Cadets with 1st Regiment, Advanced Camp, complete their Rappel Tower Training on Fort Knox, Ky., June 12, 2024. Rappel training teaches Cadets to trust their equipment and overcome personal fears.

With the Rappel tower at Fort Knox standing at 64 feet, many Cadets are apprehensive of this training. 

“Just try to lose the fear when you get up there and take it one step at a time,” said 2nd Lt. Steven Kaptzan. 

Cadets with 1st Regiment, Advanced Camp, complete Rappel Tower training at Fort Knox, Ky., June 12, 2024. Rappel training teaches Cadets to trust their equipment and overcome personal fears. | Kendall Kelly, University of Georgia, CST Public Affairs Office

While some are fearful of the Rappel tower, Cadet Hunter Hobbs, 1st Regiment, Advanced Camp, from Truman State University, Mo., approached the training with confidence. Cadet He currently serves in the Missouri National Guard. 

“I enjoy rappelling, it’s exhilarating,” Cadet Hobbs said. “They do a good job out here to make sure everybody stays safe.”

Hobbs hopes to pursue active duty service upon graduation. Transitioning from the Guard allows him to lead by example and collaborate with others. He enjoys working with people, which led him to becoming an officer. 

“I want to make sure my people are taken care of,” Hobbs said. “A passionate leader is what I strive to be in all of the things I do.”

Cadet Taalib Auguste, 1st Regiment, Advanced Camp, from Louisiana State University joined ROTC to develop his leadership skills. He was previously enlisted in the U.S. Army for three years as an Intel Analyst. Originally from Louisiana, Cadet Auguste appreciates the opportunity to move closer to home for school while continuing his journey in the military. 

Auguste aims to grow both as a leader and an individual during his time at Cadet Summer Training.

“I think that a lot of my weaknesses that I originally had have been edged out,” Auguste said. “I became more confident as a leader and have started to use my leadership voice more.”

Many of his personal weaknesses stem from a fear of making mistakes. However, Cadet Summer Training has fostered a supportive environment for Cadet Auguste to learn from his peers. 

“You think that a lot of people are judging you,” said Auguste. “Everybody’s going to make mistakes and it’s just about learning from the next person.”