17 Jul 2026
EP. 35 FROM ROTC TO OFFICER (CLASS OF 26' SENIORS)
Join us as we talk with 2LT Bryson, King, Gallegos, and CDT King about their experiences on their historic trip to Normandy, France, and learn about their pathways into military leadership. This episode offers valuable insights into ROTC opportunities, military training, and personal growth. In this episode:
Cadets discuss their backgrounds and how they joined the military through various programs like National Guard, Green to Gold, and JROTC
Highlights of the Normandy staff ride, including visits to Omaha, Utah beaches, and the Battle of Normandy
Lessons learned from overseas training, Cold Weather Challenge, and participation in events like Baton Memorial Death March and Balloon Fiesta
Mentorship and leadership development within the ROTC battalion
Tips for balancing college, ROTC, and personal health while preparing for a future as an officer
Unique ROTC programs and competitions such as Ranger Challenge, Northern Warfare Challenge, and role of leadership labs
Reflections on cultural experiences, French cuisine, and visiting Paris and Versailles
UNM ROTC Program (https://rotc.unm.edu/)
Northern Warfare Challenge (https://www.armyupress.army.mil/)
Baton Memorial Death March (https://bataanproject.com/)
Balloon Fiesta (https://balloonfiesta.com/)
Palace of Versailles (https://en.chateauversailles.fr/)
Normandy Battlefield Tour (https://www.historynet.com/)
LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/search/results/people/?keywords=Cadet%20Bryson) | Twitter (https://twitter.com/bryson)
Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and overview of cadet backgrounds
01:17 - Cadets introduce themselves and share how they joined ROTC
02:13 - Cadets recount their paths into military service through guard and active duty
03:37 - Reasons for choosing UNM and ROTC programs, including financial aid options
04:51 - Cadets discuss special opportunities like Northern Warfare Challenge and Baton Death March
06:43 - Reflections on foundational experiences that motivated continued ROTC engagement
09:19 - Extracurricular activities like Color Guard, Balloon Fiesta, and staff rides
10:01 - Insights into Cold Weather Challenge and how to prepare for unique military training
12:24 - Student reflections on mentorship, leadership, and squadron support during college
13:47 - Cadets’ memorable experiences from the Normandy staff ride and battle insights
15:36 - How to stay motivated and push through demanding military events like rucking marathons
17:11 - Additional training opportunities, including recruiting and leadership competitions
19:00 - Lessons from working community events like Balloon Fiesta and international travel
20:12 - Mentorship's role in personal guidance and leadership cultivation
22:12 - Cadets share their mentors and the importance of guidance in military career development
23:16 - Balancing academics, fitness, and ROTC commitments in college life
25:38 - Strategies for managing time, priorities, and stress during college years
28:05 - Tips for engineering students to succeed academically and in ROTC
30:05 - The significance of camp experience for leadership and teamwork growth
31:14 - Planning staff rides: decision-making, planning, and historical insights
34:00 - In-depth look at Normandy staff ride logistics, terrain, and strategic understanding
36:38 - Reflection on deploying to Europe and cultural experiences in France
39:16 - Final thoughts on the trip, including landmarks visited, and French cuisine
52:53 - Cadets recount their favorite moments, from Eiffel Tower to Palace of Versailles
54:39 - Advice for future cadets: confidence, resourcefulness, and making the most of ROTC
55:38 - Support networks, resources, and encouragement for cadets' success
56:09 - Closing remarks and gratitude for recording and sharing these stories
Interested in Army ROTC? Check out our website at (https://armyrotc.unm.edu/)
Army ROTC |The University of New Mexico (https://armyrotc.unm.edu/)
YouTube: UNM Army ROTC- YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@UNMROTC/featured)
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All views shared by the guests are their own and do not reflect on the U.S. Army. This podcast is not associated with the Department of War.
