GCU Army ROTC

249 years ago, the U.S. Army was born out of the flames of revolution, founded to defend our young nation’s independence. From its humble beginnings in 1775 to its pivotal role in shaping history through conflicts and peace, the Army stands as a testament to bravery, adaptability, and unwavering dedication. Today, we celebrate not just a birthday, but a legacy forged by generations of soldiers who have answered the call to serve with honor and distinction. Here’s to 249 years of defending freedom and embodying the spirit of resilience. 🎂🇺🇸

🚨 BREAK BREAK BREAK, WE HAVE AIR ASSAULT GRADUATES🚨

From GCU ROTC to conquering new heights, Ethan Doest, Matthew Krauss, and Lou Odom have graduated from Air Assault! Joined by former cadets now 2LT Ethan Vail and 2LT Mitchell Sullivan, they’re ready to soar higher than ever!

Army Air Assault School is known as one of the toughest courses in the Army, focusing on combat assault operations involving helicopters. Over the intense 10-day program, they mastered helicopter insertion and extraction, sling load operations, rappelling, and rigorous physical training. This achievement not only showcases their commitment to excellence but also highlights their readiness to lead and excel in challenging environments.

Marching into Memorial Day with GCU ROTC, where we honor the brave with sweat, camaraderie, and the Murph Challenge! As we tackle the iconic workout, each rep echoes the valor of those who gave their all. Join us in this tribute, where every push-up, pull-up, and squat tells a story of resilience and gratitude. Together, we sweat, we remember, and we honor. 🇺🇸🪖

Are you getting after it??

Spring Commissioning! Congratulations to our newly commissioned 2nd Lieutenants! We are so proud of all our commissionees and we cannot wait to see where their careers take them! Lopes Up! 🪖

What a great weekend!! April 4th – April 7th GCU, U of A, and ASU had their Joint Field Training Exercise (JFTX) at Fort Huachuca. Cadets got the opportunity to get more hands-on training in the field. During the first two days MS1’s and MS2’s got the chance to sharpen up their skills in Land Navigations exercises by using their compasses and reading their maps to help get through the terrains.

The MS1’s and MS2’s learned about Weapon Squad Leader’s responsibilities of taking accountability of weapons, their team leaders, and the importance of the M240 Machine Gun’s. Their coordination and communication were emphasized during exercises in a combat situation by practicing gun drills.

As for our MS3’s they ran Situational Tactical Exercises Lanes. Getting them prepared for the unknown dynamic and challenges that they could come across during Cadet Summer Training. Their leadership was tested through multiple combat scenarios, stimulating their decision making and team-work skills.

JFTX brought out great practical skills and valuable learning experiences that will help prepare our cadets to become future leaders in the military.

Hear the Thunder, Fear the Lopes!

gcuairforce

Women throughout history have been called to service, selflessly they answered the call. Today we honor the women of the GCU ROTC program and their willingness to continue to serve this nation.

Hear the Thunder, Fear the Lopes

Cadet Meredith Estrada had the honor at Goodyear Ballpark, delivering a powerful rendition of the national anthem during the Brewers vs. Reds spring training game on March 6th, 2024.

Hear the Thunder, Fear the Lopes

GCU Army ROTC takes pride in annually contributing to the Waste Management Open. Finding honor and fulfillment in volunteering, it’s a cherished opportunity to support a renowned event and showcase dedication to a sustainable and impactful event.

Hear the Thunder, Fear the Lopes

⭐️CADET SPOTLIGHT⭐️

Here we have Cadet Alexa Bradley, from Nampa, Idaho. She’s an MS4 branching Adjutant General. We appreciate her and her dedication in this program. Bradley is a serene girl with a tranquil demeanor, consistently uplifts others with her gentle words, turning silence into a comforting symphony.

She is “Very thankful for all the blessings and opportunities that the Lord has given me. I am also so grateful to have an amazing family and their support in all my pursuits.”

Hear the Thunder, Fear the Lopes

Today the GCU Army ROTC program participated in the Alhambra High School Nursing students' mass casualty training event. Not only did they assist them by playing the crucial role as casualties, but also got the opportunity to share their knowledge and experience with the aspiring students! Let's go Lopes!

⭐️SENIOR CADET SPOTLIGHT⭐️

This week we have Green to Gold Cadet Nicolas Astorga Jr. He is branching Medical Services. He leads with high energy and motivation to always guide other cadets to perform at their best. He does an outstanding job keeping a peaceful environment during training and shows his commitment by being an example to those in the program.

Cadet Astorga gives words of appreciation to his wife for her continued support.
“Thanks to my beautiful wife for your kind words of encouragement, your willingness to pick up the slack at home, and your faith in me even when I doubted myself you have been more valuable than you could ever know.”

Hear the Thunder, Fear the Lopes

What a great way to start off this week! GCU Army ROTC got the chance to welcome our new cadets to the program lead by Battalion Commander (BC) Doest, Command Sergeant Major (CSM) Villatoro, and Executive Officer (XO) White. Welcome to the program cadets, GCU Army ROTC is pleased to welcome you to the program!

Hear the Thunder, Fear the Lopes

The Army Nurse Corp just gained a brilliant 2nd Lieutenant. We are filled with pride for our newest commissioned officer from Grand Canyon University.

2nd Lieutenant Emma Fisher

Congratulations, we know you will make us proud!

Hear the Thunder, Fear the Lopes

Congratulations to GCU Army ROTC cadets Wilson Van Dis and Carlos Vizcarra who contracted today. Cadet Van Dis received a 2 year ROTC scholarship and Cadet Vizcarra is a member of the Army National Guard. We are thrilled to have these exceptional young men in the program.

“It is our obligation to our dead—it is our sacred obligation to their children and our children—that we must never forget what we have learned.”
We have not forgotten, nor will we. -Franklin Roosevelt

Cadets from the GCU Army ROTC program are lending a hand to the "Feed our starving children" organization by packing meals for those in need. Come do your part and join us on Thursday as we continue to help and show support of this worthy cause!

Spartan Race heard the Thunder from the Lopes today. What a great turn out of cadets volunteering and being apart of the 5k showing their dedication and motivation. Getting an extraordinary experience out of it

Hear the Thunder, Fear the Lopes

Today GCU Army ROTC would like to extend their thanks and gratitude to those who have served, and those that are still serving. As part of our veterans day tradition the program marched along side so many other great service members young and old in honor of their sacrifice.

To the soldiers of the past and the soldiers of the future. Thank you for all you have done and will continue to do.

Today is the day!! Please consider donating to the ROTC programs at GCU and support our efforts to establish a scholarship and updating equipment for these deserving young men and women. See link in bio! Hear the Thunder! Fear the Lopes!!

Only 2 days left for you to give to the future of the military. Your donation could fund a scholarship for a deserving cadet or essential training equipment. Donate today.
Link in BIO!!

Ranger challenge 2023 complete! Everyone came out and gave it their all earning the fastest overall time! Hear the Thunder!

GCU ROTC Ranger Challenge Team leaving nothing on the table. Let's keep showing them what we're made of, Go Lopes!