Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Check out our Cadets expereince at JFTX as told by an MS1 and by an MS4
P5 / Commissioning
LTC Whitaker bids farewell the MS4s as they prepare to comission
P6 / Alumni Adice
RIT ROTC Alum give back by sharing advise with our Cadets.
Every year the Tiger Battalion conducts two field trianing exercises, one alone in the fall and the other in the spring with the Excelsior Battalion from Cornell University. Training with other Cadets from different schools is a great way to prepare our Cadets for LDAC and get experience working with Cadets who may have different perspectives. During field training the MS1 and MS2 Cadets act as squad members and take orders, MS3s lead them through the training, and the MS4s are responsible for planning the training. The following are two first hand experiences from MS1 Cadet, Maroni and MS4 Cadet, S3 Beaumont. MS1 Experience As an MS1 who had been to a Field Training Exercise before in the Fall, I was familiar with the routine for the JFTX. The MS3s in my Platoon made sure we were all ready for the PCI, they had us practice the layout at the Student Life Center and reminded us a thousand times to make sure our canteens and camelback were bone-dry. The actual PCI inspection went smoothly for me, I wasnt missing anything. When we arrived at Mt. Pleasant there was a lot of waiting around for the other battalion to show up, but we kept up
an MS1 you dont usually talk to MS4s unless youre in trouble The nights consisted of a lot of waiting around again. It got kind of cold, but we got to talk amongst our platoons for a while. The last day went pretty smoothly with FLRC exercises, we just had to follow our squads and complete challenges like making a bridge over a creek without talking, and getting all of our equipment over the obstacle. It was usually pretty fun and interesting. After that our battalions split up and went home our spirits. When the Excelsior Battalion arrived things started to get moving, and platoons split into our new garrison. I had very few RIT cadets in my platoon so I met a lot of new people but couldnt help but feel kind of cut off. Tents were going up and we saw where we would be sleeping for the weekend. Before long we started Land Navigation and that took up the whole day after getting a look at the terrain model and getting some tips and directions from the MS4s. Night Land Nav similarly took up the whole night, but we had some down time in between. I had fire-guard duty for the first night, so I didnt get much sleep, but it wasnt bad. The rest of the weekend consisted of STX and Patrolling lanes. We were woken up, told when to draw weapons and ammo and were told what we would be doing on which day. They fed us hot chow and everyone split up and left for the day to train. I had fun during the training, I was selected to be OPFOR, the enemy, so I got to rest and talk to MS4s for most of the two days of training. It was very interesting because as
and cleaned weapons for a little while. When I got back to my dorm I took a long shower. - Cadet Maroni MS4 Experience As the S3 for the spring quarter I was tasked to coordinate with Cornell and help plan the JFTX. This task started even before the spring quarter and only ended once we were on the bus ride home. Planning consisted of figuring out who would be in what squad, what positions the MS3s would be in and what jobs the MS4s would have
during the operation. This was not only an important JFTX because of my position but also because it is the last one I will have in ROTC. Since freshman year my experiences at JFTX have been different and more informative each time. This year was no different. Once we arrived at Cornell the Cornell S3 and myself immediately went to work to ensure all our planning was put into motion. Throughout the four days we encountered problems that arose and a constantly changing timeline that kept us on our feet. But by working together and using the skills we learned throughout ROTC all the problems were overcome. Out of all four years I learned the most on a JFTX this year having to manage but not micromanage a whole operation and continue to coordinate with my counterpart. Overall this year the JFTX ran smoothly and the MS3s, MS2s, and MS1s all received good training that allowed them to showcase their knowledge and skills to be ready for not only LDAC but their future in the military.
