The Culmination of an Underclassmen Cadet: Field Training

As the new year begins, many cadets here at Detachment 415 are transitioning into new roles.  No such transition compares to that of the underclassmen to upperclassmen, GMC (general military course) to POC (professional officer course), the culmination of 2 years of training.  This is achieved upon successful completion of our ROTC equivalent of basic training, Field Training. Field training is designed to evaluate cadets' leadership potential and discipline.  Most days start around 4:00 a.m. and end around 9:00 p.m.  Cadets are tested in physical fitness, drill, the Field Training Manual and the Airman's Manual.  Failure in any of these areas results in being sent home.  The first half is housed in-garrison at Maxwell Air Force Base, in Alabama. The second phase includes a 14-day mock deployment to Camp Shelby, Mississippi.  Here cadets are put to the test in field work and a simulated down-range environment.

Upon arrival, cadets are placed into a flight of roughly 20 other cadets from all across the country. Over the next 27 days, these cadets grow both physically and mentally together as their skills are put to the test.  The friendships and bonds created down at Field Training are of those to last a lifetime.

After a long month of training, cadets are able to take part in a pass and review graduation ceremony. After stepping across the distinguished Air Force emblem during the parade, they have officially entered into the Professional Officer Course.

"It's the most fun you never want to have again."