Field Training Exercise (FTX)

One weekend a semester all cadets participate in a Field Training Exercise (FTX) to train at La Copa Leadership and Development Ranch in Falfurrias, Texas.  The FTX is ROTC's most demanding training tool.  The student is completely immersed in an Army-style training environment: completing a day and night land navigation course, field Leadership Reaction Course, rappelling from a 60 foot rappel tower, Basic Rifle Marksmanship with an M-4 carbine, a team obstacle course, and Squad Situational Training Exercises (STX).  FTX's are meant to simulate the conditions that MSIII's will face at the Leader Development Advanced Course at Ft. Knox, Kentucky and offer leadership and adventure opportunities to cadets of all levels.

Special Teams

Cannon Team 

The tradition of “Old Smokey” is once again part of our Battalion history. The cannon has brought a lot tradition and history to our program dating back to the 80’s. “Old Smokey: is not only part of our program, but it is part of the college. This cannon is fired at every home football game and at certain special events. There are five cadets that are nominated to be on the cannon detail each semester. So if you think you got what it takes to be part of this tradition try out for the cannon detail.

Ranger Team

Considered the varsity sport of ROTC, Ranger team is not for the weak of heart.  Each year the select few chosen for Ranger Team compete in the Task Force Ranger Challenge against teams from all over the state of Texas.  Winners then go on to compete in San Antonio against teams from Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Utah, Colorado, and Wyoming.  The final competition is held at the United States Military Academy at West Point.  This team tests your mental conditioning, physical endurance, and teamwork.  Consisting of physically grueling challenges over the course of several days, night land navigation, grenade assault course, physical fitness test, first aid, weapons qualification, water obstacles, obstacle course, ruck march, and much more, the competition will push you to your limits.  If you want to challenge yourself and distinguish yourself amongst your peers, then the Ranger Team might just be for you.  

Color Guard

The ROTC Color Guard is a staple at Texas A&M University- Kingsville.  The Color Guard performs the sacred duty of posting and guarding the national colors during football games, commencement ceremonies, special school functions, and at the main campus flagpole.  They also are asked to participate in local air shows, concerts, ceremonies, and events.  Demonstrating immaculate appearance in uniform, exceptional drill and ceremony skills, and flawless execution of their duties, the Color Guard is a perfect opportunity to demonstrate your commitment to excellence.  

Military Ball

The Military Ball is a tradition which has been a part of the Battalion since it was established in 1975. The ball is a formal sit-in dinner, followed by awards, a guest speaker, and ending with dancing and music. The attendees consist of cadets along with their dates, university faculty, and a VIP guest speaker. This event is mainly focused on recognizing cadets for all the hard work they have put in throughout the academic year and to recognize various achievements.  

Combat Water Survival Training (CWST)

Cadets are tested once a semester on their ability to employ combat water survival skills in a swimming pool. Each event consists of rigorous exercises which they must complete in order to pass CWST. Before this, however, cadets are tested on their ability to swim by performing a ten-minute continuous swim followed by a five-minute session of treading water. Once they complete the swim test they move on to the first station of the 25-meter equipment swim. This swim must be completed with their LBE (Load Bearing Equipment) and an M16. The second station is the equipment drop. The cadet is pushed into the water and must drop all equipment while submerged underwater. The third and final station is the 3-meter drop. Each cadet will defeat the fear of stepping off a 3-meter high diving board while blind folded and M16 in hand. To pass, the cadet must swim to the edge of the pool with the weapon.