“Over the course of four years, the Huskie Battalion enabled me to complete Air Assault School, Combat Survival Training, and attend a very competitive paid internship with the United States Army JAG Corps.”
Douglas Reisinger
Cleveland, OH
ROTC Offers Many Opportunities to Excel
In Army ROTC, it's not all classroom and field training. There are many opportunities
for you to get to know your fellow cadets better and increase your skills in a variety
of areas. Learn more about these events and activities below.
Ranger Challenge
The Ranger Challenge is an opportunity for schools to "compete" with each other
completing military tasks. In addition to a written examination where Cadets
test their Army knowledge, there are physical fitness drills and field exercises.
Battalions leave a Ranger Challenge with stronger bonds and sharper skills.
Pershing Rifles
The National Society of Pershing Rifles gives Army ROTC Cadets the opportunity
to develop to the highest degree possible. Cadets can take part in precision
trick rifle drill teams that provide them with the outstanding traits of
leadership, military bearing and discipline.
A New Lieutenant Has His Rank Pinned By His Parents
On graduation day, an ROTC cadet reaches the climax of their ROTC career during their commissioning ceremony. At this ceremony, a cadet is “commissioned” as an officer during the ceremony. The cadet is sworn in by an officer and receives their rank from family and friends.
Color Guard
The heart of every major event at NIU and the surrounding community is epitomized by the posting of the Colors and the National Anthem. The ROTC Color Guard has been representing the Huskie Battalion at sporting events and local community services since the inception of military instruction at NIU. Any ROTC Cadet can participate in the Color Guard and earn the privilege of posting the Colors.