Since freshman year my experiences at JFTX have been different and more informative each time. This year was no different
2
garrison and tactical postions. IHere on campus we prepare them for this by conducting situational tactical exercises and land navigation regularly. This Spring, MS4 Cadet Josh Stafford was responsible for traiing and preparing the MS3s in their final quarter before LDAC. Here are his thoughts on their upcoming departure: All year the MS3s have put in many hours preparing for their time at Warrior Forge this summer. They have grown in many regards and have developed as leaders, showing their commitment to leading troops
and setting the example. It was a great pleasure to help and see them grow and gain confidence as they were tested in garrison and tactical positions. The JFTX with Cornell University was a great confidence booster to them all as they realized they could perform when the pressure was on, as was the latest APFT, scoring a class average of 293 out of 300. They all truly understand the definition of teamwork and will display great leadership, their peers at camp will seek to emulate. We know they will do great at camp, and will perform in a manner we are all proud of.
Commissioning
Cant wait to tackle it head on! Legooo - CDT Sarma
As Graduation approaches our seniors look forward to more than just their degree. Soon they will be commissioned as officers in the United States Army. Here are LTC Whitakers words on our commissoning class. I want to personally congratulate the nine graduating and commissioning Second Lieutenants from this excellent program. It has been four and for a select few, five long years of grueling training and professional development. They all started out being followers and through their hard work, commitment, and personal courage they transformed themselves into
leaders of this battalion. They have truly earned their bars and I am proud of each of them. The commissioning ceremony scheduled for the 18th of May 2013, marks the transition from cadet to second lieutenant which is a monumental moment for the new officers and all of their loved ones. Those commissioning are Joseph Beaumont (a.k.a. Ginger) studied International Studies, and branched Military Intelligence; Robert Horey (a.k.a. Apple Man) studied Civil Engineering Technology, and branched Engineers; James Humbert (a.k.a. John Deer) studied Mechanical Engineering and branched Engineers;
Michael Kurvach (a.k.a. Gump) studied Mechanical Engineering and branched Infantry; Blake Petersen (a.k.a. Shovel) studied Electrical Mechanical Engineering and branched Engineers; Zachary Pfister (a.k.a. AAFAK ) studied Biomedical Sciences and branched Engineers; Cody Smith (a.k.a. Mr UoR) studied Biomedical Engineering and branched Engineers; Dan Smith (a.k.a. Waldo) studied Finance and branched Air Defense Artillery; Amy Stafford (a.k.a. Pixels the Cat) studied Professional Photographic Illustration and branched Signal. LTC Whitaker
there so you get plenty of face time with your Troopers. Be prepared to spend some time in the S3 shop. Take this opportunity to learn as much as you can from the guys/gals who have been there and done that. Your 300 APFT score is a good attribute to have but it doesnt make your more marketable if you cant use your brain. You are your own career manager; you can drift with the needs of the Army or take command of your own Career. IE there are numerous other options then taking the typical career route. PL, XO, Staff, Staff, Command, Staff, XO/S3, Command, so on. Its not to early to start looking at your options and creating a career map. Sustainable systems that operate with minimal input are your keys to success. Work smarter not harder. Take every opportunity you get to do your best and talk to some
military budget disappearing, deployments will be hard to come by. Take your captains career course early if possible. Get your necessary schooling done ASAP. It will set you apart for promotions if you dont get that deployment. If youre a ARNG or USAR soldier looking for a mobilization or ADOS orders because your unit has no future mission slated, a good source is Tour of Duty, which can be accessed via AKO. When it comes to doing your new job, ask a lot of questions. Its okay if you screw up once because youre a hotshot but do not make the same mistake twice. You will lose credibility. Your time as a junior officer is your time to learn how to do your job and how to lead. 1LT Ta (Dixon)
1LT Kanerva
After ROTC I attended MIBOLC in Ft Huachuca, AZ. If you branch MI, make sure you get your TS clearance taken care of ASAP or you wont be able to graduate. If you have the opportunity to take on additional duties or compete for badges/medals at BOLC make sure you do so. I walked away with a Gold GAFPB ( German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge) and an MOVSM (Military Outstanding Valunteer Service Model) simply by working a few extra hours a week. Chest candy sets LTs apart. After BOLC make sure you are tracking your accomplishments so you can write your OER support form. As far as promotions go, 2LT to 1LT is automatic, but to promote to CPT you will need some solid OERs and military/civilian education. With the
For the Cadets, current and future, my recommendation and advice to them is to listen to the NCOs in their unit. They will continue to develop you as you progress through your career. Absorb as much knowledge as possible. This will help your career both at home station and while deployed. Also, make sure to show your Soldiers that you care. Without your Soldiers you have no unit. When effort is needed from you to help them, give 100% always. 2LT Hopkins
Never sacrifice your integrity or the good of your Soldiers to please someone else. Listen to the Cadre and trust them, they will always take care of you if you do the right thing. You get out what you put into the program. If you dont enjoy it then youre not in the right place.
