The University of North Georgia (UNG) Corps of Cadets recently made history as 27 of its cadets successfully graduated from the Army’s Air Assault School at the Warrior Training Center at Fort Moore, Georgia. This marks the largest cadet class from any college ROTC program to complete Air Assault School at one time.
The rigorous Air Assault School is known for its physically demanding training, which includes helicopter operations, sling load rigging, and rappelling. Graduates earn the coveted Air Assault Badge, signifying their ability to conduct air assault operations efficiently and effectively.
“We are incredibly proud of these cadets for their dedication and perseverance throughout this challenging course,” said a UNG representative. “Their success reflects the strength of our Corps of Cadets and the quality of training they receive.”
The Air Assault School graduates from UNG include:
Benjamin P. Anderson, Matthew W. Andrade, Jaelyn L. Baker, Michael T. Barnes, Wesley T. Boling, Evan M. Case, James T. Champ, Ian J. Champion, Matthew J. Ctibor, Sawyer C. Davis, Jason M. DiSimone, Maxwell L. Farmer, Hayden E. Frye, Conard H. Henderson, Zane E. Hiott, Dayton K. Hurst, William C. Martin, Jaren W. McMullin, Landon G. Morello, Ali R. Nabulsi, Emerson W. Norton, William J. Penney, Noah T. Riley, Eric D. Roe, Tyson A. Rumley, Erik C. Siegele, and Sylas Sisson.
The achievement highlights UNG’s commitment to developing skilled and resilient military leaders. With this record-breaking accomplishment, the UNG Corps of Cadets continues to solidify its reputation as one of the top ROTC programs in the nation.
Nabulsi secured first place in both the 12-mile and six-mile ruck marches, while Hurst claimed the top spot in the four-mile run. Boling and Rumley achieved UNG’s highest test averages at Air Assault School.
“We are incredibly proud of this group of cadets for making history at Air Assault School. They exemplify the standards of excellence in our Corps of Cadets,” said Col. Ed Bankston, professor of military science. “This training has equipped these cadets to lead both now and in the future.”
A class of 240 participants, consisting mostly of cadets along with some active-duty personnel, successfully graduated from the Dec. 6-17 training.
Baker, a senior from Conyers, Georgia, majoring in criminal justice, credited her experience in the specialty unit Mountain Order of Colombo at UNG for preparing her to excel at Air Assault School. She also helped classmates with tasks like tying Swiss seat knots for rappelling.
One of the most memorable experiences for Baker was rappelling from a helicopter. Ultimately, she appreciates the Cadet Leadership Academy’s dedication to providing training opportunities that prepare cadets for their futures.
“They’re working for us, trying to get us these opportunities before we get in the Army,” Baker said.
Nabulsi, who previously completed Combat Diver Qualification Training over the summer, was excited to undertake another specialized training.
“Attention to detail is the biggest thing at Air Assault School. When you’re working with aircraft, little things can turn into big things,” said Nabulsi, a junior from Athens, Georgia, majoring in management. “Being in the Corps of Cadets teaches attention to detail.”
Hurst, a sophomore from Thomasville, Georgia, majoring in management with a concentration in logistics and supply chain management, noted that Air Assault School participants included cadets, non-commissioned officers, and captains. He was particularly impressed by the camaraderie displayed throughout the training.
“No matter their rank, they’re just people too,” Hurst said. “Everybody leaned on each other, and it was cool to see.”
Nine of the UNG cadets who graduated from Air Assault School in December are members of UNG’s Army National Guard detachment.
“Beyond tactical applications, the lessons learned at Air Assault School equip National Guard soldiers with valuable skills for emergency response efforts and resupply missions during state emergencies,” said Capt. Trevor Holbrooks, commander of UNG’s Army National Guard detachment. “Sending UNG graduates into the force as junior officers with the Air Assault Badge aligns with the UNG tradition of producing resilient, effective, and successful leaders.”
