A common issue debated in the media today is whether or not the recruitment of young men and women into the Army appears harder to come by in this day and age because of world events. The same issue could also apply to Army ROTC enrollment at the U, and other like institutions throughout the United States.
One thing that can be generally counted on in the state of Utah, as a whole, is still an overwhelming sense of patriotism. This tremendous sense of pride and love for America spills over into the Army ROTC program with young men and women enrolling to become effective leaders as Army Officers.
What’s completely amazing and simply admirable is that these same young men and women know exactly what they want, knowing full well the possible implications of serving in today’s Army. Hats should go off to them, as well as their friends and families (unfortunately often overlooked), who support them.
The factors which have historically made Army ROTC the broadest path by which a young man or young woman can earn a commission, and serve our nation as an Army officer, are as strong as ever.
Army ROTC remains the largest single source of commissioned officers for America’s Army. It is the college elective that teaches decision-making, management skills, leadership and discipline that will enhance the student’s future success in either a military or a civilian career.
For several years, Army ROTC was asked to produce a total of 3,900 lieutenants annually. In 2003, the program commissioned a total of 3,950 officers. In 2004, Army ROTC produced a total of 4,408 officers. For 2005, the program substantially exceeded the established goal by commissioning a total of 4,178 lieutenants. In 2006, we produced a total of 4,050 officers for America’s Army.
In 2006, the annual commissioning mission for the Army ROTC program was increased to 4,500. Cadet Command, the parent organization of the Army ROTC program, is working hard to ensure that the increased commissioning mission is met.
President Ronald Reagan once said, “Some people wonder all their lives if they made a difference. The Marines don’t have that problem.” In truth, this can be said of anyone serving in today’s United States Armed Forces.
Maj. Jeffrey Charles Knight is an executive officer at the U’s Army ROTC.