FORT KNOX, Ky. — Throughout Cadet Summer Training (CST), cadets are tasked with challenging events that build their confidence in themselves and in their equipment.

On June 26, 2026, Cadets assigned to 4th Regiment, Advanced Camp, had to face the rappel tower. The Rappel tower is a 64-foot tower in which Cadets are required to rappel down and belay their fellow Cadets.

For Cadet Emily Severance from Columbus State University, this isn’t her first time having to rappel; instead of fear, she found the event to be fun.

“I had a lot of fun. I’ve done it before, but it was really fun getting to watch a lot of the other cadets who were kind of nervous about it, conquer that fear and realize they can basically do what they put their minds to, so watching that in someone else is really cool.”

Growing up as a military child, she always knew from a young age that she was going to join the military.

Severance has been an active-duty military member for 12 years now. She has worked for the Air Force for seven years and as an Army supply Non-commissioned Officer and most recently she worked at a Ranger School where she was the Brigade Adjutant.

Missing the camaraderie, teamwork and sense of belonging is when she decided she wanted to come back.

Currently enrolled in the Army Green to Gold program, this program allows active-duty enlisted soldiers to earn a bachelor or master degree and receive a commission as an officer.

“It’s worth it if you’re doing it for the right reasons,” Severance said.

Being away from her family has been a challenging part of CST. They have helped Severance stay motivated.

“There are plenty of times where there’s been lack of sleep, food and 20-minute lines for a shower and then you remember your kids and why you’re doing it, and it’s just like okay, it’s only a couple more weeks and we can get through it.”