FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (Nov. 28, 2007) — Northern Arizona University’s Department of Military Science has been named the Best Large ROTC Program in the 14th U.S. Army Cadet Command Brigade, which encompasses schools from Arizona, California, Nevada and Utah.The award is presented annually by the 14th Brigade Commander for best large and small programs in the brigade.

Programs are evaluated by student grade point averages, physical fitness levels and military training scores, which are compiled from cadet performance at Leaders Development and Assessment Course, an intensive 33-day training program at Fort Lewis Washington.

NAU’s Army ROTC program, which has grown from fewer than 30 cadets seven years ago to the 80 cadets currently enrolled, was selected over programs at Arizona State University, University of Arizona, Brigham Young University, University of California at Los Angeles, University of Southern California and last year’s winner the University of Utah.  

Retired Lt. Col. Andrew Griffin, assistant professor of military science, said the NAU program’s success can be traced to its high-caliber faculty and support from the university.

“The Army ROTC cadre and staff are dedicated to providing the highest possible training, mentorship and coaching to our cadets,” Griffin said. “This professionalism has inculcated itself into a program with strong and positive values and a winning attitude.”

NAU President John Haeger will present the corps of cadets with the 14th Brigade Trophy — a redwood carved bear — at a public ceremony at 3 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 29, at the NAU ROTC building on South San Francisco Street, building 47A.

-NAU-