FORT KNOX, Ky. — A cloudy, dark and wet sky hung over Canby Range, June 6, 2025, until the sun broke through and shone over the Cadets during Group and Zero, a weapon accuracy drill.
The Cadets arrived to the range with their weapons and received instructions before getting ammunition. With great anticipation, they were ready to zero.
They planted themselves flat on the ground before opening fire on their target.
At the range, two Cadets of Alpha Company, 1st Regiment, Advanced Camp, 3rd platoon expressed their desire to lead and use their skills to help others.
Upon completing the exercise, the Cadets lined up with their target sheets in hand, ready to show the officer grading their performance. Cadet Sebastian Rodriguez, University of Houston, said he’s confident in how he did, and has great Cadre teaching him to do what’s best.
“(They’re) giving us all pretty good technique, and it’s pretty easy to understand,” Rodriguez said.
Rodriguez joined ROTC because of his auntie, saying he wanted to be like her, a colonel. He said his auntie inspires him, seeing how successful she is, and especially how she gives back to her country. In his future, he’s in it for the long haul, and he wants to lead troops from the front.
“I want to do (my time),” Rodriguez said. “I want to branch infantry and be able to take care of all my Soldiers.”
His platoonmate, Cadet Morgan McNary, West Virginia University, wants to do the same thing. By joining the ROTC, McNary is intent on building her leadership experience for her profession.
She is currently attending the WVU School of Nursing and wants to use what she’s learned from the ROTC for the field of nursing. McNary wants to help and save others, all while serving her country.
“I want to become an army nurse,” McNary said. “Even if I’m not doing tactical stuff all the time, I like taking care of other people, and I love my patients.”
Virtue is an important part of leaders. And, those with virtuous beginnings make important leaders. There are good things to come from these Cadets.
About the Author: River Murt
