LEXINGTON, Va., Oct. 10-12, 2025—Every fall semester, VMI’s AFRTOC cadets gather for their Fall Field Training Exercise (FTX), a weekend designed not just to test their skills but to forge lasting bonds and build the kind of leadership that can only come from a shared challenge. This year’s FTX was no exception, blending rigorous training with moments of teamwork, reflection, and even a little fun.

Friday: Settling In

Excitement was high as cadets arrived on Friday afternoon. Once everyone was settled, the detachment gathered in Mallory Lecture Hall for a briefing to go over the plans for the next few days. The air buzzed with anticipation and nerves as C/Maj Boone explained what lay ahead. After, cadets split into groups for introductory rotations; some tackled the obstacle course, others tried their hand at jiu-jitsu. These early events set the stage for teamwork and mutual support, breaking the ice and building trust among flights.

Saturday: Pushing Limits

Saturday dawned early, with cadets forming up on the parade deck in physical training (PT) gear for an intense flight run. The morning chill was quickly forgotten as flights jogged together, carrying rifles and weighted items, encouraging one another throughout the effort.

After breakfast, the real work began. Cadets rotated through stations across campus, each offering a taste of military life: navigating unfamiliar terrain with land navigation, practicing small unit tactics, learning how to treat injuries under pressure with tactical combat casualty care(TCCC), and clearing rooms in simulated combat scenarios. At every turn, the professional officer training course (POC) cadre challenged Basic Cadet Leaders (BCL) and General Military Course(GMC) cadets to think critically, communicate clearly, and rely on their teammates.

Meals were more than just a chance to refuel; they were opportunities to swap stories, share advice, and laugh about the day’s mishaps. By late afternoon, cadets geared up for a spirited round of room-clearing exercises using Nerf guns, with upperclassmen playing the role of “the enemy.” The laughter and adrenaline underscored the importance of quick thinking and adaptability.

As evening fell, everyone regrouped for “Hot Seats,” a candid debrief where cadets reflected on what went well and where they could improve. It was a moment of honesty and growth, capped off by a well-earned dinner and some much-needed rest.

Sunday: Finishing Strong

Sunday offered a change of pace, with optional religious services and specialized workshops for those interested in pilot careers. The morning activities included boxing and aquatic training led by Cadet Webb. These invigorating yet challenging activities pushed cadets out of their comfort zones and taught new skills in a supportive environment.

After cleaning up and sharing one last meal, cadets headed to Kilbourne classrooms for advanced leadership projects. Here, they practiced room-clearing techniques and learned the value of clear communication and decisive action. The weekend wrapped up with final remarks on the Parade Deck, a chance to celebrate successes, acknowledge challenges, and look forward to future opportunities.

By the end of the FTX, tired smiles and high-fives told the story: this wasn’t just a weekend of drills and checklists. It was a time for cadets to push themselves, lean on each other, and discover what it means to lead. Whether mastering a new skill, overcoming a tough moment, or simply sharing a meal, every experience contributed to the growth of these future Air Force officers. Detachment 880’s Fall FTX remains a highlight of the year, a tradition that shapes not just better cadets, but better citizens of the future.

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