The ROTC cadets based at Georgia Southern and Armstrong Atlantic State universities participated in Saturday’s leadership-development program on Fort Stewart, where they visited a live-fire range and took advantage of training opportunities.
Shortly before 2 p.m., the cadets arrived at the Red Cloud Multipurpose Range Complex and observed and interacted with 1st Armor Brigade Combat Team soldiers, who conducted the live-fire training exercise.
“I’ve been in the program for four years and that was a long journey, but it was well worth it,” said Cadet Capt. Staci Carr, who will graduate from Georgia Southern next month before being commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Army. “The program here is great. I really love it, and this opportunity that we got today was amazing, and we really appreciate that.”
First ABCT Commander Col. Robert P. Ashe invited the cadets to the exercise. In a briefing, he explained to the attendees what soldiers expected of them as leaders. He told them they’d make critical decisions to ensure the soldiers’ safety and the success of missions in garrison and combat environments.
Lt. Col. Gary S. Morea, GSU military-science professor and commander of the cadets, said it was important for the event participants to hear and internalize Ashe’s message and advice.
“It’s a very unique opportunity for these cadets. … They’re excited. They’re eager to get after it. They’re smart and talented,” he said. “I think this is probably one of the best groups of commissioned officers that Georgia Southern and Savannah have produced.”
Morea also commands the ROTC programs at Savannah State University and the Savannah College of Art and Design.
The cadets will graduate with their commissions May 9.