Syracuse University-Air Force ROTC Det 535

Thanks to generous support from , senior Det 535 cadets participated in a staff ride to the National Command Region (NCR) in late March. Cadets participated in a preflight briefing with a UH-1 crew, observed an exercise alert activation involving the entire UH-1 squadron, and executed a subsequent training sortie around the heavily restricted Washington, D.C. airspace. Cadets also visited the Pentagon, where they gained firsthand insight into the highest echelons of military decision-making. Their visit included an engagement with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen Dan Caine, who enthusiastically recalled his time in Syracuse as an F-16 pilot at Hancock Air National Guard Base. The experience was a highlight of the seniors’ time in AFROTC and underscores the incredible access and opportunities afforded to Det 535 cadets.

Last fall, our detachment was fortunate to receive a Meta Quest 3 headset and Microsoft Flight Simulator from retired Col. Litzenberger.

Not only has this opened new doors for cadets interested in aviation by providing immersive, hands on training experiences, but it has also strengthened morale and engagement through interactive simulation games.

Thank you, Colonel Litzenberger, for helping our detachment continue to stand out and push the boundaries of leadership, teamwork, and developing future officers!

Leadership Lab 10 kicked off bright and early as Cadets prepared for our annual Chancellor’s Review. Assistant trainers led instruction on Reveille and Retreat, along with customary flag‑folding procedures. Cadets also practiced transit around the upper concourse of the Dome, making use of Syracuse’s unique infrastructure and reminding us why we’re proud to be Orange! We wrapped up lab by meeting with our mentorship families, continuing to strengthen the family culture that defines Detachment 535.

Congratulations to our Cadets of the Week: C/Waxler and C/Ballard—your hard work and dedication do not go unnoticed!

Det 535 cadets took fitness to a new level this March...
 
On Saturday 21 March, C/Whiteman, C/Crisp, C/Maloney, and C/Nido knocked out the Norwegian Foot March in Rochester, NY- a 25lb ruck for 18.6 miles 💪
On Sunday 22 March, C/Hrdy and C/Gratch competed in the Syracuse City Half Marathon 👟
 
Good stuff all around- we are so proud of everyone who got after it and represented the Detachment well!
 

This weekend, our very own C/ Waxler led a modified Stop the Bleed / TCCC course for cadets interested in learning practical, lifesaving skills applicable both to their future military careers and everyday life.

Following an informational presentation, cadets participated in interactive, real-world scenarios and practiced methods of care, ultimately earning certificates through the American College of Surgeons’ Stop the Bleed curriculum.

We are incredibly grateful for cadets like C/ Waxler who bring their real-world expertise back to the detachment and continue to strengthen our community

Highlighting your 2026 Group Staff!

Happy Chancellors Review Eve Eve!

During LLAB 7, BC cadets sharpened leadership fundamentals through a GLP lesson, while BCL cadets applied their skills during a land navigation exercise. Cadets then participated in a squadron marching competition, Tarmac Tango. Our Block 2 GLP tested teamwork and decision-making, followed by mentorship focused on growth and development.
 
Additionally, we’d like to highlight C/Esteban who’s hard work and dedication has paid off! C/Esteban’s Type 2 High School Scholarship Program (HSSP) was upgraded to a Type 1 HSSP giving her a full ride scholarship! Congratulations to C/Esteban!
 
HSSP FutureOfficers

Otto spent the week with our Cadet of the week, C/ Carlson!

“Otto and I performed an engine running offload of a KC-130 and downloaded MQ-9 maintenance equipment from a C-17 Globemaster after its use in an exercise.”