MAXWELL AFB, Al., May-Aug 2025—Cadets from AFROTC, Detachment 880 served as Cadet Cadre at the Air Force ROTC’s Field Training Event for Summer 2025.

AFROTC Field Training at Maxwell AFB, AL, is a mandatory, boot-camp-style summer program for Air Force ROTC cadets, typically held between their sophomore and junior years, focusing on leadership evaluation through intense physical and mental challenges, military discipline, teamwork, Air Force career indoctrination, and deployment skills to prepare them for becoming Air Force officers. It's a competitive, high-pressure experience where cadets are assessed on their ability to lead and follow. Cadets who successfully complete field training then go on to enter the next milestone of their journey as a member of the Professional Officer Course of the AFROTC program.

Two Detachment 880 cadets were hand-picked as cadre for Field Training 2025 (FT25). As cadre, they guided BCL cadets through tough field exercises, offering mentorship and setting high standards. Their leadership made a lasting impact on those they mentored throughout the summer.

In vivid detail, Cadet Jada Torrez recounts her experience: “I started Field Training 2025 as a Medical Cadet for approximately the first 2 weeks. I spent around 41 and a half hours over the course of 8 days at the Emergency Room, where I would escort cadets that needed to be seen, and help them with the process of being able to file their information with the Field Training Medical Team. I would also help inform other cadets about the correct processes when it came to needing medical help. I would also attend some of the Field events to include the UXO and Small Unit Tactics at Sim City, and the 3 Mile Run. Additionally, I would also assist when Trainees have symptoms of heat-related injuries by going through the steps to help cool down that cadet. Later, I was switched to be a Cadet MOD 2 Wing Advisor, where I assist/mentor the Expeditionary Cadet Wing Leadership during the second half of Field Training. I advised approximately 860 cadets, with 28 of those cadets being in leadership through Max 4 and 5. In addition to advising cadets, she has also coordinated meeting times for the Chaplain and Form 17 counseling. Lastly, I helped to enforce the standard at the Dining Facility during her free time. Overall, it was a rewarding experience and a great way to experiment with leadership.”

Cadet Elisha K. Williams ‘27 
Air Force ROTC Detachment 880 
Photos courtesy of VMI Air Force ROTC