Reasons to Love Det 590!
Small Cadet Wing
Det 590 is considered a “Small Detachment” by AFROTC which means you really get to know your fellow cadets and get direct mentorship from Cadre. The training is unparalleled. It’s also a great way to get more involved, quicker. For example, freshmen routinely hold formal positions in the Cadet Wing meaning you will be empowered to impact your unit from the start. Furthermore, you will having many more opportunities in Color Guard, Arnold Air Society, and for trips across the US! You can’t find those opportunities anywhere else.
Convenient Location
Det 590 is located in the Naval Armory, right in the middle of campus. It is easy for students to get to and from the detachment and class. You will find cadets in the lounge all throughout the day, working on homework, or just hanging out! It is a great place to get to know your wingmen.
Morning Physical Training (PT)
Det 590 values your time as a college student. Our PT sessions are held on Tuesday and Thursday mornings (0600-0700) to ensure no class conflicts. Many cadets enjoy the early wakeup and energetic start to their days. PT sessions are meticulously planned by a designated cadet and consist of engaging exercises, morale-boosting activities, and healthy competition. Workouts are individualized enough to challenge cadets at any fitness level.
New Cadet Orientation Program
Before each fall semester, we hold our annual New Cadet Orientation Program (NCOP) to acclimate new cadets to Air Force ROTC. This voluntary program is designed so students can focus on the basics of Air Force ROTC while building a sense of teamwork and camaraderie with their classmates – all before they have to worry about keeping up with college studies. Graduates of NCOP frequently say that it cemented in their minds that Air Force ROTC was right for them.
Unique Opportunities
There is more to AFROTC than AERO classes, LLAB, and PT. Cadets have incredible opportunities and exclusive access to a multitude of activities for professional development, volunteering, or simply for fun.
Base Visits
At least once a semester, cadets go on a base visit to enhance their understanding of the operational Air Force. Base visits are interactive experiences and showcase many different jobs in the Air Force. Not only will you see all the amenities that are available to Airmen and their families, but you’ll also get a real-world glimpse into your future as you shadow active duty officers. Most recently, cadets visited Joint Base Charleston and flew there on a C-17 Globemaster.
Color Guard
Cadets who choose to participate in Color Guard receive specialized drill training and have the privilege of presenting the colors at numerous sporting events and military functions throughout the academic year. Most notably, cadets in Color Guard may have the honor of presenting the colors at the annual UNC vs. Duke basketball games!
Arnold Air Society
AAS is a professional, honorary service organization advocating the support of air and space power. The primary objectives of the Arnold Air Society are to: (1) create a more efficient relationship among Air Force officer candidates; (2) aid in the development of effective officers; and (3) further the purpose, traditions, and concepts of the Air Force. AAS service projects are the main vehicle through which the objectives are accomplished. They provide leadership and management challenges and give campus and community recognition for Air Force ROTC and the USAF.
You Can Fly
Over the years, many of our cadets have received the You Can Fly scholarship from AFROTC. The program’s aim is to increase diversity among rated forces through early exposure, education, and flight experience. This initiative provides monetary funds to be applied directly to flight training. Cadets are typically able to complete 15-20 hours of flight training free of cost.
Dining In, Dining Out
Throughout the year, our unit hosts several social functions that uphold the longstanding traditions of the USAF. Cadets have the opportunity to dress up in either civilian or military dress attire and interact in a different type of environment. These events include Combat Dining In and Dining Out.
