ROTC cadets tackle wall

By John Slottje
Guest Writer

Seven members of the Air Force ROTC program tackled the UNCP climbing wall as a fun way to learn teamwork and enhance esprit de corps on Oct. 19.

The students climbed the five-story wooden structure with six different areas ranging in difficulty to promote esprit de corps among the cadets.

The cadets used the wall as a social activity that is physically challenging.

For most ROTC activities there is a lot of military protocol and the cadets do not get the chance to be in a relaxed atmosphere around each other. This lets the younger cadets feel comfortable in the presence of the higher-ranking cadets and let’s them form a tighter group.

Cadets approached the wall with different degrees of hesitation, but by the end they all seemed elated.

Some cadets got out to the wall and looked up and felt that there was no way they would get to the top of it. Others eagerly strapped on their harnesses before any instructions were given.

It was quite an accomplishment for those who were hesitant about climbing a 50-foot vertical wall as they pulled themselves up to the last part and rang the bell dangling from the top. For those who waited to get their chance at climbing, they cheered on their fellow cadets.

“It was fun and exciting,” chemistry major Henry Howard said. “It was a new experience. I was working so hard to get to the top. People were chant-ing and motivating me to get to the top. The encouragement was overwhelming.”

Howard said he appreciated sharing the experience with his fellow cadets. It also gave him more confidence and helped him overcome his fear of heights.

The Air Force ROTC is setting up a date to tackle the wall again.