The cadets meet Active Duty officers from Whiteman AFB on career day. They learn about the various career fields as well as what it is like to be an officer.
After completing all of the necessary applications, interviews and medical examinations I was accepted into Air Force ROTC at the University of Missouri – Columbia, Detachment 440. The first several weeks of Leadership Lab seemed like stepping into a completely different world. Though the Cadre and POC cadets were very helpful and patient, all of the information that was being directed my way seemed overwhelming at times. However, as the weeks passed by and I got to know the different cadets within my class and those in the classes above me, and things seemed less and less difficult to handle.
Over the following months I learned more than I thought there was to know about ROTC. My fellow freshman cadets and I learned the basics of drill and ceremony, customs and courtesies, chain of command, and many other topics. In addition to these more ceremonial skills, we were introduced to AEF (Air Expeditionary Force) training. This consisted of field exercises ranging from land navigation and radio communication to combat maneuvers and self aid buddy care. From time to time the memorization and execution of these new skills seemed to be out of my grasp, but with instruction and guidance from the more experienced cadets I was always able to succeed.
The cadets practice self-aid buddy care. In the field, Airmen must be able to perform life-saving procedures to stabilize the injured as they wait for emergency medical personnel.
Along with the new skills we were acquiring, we were introduced to regular PT sessions. Entering the program the physical fitness levels of the different cadets ranged from exceptional to below average. However, as a cohesive group we were able to motivate and elevate every cadet to a new level of fitness. For some it was a struggle to reach higher standards, while for others it was a challenge to pull those below them up to a new level. Every cadet functioned as a link in a chain, not only enabling everyone to rise together, but requiring this unified advancement. We learned that physical fitness was not an isolated pursuit, but that its challenges and lessons applied to all aspects of our training.
Cadets learn drill because military drill teaches attention to detail and self-discipline
Through all of these challenges I have come to understand my place within the Air Force, and within the military as a whole. I understand that my purpose is not simply to advance, but to lead, not simply to follow, but to support. Every member of the Air Force serves a vital function, whether it be the cadets preparing for entry into active duty, or those already serving, we all must strive for excellence. This first year of Air Force ROTC has instilled me with true confidence in my ability, and the ability of those who I will serve with. I look forward to the years to come and the challenges that I will face from this point onward.
Cadet Fourth-Class Thomas Spearing
