Weekend warriors
The Army ROTC program allows students unique opportunities – from riding in military helicopters to roughing it in the woods – all while gaining hands-on leadership skills and Army tactics training.
Many think that the ROTC program is all rigorous military training and drilling.
However, this is not the case, according to Greg Losce, a sophomore history major and a cadet with the ROTC program.
“It was a lot of fun, and to tell the truth, I thought it was going to be like boot camp when I first signed on,” Losce said. “Everyone has been very open and accepting, along with being helpful. To top this off, I feel a very big sense of camaraderie among my fellow cadets, who not only provide help in the program, but academically as well.”
Over 60 cadets of the ROTC program’s Golden Griffin Battalion took their training outside the classroom. Flying to their training site in Franklinville, N.Y. in three Chinook helicopters, they tested their leadership skills, soldier tasks and drills.
The benefits of the ROTC program are abundant, according to Catherine Deren, a senior exercise science major and public affairs officer for the ROTC program at UB. She said the training and skills acquired through the program can help a person get through school and life.
“You can build leadership skills and become more of a strong-willed and responsible person,” Deren said. “It also helps you to think on your feet and builds your résumé for the future. School definitely becomes more manageable with the skills you derive from it.”
Learning helpful skills, having a good time, and engaging in a unique experience are all part of the ROTC program. However, Avery Schneider, a senior English major and cadet, says that it isn’t easy.
“You need to have good willpower and commitment when considering joining,” Schneider said. “Along with this, you must also have the desire to better yourself, be open to new things, and see the world from a different perspective.”
Maj. Jamey Barcomb, junior class advisor and assistant professor of military science for the program, was very pleased with the training event and was impressed by the high level of motivation and teamwork displayed by all the participants throughout the weekend.
“I only wish more college students would consider taking advantage of this training,” Barcomb said. “Unfortunately, most students don’t realize the unique opportunity available to them by participating in ROTC. Any student can take military science and leadership their first two years without any obligation. It is just another college class, the classes are free, and all materials are provided by the program.”
Full-time students interested in the military science and leadership class for the spring semester can register online or call 716-888-3239 and speak with Lt. Col. Rebecca Sparacino with any questions about the program.
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