virginia. The FTX serves as an intense and immersive training event to provide cadets with experience in the field and help them develop the skills necessary to become effective leaders in the Army. During this FTX, cadets participated in many activities, including tactical lanes, land navigation, and a field leadership reaction course, providing them valuable experience in military operations which developed their leadership skills and teamwork. 

On March 30, NRB cadets slated to attend Army ROTC Advanced Camp this summer conducted M4 rifle marksmanship training on how to handle and operate firearms safely. The training allowed them to demonstrate proficiency while conducting a zero and “pop-up” qualification range. Many cadets were also able to use close combat optics as part of the training. 

Battle drills during tactical lanes were another critical component of the FTX. These simulated military operations required cadets to work together as part of a team to achieve a military objective. Battle drills tested leadership abilities, decision-making skills, and the ability to work under pressure. Through these drills, cadets learned to communicate effectively, make quick decisions, and adapt to changing situations. 

Another key part of FTX was land navigation which taught cadets how to navigate through unfamiliar terrain using a map and compass. An essential skill for military leaders, land navigation allows operations in remote or hostile environments where GPS may not be available. Land navigation requires a high degree of skill and attention to detail, as cadets must navigate through rough terrain and other obstacles to reach their objectives. 

The FTX also provided an opportunity for cadets to build a sense of camaraderie and teamwork. By working closely with their peers, cadets develop a sense of trust and mutual respect that is essential to their success in the military. They also learn to rely on each other for support and to work together to achieve common goals. 

Overall, the FTX is an essential part of New River Battalion training regimen, providing cadets with a realistic and immersive training that prepares them for the challenge of Army Advanced Camp and their future careers as officers. Through marksmanship training, battle drills, land navigation, and teamwork exercises, cadets gained valuable experience and developed the skills necessary to succeed in the military.