Welcome to my blog ! The Spring 2012 semester has just started here at Penn State and as a second semester freshmen in Air Force ROTC I feel this past semester has prepared me well for what’s to come. Each semester Cadets are assigned to a different flight which both allows you to meet a variety of people in the detachment, and assume different leadership roles. We are, after all, working towards becoming a commissioned officer in the world's greatest Air Force. Last semester was difficult to say the least, and assimilating into the ROTC program and lifestyle was not something that came easily, but anything worth having is something worth working for. I want to be part of the United States Air Force because I have a deep respect for those in the armed forces, their sacrifices, and their commitment. That aside, it has amazing benefits and the career path I hope to pursue through the Air Force would make me an ideal candidate for a future career in national security either within a government agency or possibly the Department of State. I can’t wait to explore the world and with the Air Force you definitely have opportunities to travel. Most importantly, I want to be part of something bigger than myself−service before self. I plan on getting much involved this semester through joining Honor Guard, and also be more forthcoming when it comes to taking on a number of leadership roles. I’m still learning with each PT (physical training) session, class, and Leadership Lab, and in time I hope to have earned the right to stand beside my fellow cadets as we embark on this journey so few venture on. Overall, I am excited to start this semester off and equally excited to share my knowledge (and lack thereof as you may very well see) and experiences in the United States Air Force Reserve Officers Training Corps.
So how does ROTC work in terms of enlisting? Are you already technically signed up for the Air Force but this acts as part of your training?
ReplyDeleteMany students come into the program having won scholarships during high school and they are on contract through their four years in college and technically Reserve. I however am not on scholarship and I won’t be contracted until I go to Field Training. From there you take the Oath of Office and graduate as a commissioned officer. In doing ROTC you accumulate all the training and knowledge you would if you went to Basic Training and then Officer Candidate School. Therefore we do not go to Basic Training and instead do Field Training the summer after our sophomore year at Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama.
ReplyDeleteThis is something I personally would never do, but I truly admire you're determination and bravery. I wish you the best of luck and hope you reach your goals in ROTC!
ReplyDelete