TUSKEGEES CADET ACTIVITIES

FTX/STX
Squad and joint training field exercises occur several times during the semester refining cadets tactical leadership skills, and increasing the cadets knowledge of Warrior Forge Training standards. The end-state is to achieve all objectives mastering squad-level operations. The cadet will be able to move to platoon-level troop leading procedures and operations. RANGER CHALLENGE
Twenty-six teams converged, from twenty-four colleges and universities to compete in the annual Ranger Challenge Competition. This competition was held on the grounds of Camp Shelby in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Camp Shelby has been the home to this competition for approximately 25 years and its rich tradition of excellence has evolved into the premier competition that ROTC has to offer.

Nine cadets are chosen each year to participate in this elite exercise. It is through rigorous training and commitment that these cadets gain the privilege of representing Tuskegee University at the annual Ranger Challenge Competition. A typical day for a Ranger Challenge cadet is as follows:

The day starts at 0530 a.m. and already these cadets are awaiting instruction underneath the plane at the Chappie James Arena. Rain, sleet, or snow, they’re there! After two hours of rigorous training they are released for a full day of classes. They may be dirty, tired, and maybe even a little hunger, but they endure it, for two months, and they “suck it up and drive on!”

The Ranger Challenge Competition consists of eight different events that are completed over the duration of two days: the One-Rope Bridge, Basic Rifle Marksmanship, the Patrolling Exam, the Physical Fitness Test, Orienteering, M-16 Weapons Disassembly, the Grenade Assault Course and, last but not least, a grueling 10K Road March. One has to be extremely focused and physically prepared to tackle such a task. Each of these eight events is rehearsed on the campus and they all hold a significant place in the culmination of the grading system at the competition.

COLOR GUARD
The “ceremonial escort for the American flag,” the Tiger Battalion Color Guard, has been an integral part of the Tiger battalion since its inception in 1918. This honor is bestowed upon cadets who exemplify exceptional characteristics of Army leadership and the upholding of the seven Army values each and everyday.
The Color Guard is responsible for participating in the opening ceremonies for the University Football games, the Military Dining In and Dining Out, the Military Ball, and other ceremonial activities that require our nations flag to be present. The Color Guard also marches in the Tuskegee University Homecoming Parade and the Veterans' Day Parade.

DRILL TEAM
The Drill Team is recognized as a highly efficient drill company that maintains disciple and esprit de corps in precise movements. The platoon maintains and operates with M-1 rifles and creates synchronized formations that exemplify the unit’s morale.
The Tiger Battalion Drill Team participates in many events. These events include Mardi Gras (New Orleans), the Tuskegee University Homecoming Parade, and the Veterans' Day Parade. The Drill Team also performs at the Military Dining In and Military Ball.

NATIONAL SOCIETY OF PERSHING RIFLES
Founded in 1894 by General of the Army John J. Pershing, the Society is a military social fraternity committed to the highest ideals of excellence in leadership and manhood. Tuskegee University Chapter is Company P, 4th Regiment. This organization has traditionally formed the “crack” drill team of the ROTC program from its members and given performances at various locations throughout the South. The highlights of each school year for members of Pershing Rifles are the annual drill competition and attendance of members at the National Convention held in one of the country’s large cities. Membership I s open to male students enrolled who after one semester have attained a minimum 2.8 grade point average. Members can be recognized by the blue and silver shoulder cord (the distinctive badge of elite cadets) worn on the left shoulder of their ROTC uniform.

NATIONAL SOCIETY OF PERSHING ANGELS
In 1964, a group of 30 ladies started a society at Morgan State College (now Morgan State University). It was not until February 9, 1965, that they were recognized as what is now the ONLY national drill sorority, The National Society of Pershing Angels. In 1997, along with the help of The National Society of Pershing Rifles located at Tuskegee University, Florida A&M was able to successfully charter the chapter now known as The National Society of Pershing Angels, Tuskegee University, Company P-4-5. The legacy of Pershing Angels at TU began with just 5 sisters and has grown over the years to include 37 sorors. The Society is a military-based drill sorority, whose areas of interest are drill, social and service. Today, the Pershing flame still burns at Tuskegee. The current active members as well as alumni are working hard to ensure it continues to be strong for many years to come.

ARMY PHYSICAL FITNESS TRAINING
In the Tiger Battalion, cadets face numerous challenges during physical training. Initially, these challenges seem impossible to overcome but along with a little motivation and mental determination, cadets often depart in peak physical condition to become successful lieutenants that “lead from the front!”
As an Army ROTC cadet, you will be expected to maintain good physical fitness. MS-I cadets (Freshmen) are required to attend Physical Training twice a week. MS-II and MS-III cadets (Sophomores & Juniors) are required to attend Physical Training three times a week. Physical Fitness uniforms will be provided by the Tiger Battalion Supply Sergeant. All cadets will be required to attain a minimum score of 180 points on the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). The APFT is given once a semester and will test not only your physical level of fitness, but also your abilities to mentally overcome obstacles.