It has been an honor to have you to me, through both his words and in our lives, Master Sergeant. You actions, what it means to be a great leader . MSG Crichlows presence will never be forgotten. - BA will no doubt be dearly missed in the coming years. Master Sergeant gave me the motivation to keep pushing when - CDT Kellenberger I just wanted to quit, and made a huge difference in my life. - CDT Potega PT will never be the same without the occasional grunt/yell/cry/ hooah of motivation from Master Sergeant. It will be cold and quiet from now on. - CDT Spangler thing for you, just call on me. You have done a lot for the program and am glad to know that this commissioning Class are the one that you started and finish with, they all owe you a lot as well. Thanks, Brother Crichlow - Tibbit I am so grateful and thankful for the lessons MSG Crichlow has taught me on discipline, leadership, and the Army. I will never forget him and I swear I will never forget to clean the lounge. - CDT Kurvach
MSG Crichlow is one of the best Senior Non Commissioned Officers Ive ever had the pleasure serving with in the last 17 years; hes an outstanding leader, mentor, and always a consummate professional for every leader to emulate from. Hell truly be missed! - SFC Doyle MSG Chrichlow has been a steadfast source of leadership and guidance since he came to RIT. MSG could always be counted on to support us when we were down and set us straight when we were out of line. - CDT Humbert
me skills that will help me succeed as an officer. Thank you for all that youve done. - CDT Zdanowicz
Thanks for always pushing us to be the very best.- CDT Harris MSG, I wouldnt be where I am in this program if it wasnt for you. Thank you. - CDT Fournier Im not saying we will miss you at PT, but Im telling you getting smoked will never be the same. We will miss you! - CDT Natali Thank you for being my best friend and my worst nightmare. I wouldnt have made it through this program if it werent for your attentiveness and leadership. Also... please dont smoke me for sharing these fantastic images - CDT Stafford,A
You have been a positive influence and compassionate mentor for the Cadets that have walked through our door - I mean the Cadet Lounge door! We will miss you terribly. Best wishes, Tish - Tish Purcell Thank you for your selfless service not only to RIT Army ROTC but to a Nation. I hope that I can continue to bring your passion and sense of duty to my future missions and endeavors. You have impacted the lives of many and words cannot say how grateful we all are of having the chance to work with and learn from you. Good Luck, Stay Safe - CPT OBrien MSG Crichlow, soon to be BROTHER of the Retirement Club, I want to thank you so very much from the bottom of my heart for everything that you have done for us all in general and for the Corp of Cadets, they and us Cadre all love you. I personally am wishing you the BEST on your Retirement and if ever come a time that I can do any-
Someday in your late retirement years, youre gonna see one of us RIT Cadets receive a major award on TV and you can say to yourself I trained them well. Because you have; and I can only hope youd be as proud of us as we are proud to have called you our Master Sergeant. Congratulations, MSG. Enjoy your retirement.- CDT Myers MSG Crichlow, I would not be on the path I am today without your guidance and support. Thank you- CDT Provenzano Although I havent experienced the real Army for myself yet, I can confidently say youve taught
MSG Crichlow is an inspiring man. Rarely does one find a leaderwho can both command authority and respect while sincerely caring for those who follow him. Im glad to have been able to meet you. - CDT Gilmour
10