ROTC Returns to Campus
SALISBURY, MD--- After an absence of nearly a decade, the Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) has returned to Salisbury University. The program is directed by SU alumnus David Engelman (’05), a 1st lieutenant in the U.S. Army.
“ROTC greatly enhanced my understanding of military tactics and leadership,” said Engelman, who participated for two years while earning his B.A. in political science. “The support and excellent instruction gave me the tools I needed to lead in Iraq.”
Since becoming a commissioned officer through ROTC, Engelman has served as platoon leader for the Bravo Company 1-175th Infantry Regiment in White Oak, MD. He organized and led more than 50 combat missions during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He is currently pursuing an M.B.A. through SU’s Franklin P. Perdue School of Business.
Engelman was selected to lead SU’s ROTC program following a student–driven demand for its re-establishment. Twelve students enrolled, surpassing the minimum number needed to hold classes on campus.
Freshman Brittany Hatley of Rosamond, CA, is one of those students.
“The army help pays for school and guarantees me a job when I graduate, not to mention all the life skills you learn like leadership, teamwork and discipline,” she said. “Having classes right on campus gives cadets more flexible schedules. ROTC teaches how to be a strong and influential leader, and the training stays with you even after leaving the Army for the ‘real world’.”
Graduate student Miguel Fragueiro of Rockville, MD, enjoys the program because “it separates you from the average college graduate.”
“ROTC prepares you for handling pressure and making good decisions at the right times,” he said. “You get hands on training and are given responsibility from day one. You are in charge of people who are looking to you to provide guidance, leadership and reassurance that everything is going to be ok.”
While earning his B.A. in interpersonal communication, Fragueiro (’05) made the lengthy drive to Delaware State University, and sometimes to the University of Delaware (UD), to participate in ROTC. Now, he and other students benefit from classes at SU.
“Having classes on campus provides students with a strong group of classmates, an opportunity to get involved with SU and tuition-free college,” Engelman said. SU’s ROTC program is a chapter of UD’s. In exchange for two-, three- or four-year scholarships, textbook and monthly stipends, students serve eight years in the Army.
There are four military science courses being offered at SU. In addition, cadets attend physical training work-outs three days a week and a leadership development course at Ft. Lewis, WA. All students are invited to apply. For enrollment information, call 410-677-0275 or visit Caruthers Hall Room 202.
During Homecoming Weekend, all past and present participants of ROTC are invited to an ROTC Family Picnic from noon-3 p.m. on Sunday, October 19, in the Alumni House Garden. Bring pictures and share adventures since graduation. Cost is $10 and pre-registration is required. For more information call 410-543-6042 or visit the SU Alumni Office Web site at http://alumni.salisbury.edu.