Last Updated: June 13th, 2024By Tags: ,


FORT KNOX, Ky. – U.S. Army Cadets from 10th Regiment, Advanced Camp, participated in the rappel tower during Cadet Summer Training on Fort Knox, Ky., July 21, 2023.

Cadet Andrew Dodson, The University of Alabama, 10th Regiment, Advanced Camp, rappels down the freefall side during the rappel tower at Fort Knox, Ky., July 21, 2023. The rappel tower helps Cadets build confidence in their equipment and themselves. | Photo by Danielle Smith, Ohio University, CST Public Affairs Office

The 64-feet rappel tower is designed to help Cadets build confidence in their equipment and themselves. Mastering rappelling is essential for military personnel and the tower offers a controlled setting for Cadets to learn and practice this skill.

Cadet Andrew Dodson from The University of Alabama shares his experience at the rappel tower.

“I was excited because it is fun, it’s a cool experience and then,” Dodson stated. “It is my second time doing the rappel tower, but I feel more confident doing it this time.”

Confidence is instilled by things such as successful runs and feedback from Cadre. The Cadre assisted with all aspects of the tower by providing safety instructions, as well as checking their ropes and supervising all rappelers. 

“The Cadre makes sure you are confident in your gear and your ability to go through it,” Dodson said. “Even if you forget or stumble on what you are about to do next, they’ll help you through it.” 

While instruction is critical, the result of the rappel comes down to the rappeler and the belayer. While Dodson had problem free rappel runs, Cadet Micah Callahan from Portland State University shares a different experience. 

Cadet Marcus Givens, University of Arkansas, 10th Regiment, Advanced Camp, rappels down during the rappel tower at Fort Knox, Ky., July 21, 2023. The rappel tower helps Cadets build confidence in their equipment and themselves. | Photo by Danielle Smith, Ohio University, CST Public Affairs Office

“During the open part my belay did not break my fall when I was falling,” Callahan said. “I definitely have blisters on my hand from that fall, it was scary.”

Callahan did not let her fall discourage her, she remembered what the Cadre discussed and her willpower to conquer this obstacle helped her keep pushing through and persevering.

“I feel as though I am someone who really likes to push myself to the limits and that is why I’ve been doing well in the military so far,” Callahan stated. “I keep trying, I never stop. Even though I may not like something, I will always do it.”

Cadets prove their strengths through the challenges they face each and every day here at CST. They overcome difficulties that add amazing skills and qualities to themselves as they are on their path to becoming future Army officers.

About the Author: Danielle Smith
Danielle Smith
Danielle Smith, an upcoming senior at Ohio University majoring in journalism with a minor in marketing, is currently serving as a CST Public Affairs Office intern at Fort Knox, KY this summer. As she delves into her role, Danielle aims to not only refine her multimedia skills but also elevate them by narrating the compelling stories of Cadets in a deeply meaningful manner. With her graduation slated for May 2024, she envisions a future in the media industry, where she can continue to make an impact. Beyond her professional endeavors, Danielle finds immense pleasure in indulging her passion for food exploration as a devoted foodie. Furthermore, her insatiable wanderlust fuels her love for travel, making her an enthusiastic travel addict.