UTC Army ROTC

Today, we had the honor of celebrating these outstanding gentlemen as they commissioned into the United States Army as Second Lieutenants. Over the years, they have demonstrated unwavering dedication, resilience, leadership, and commitment to something greater than themselves.

Commissioning is more than just a ceremony, it represents the beginning of a commitment to lead with integrity, selfless service, and courage. We are proud to have watched these cadets grow into confident leaders who are prepared to take on the responsibility of leading Soldiers in the United States Army.
As they begin this next chapter of their Army careers, we know they will continue to inspire those around them and make a lasting impact wherever they go. Congratulations, Lieutenants, your ROTC family is incredibly proud of all you have accomplished, and we cannot wait to see what the future holds for each of you. 🇺🇸
utc mocsbattalion

Cadet Speights joined ROTC to better himself and build a strong foundation for his future. It gave him the structure, discipline, and opportunities to grow as both a leader and a person, while preparing him for a long-term career in the Army.

Graduating from Air Assault School this experience pushed him mentally and physically and showed him what he’s capable of under pressure.

“The friendships I’ve built through ROTC. The shared experiences, challenges, and time spent together created bonds that will last well beyond college and into our careers.”

“Keep an open mind, stay adaptable, and give your best effort in everything you do. The little things compound over time, and consistency is what sets you apart.”

Why ROTC:
Cadet Speights joined ROTC to better himself and build a strong foundation for his future. It gave him the structure, discipline, and opportunities to grow as both a leader and a person, while preparing him for a long-term career in the Army.

Biggest Accomplishment:
Graduating from Air Assault School this experience pushed him mentally and physically and showed him what he’s capable of under pressure.

Best Memory:
“The friendships I’ve built through ROTC. The shared experiences, challenges, and time spent together created bonds that will last well beyond college and into our careers.”

Lasting Legacy / Advice:
“Keep an open mind, stay adaptable, and give your best effort in everything you do. The little things compound over time, and consistency is what sets you apart.”

Song whos having fun by drain

Spring 2026 Change of Command Ceremony

This Change of Command for the Mocs Battalion marked a formal and time-honored transition of leadership. Rooted in Army tradition, the ceremony signifies the passing of responsibility from one commander to the next, honoring the dedication, accomplishments, and lasting impact of the outgoing leadership while welcoming the incoming command as they step forward to lead the Battalion and carry out its mission with pride and purpose.

We are proud to introduce our new Battalion leadership: Battalion Commander CDT Durby, Executive Officer CDT Herman, and Command Sergeant Major CDT Dobson.

Set against the backdrop of Chickamauga Battlefield, we were also surrounded by a living legacy. This historic ground stands as a powerful reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering service of those who came before us, grounding this moment in something far greater than ourselves.

Shoutout to Cadet John Dobson for receiving the Veterans of Foreign Wars Citation and Medal for outstanding achievement and exceptional leadership ability!!

GO MOCS! 💙💛🇺🇸
7thbridagerotc

The Expert Mocs Buckle Challenge was a well-needed reminder of what it really means to be a soldier. More than just a physical event, it pushed every participant through a true mental and physical test…demanding grit, strength, and the will to keep going when limits were already met. But in the middle of the challenge, something bigger took shape. Camaraderie grew stronger and individuals leaned on one another to get through it. Every soldier was pushed to their limits, and in doing so, proved just how much further they could go. Congratulations to all of those who gave it their all during the EMB, GO MOCS!

Shoutout to the following cadets who received the Expert Mocs Buckle
Alpha Class
CDT Bryan
CDT Dobson
CDT Durby
CDT Sinclair
CDT Schomburg
CDT Goodrich
CDT Richardson
CDT Ralston

Last week, the Mocs Battalion conducted a staff ride to Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. Guided by park historian Jim Ogden, alongside our MS4s and cadre, we walked the ground and studied not just what happened in 1863, but why it still matters to those who serve today.
One line by Ogden was: “For those of you who will serve in the armed forces, you carry forward the legacy of those who hallowed this ground in 1863.” It is a reminder that leadership is never separate from history, it grows out of it.

We didn’t just study history; we translated them. As Lt. Col. Wellock put it, “sustainment is an operation.” Not an afterthought, not a background function. At Chickamauga, where lines held or broke based on coordination, communication, and endurance, that idea became real.
The staff ride was more than a lesson in the past. It was a chance to sharpen how we think, how we lead, and how we carry forward the responsibility that comes with wearing the uniform.

Go Mocs.

Cadet Jamie Norris found his path to ROTC after originally planning to enlist in Signal. After being encouraged by a senior to give ROTC a shot, he quickly realized the opportunity it gave him to grow as a leader and be part of something bigger.

One of his biggest accomplishments was helping found one of the Southeast’s hurling clubs, where he served as a founding member and president. Since its creation, the team has competed at nationals three years in a row. Along the way, he also earned his number one branch choice and made the Dean’s List.

His favorite memories come from the time spent with his MS4 class, late nights, shared experiences, and building strong connections that will last well beyond ROTC. 

His advice is simple: make mistakes and learn from every one of them. By the time you commission, those lessons will matter. Take advantage of every opportunity, push yourself, but know your limits to avoid burning out.

This past weekend, the Mocs Battalion took part in the Mountain Man Memorial March, marching in tribute to all who have fallen and in honor of SFC John T. Stone, SFC Chris L. Robertson, and SGT David A. Stephens.

Their sacrifice will not be forgotten, and it was a privilege to honor their legacy through this event.

The battalion also put together a strong showing on the course: 1st Place Women’s 10K — Cadet Vaughn
2nd Place Women’s 5K — Cadet Hynes
2nd Place Men’s 5K — Cadet Jean Pierre
2nd Place 10K — Cadet Greene

Proud of the effort, discipline, and respect shown by our cadets all weekend. Go Mocs.

Senior Spotlight – Cadet Allen

Cadet Allen came into ROTC looking for direction for the rest of his life. What started as a way to meet people and get in shape quickly turned into a defining decision.

Along the way, he’s made the Dean’s List every semester, served as a Resident Assistant, led as President of the Hurling Club, and earned state-level recognition for his academic work, all while helping build organizations from the ground up.

His best memory? Traveling to Denver for Hurling Nationals alongside his ROTC peers.

Cadet Allen leaves behind a message grounded in experience: ROTC is more than training; it’s a gateway. Lean on the people around you, build your network, and develop as a leader. The camaraderie you build here lasts.

Recently wrapped up our 2026 Military Dining Out. Solid night with good people, recognizing the work that’s been put in this year and taking a break from the usual grind. Honored to host 7th Brigade leadership, COL Watson, and CSM Hart. Here’s to another great year.