Exciting Times for ROTC Cadets at Redstone Arsenal!
Huntsville, AL – On a crisp November morning, about 80 determined ROTC cadets took to the deep underbrush at Redstone Arsenal for a day filled with challenging training exercises. With the sun shining and spirits high, these young leaders were ready to tackle land navigation and situational training, all while gearing up for their future military careers.
“This is a rare opportunity for us,” said Lt. Col. Early Howard Jr., the ROTC department chair at Alabama A&M University. “We’ve got 60 cadets from our Bulldog Battalion, alongside students from the University of North Alabama and Athens State University.” The joint training exercise brought together participants from various schools, including the University of North Alabama (UNA), marking a significant moment as these programs are set to merge in 2026.
The Importance of Training
Training is a must for all ROTC cadets across the nation, as emphasized by Sgt. 1st Class Nicholas Schoemann, the operations noncommissioned officer of the Bulldog Battalion. “This training is crucial because it is a mandatory graduation and commissioning requirement,” he explained. The cadets will also refine their skills for the upcoming Joint Field Training Exercise at Fort Moore, Georgia, next spring, where they’ll collaborate with other university ROTC brigades.
As the cadets navigated the treacherous terrain on Thursday, they encountered challenges that tested their skills and teamwork. After an intense land navigation session, they gathered around a massive oak tree for some inspirational words from Command Sgt. Maj. Dylan Lemasters who said, “Everything starts and ends with leadership. It’s important that you guys build trust. If you don’t have trust, nothing else happens.” His message resonated with the cadets, reminding them that strong bonds are the key to success.
A Welcome Visitor
In a delightful twist, Garrison Commander Col. Erin Eike made her way to the cadets to share her insights. “I think, as leaders, we owe it to develop our next generation,” she remarked. “Honestly, speaking with the cadets today is more beneficial to me than to them. It’s an awesome collaboration, and I’m really excited for the opportunity.” Her visit energized the cadets, who appreciated her engagement and encouragement.
Cadets Share Their Experiences
The excitement in the air was palpable, especially for cadets like Bethany Cantrell from UNA. She left Florence at the crack of dawn, ready to experience something new. “It’s not quite what I expected, which is refreshing to be honest,” she said. “The thick brush made this land navigation the toughest I’ve ever faced, but high morale keeps us motivated!”
Stephen O’Neil, another cadet from A&M, felt that collaboration was at the heart of this exercise. “We weren’t sure if our plans would hold up, but we’ve just worked together the best we can to integrate with UNA and their team. It’s been a great training experience.”
Meanwhile, Damien Dixon shared his thoughts on teamwork. “At the end of the day we are all cadets,” he said. “No matter how we feel about each other, as we work together, our bonds become tighter.”
Under the Stars
After a long day filled with skill-building and camaraderie, the cadets settled in for the night under the stars, preparing for another day of rigorous training ahead.
It’s clear that the ROTC cadets at Redstone Arsenal are not just building military skills, but also forming friendships and learning valuable lessons in leadership, teamwork, and trust. As they continue their journey together, it’s exciting to see the future of our military leadership unfold before us!
