Meet the Army Community Day returns to AC on April 12
Posted Friday, March 22, 2024
Author: Mickey Alvarado
A Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) and Michigan National Guard “Meet the Army Community Day” is scheduled for Friday, April 12, at Adrian College. The annual event is free and open to the public.
The Meet the Army Community Day coordinator, Tina Claiborne, Adrian College Exercise Science and Athletic Training Director/Professor said she received positive feedback from those attending and participating in the inaugural event last year.
“This is a great collaboration between Ohio and Michigan, Adrian College’s ROTC program with the University of Toledo, the Michigan Army National Guard, the Reserves, those serving as well as those training to serve,” Claiborne said. “It’s really exciting that we’re able to bring everyone together again for this wonderful event!”
A mine-resistant ambush protected vehicle, an eight-wheeled armored fighting vehicle and other pieces of military equipment will be on display outside of Adrian College’s Merillat Sport and Fitness Center from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Depending on availability, a Black Hawk or Chinook helicopter may also fly in for the event.
Bruiser the bulldog, Adrian College’s live mascot, will also make a guest appearance.
In addition to the display of combat vehicles, visitors will be able to try on army gear including bulletproof vests and helmets and shoot in an indoor virtual smokeless range. Guests can also tour the combat and transport vehicles and have interactive experiences.
The public will be able to take pictures with soldiers, talk with ROTC and National Guard members about scholarships, and watch an Army Combat Fitness Test competition in Docking Stadium. This year, Adrian, Madison, and Tecumseh High Schools have students who will compete in the fitness test. During the day there will also be a Tactical Athlete Competition between Adrian College students, faculty, and staff.
The Meet the Army Community Day was created to give students a chance to find out about the ROTC scholarship opportunities specific to Adrian College, as well as opportunities through the Michigan National Guard.
Adrian College has long partnered with the ROTC. Last year the college added a new special academic program, a minor in Military Science and Leadership, that give students a unique opportunity to check out the ROTC to see if it would be a good fit for them, without having to commit to join the Army.
Sponsors include, American Legion Posts - William C. Stark Post 97 and G. Chandler Bond Post 275, Walmart, Red Paint Printing and Old National Bank.
For more information about the event, contact Claiborne at tclaiborne@adrian.edu.
