ROTC ceremony 'acts as a motivator' for new students

by KATE JOHNSON
reporter

Thirty-one members of the Marshall University Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) Thundering Herd Battalion cadets were awarded for accomplishments including completion of basic camp, advanced camp, participation in color guard and Ranger Challenge, high grade point averages and winning campus scholarships in a ceremony Thursday afternoon.

"Today we are recognizing folks who have excelled," Lt. Col. Michael Scholl, Professor of Military Science, said. "The awards ceremony acts as a motivator to new students."

Lavalette junior Terry Adkins was awarded for having the top score at basic camp, a five-week training experience for college students. Cadets learn basic military skills through hands-on practice.

"Basic camp was fun and challenging," Adkins said. "It was overall a great experience."

Staying motivated, volunteering and getting things done the first time helped Adkins earn the top score, he said.

All cadets in the advanced course are required to attend advanced camp where thousands gather for a five-week training period. Advanced camp trains cadets and assesses their leadership abilities.

Cross Lanes senior Ron Hartley was recognized for his top score at advanced camp this summer and was named a distinguished military student. He said his training in the U.S. Army prior to attending Marshall helped him prepare for ROTC.

"ROTC teaches students to be a leader of people," Hartley said, holding his awards. "It's the best opportunity for leadership on campus."

Four two-year scholarships, three three-year scholarships and three four-year scholarships were awarded during the ceremony. Huntington senior Sonya Hurse was awarded a three-year scholarship.

"I have always wanted to be a part of the military," Hurse said. "I joined ROTC to obtain a degree and to be commissioned as an officer."

Members of the Ranger Challenge team were also recognized at the ceremony. The Ranger Challenge is an annual competition with area ROTC battalions. Cadets participate in eight events, including marksmanship, land navigation and one-rope bridges.

Senior Rodney Lipscomb, recognized for completing advanced camp, is the captain of the Ranger Challenge team. He has trained three years for the event and this year's challenge will be his second competition.

"The Ranger Challenge demands complete teamwork," Lipscomb said. "We work as a team and finish as a team."