Events & Activities

In Army ROTC, it's not all classroom and field training. There are many opportunities for you to get to know your fellow cadets better and increase your skills in a variety of areas. Learn more about these events and activities below.

RANGER CHALLENGE

The Ranger Challenge is an opportunity for schools to "compete" with each other completing military tasks. In addition to a written examination where Cadets test their Army knowledge, there are physical fitness drills and field exercises. Battalions leave a Ranger Challenge with stronger bonds and sharper skills.

PERSHING RIFLES

The National Society of Pershing Rifles gives Army ROTC Cadets the opportunity to develop to the highest degree possible. Cadets can take part in precision trick rifle drill teams that provide them with the outstanding traits of leadership, military bearing and discipline.

PERSHING ANGELS

Founded on February 9, 1965 on the campus of Morgan State University, The National Society of Pershing Angels, Inc. is a military drill sorority that exists to promote drill, community service activities and sisterhood in extraordinary women at college campuses. Company G-8-5 at Howard University was founded on April 26, 1976 by nine young women committed to higher achievement in academics, drill, and leadership.

COMMISSIONING CEREMONY

One of the most significant events in a Cadets life is the Commissioning into the United States Army as a Second Lieutenant..  Depending on their academic alignment, the ceremony normally occurs in the Spring Semester usually May or in the Fall Semester in December.  Families and friends travel great distances to be a part of this event. 

ANNUAL ROTC DAY

Each Fall Semester the Department of Military Science organizes an ROTC Day.  This event focuses on the JROTC in the DC, VA and MD area.  Over 30 High Schools are invited each year to compete in a Drill Competition and Uniform inspection.  This year, Forestville Military Academy took the first place trophy home.  The event ended with magnificent performances by the United States Army and Air Force Drill Team.

HOWARD UNIVERSITY CONVOCATION AND CHARTER DAY

Each Fall and Spring Semester, Howard University holds a Convocation Day, celebrating the opening of a new year that the University has been an educational institution and a Charter Day celebrating the anniversary of the founding of Howard University.  The administration proudly displays Bison Battalion Color Guard  during these ceremonial events.