The events that shocked the nation a year ago have been etched into the memories of every American citizen. Many Americans joined together in unity and support for their nation showing their pride in many different aspects. Yet the men and women in uniform that serve our country felt that pride even stronger. To members of the Air Force ROTC those uniforms become more then just a uniform it become a sense of purpose to them.
“Before 9/11 you put on the uniform and did not actually know but now you put on the uniform and you know that when you are commissioned to Active Duty what lies ahead,” said Kelson Chabak, Vice-Wing Commander. “In general everyone has a sense of pride now. I know personally that I sometimes felt like an oddball walking down campus with the uniform on but now days I love putting it on.”
First Lieutenant Cadet Ray Elmore said, “I think since 9/11 my commitment to the Air Force is much stronger then it was before. I have a sense of purpose now, not of revenge, but a sense to protect loved ones.”
The cadets of Air Force ROTC Detachment 207 went to classes and did their work devoting approximately three hours a week of their time to the ROTC training program.
The Air Force has not found it necessary to change any aspects of the training program but ROTC cadets have received additional supplements. Cadets are being assigned readings in terrorism and forced protection as a way to heighten their awareness and learn more about the rising concerns facing the nation and world today.
“Assignments such as these were probably not in the syllabus in previous years,” Elmore said. “What happened on 9/11 didn’t just suddenly happen.” Terrorism has been a growing threat and, “we are learning the history of terrorism and its effects.”
Since last September there has been an increase in the number of people joining ROTC. Detachment 207’s cadet core is up larger then ever, over 200 cadets from previously 165. After the attacks the
detachment started to see a number of new faces and many of them enlisted in the Air Force ROTC.
“The detachment has always worked together and as a team but after 9/11 the commodity was enhanced causing them to commit themselves for the greater good of defending the nation,” said Cadet Captain Jon Quilan, who is public affairs officer of Detachment 207.
In remembering the events of the past year, the detachment held a memorial on Wednesday during their leadership lab. The focus of the memorial was one of remembrance to those who died on 9/11 and well as to those who have lost their lives to the cause.
“We are moving on and dedicated to the cause of our commander in chief,” Quinlan said.
