DET 450: MSU Air Force ROTC

Why Montana State Air Force ROTC?

Cadets at Montana State University make up a wide cross section of the campus community. Cadets represent a variety of ethnic groups, religious groups, academic majors, student organizations and clubs, and athletic and social interests. There are cadets from military and non-military backgrounds, urban and rural areas, and from as close as Bozeman to as far away as Hawaii. The diversity of cadets enhances the AFROTC program at Montana State University. No matter what background the cadets may have, they all work toward one common goal: to become officers in the United States Air Force.

Detachment

450 has a long and distinguished history at MSU. With humble roots as a course known as College Training (Aircrew) in 1943, Det 450 had its formal beginnings in 1948 with the arrival of Lt Col John Carr (our first Professor of Air Science). By 1952 the needs of the still-young Air Force led to the creation of AFROTC Detachments, and on 1 August 1952 AFROTC Detachment 450 was officially activated. Det 450 has been providing the Air Force with quality officers and pilots from the dawn of the jet age and the first F-86 fighters through today's high-tech F-22 fighters and advanced space platforms.

Over the years the AFROTC program has grown from a World War II effort to boost specialist training into a major source of Air Force officers and pilots. Det 450 has grown with the Air Force, weathering the ups and downs of various political and social changes that have marked the American landscape since 1953. Through it all, the excellence of our cadets has remained constant. Six future generals have graduated from MSU over the years, and more recently our selection rate for Air Force pilot training (a very competitive and selective process) has been well above average. Det 450's strong history and heritage helps give these cadets and future officers the tools they need to succeed in today's Air Force and in life.

A cadet in the AFROTC program at MSU becomes a part of a "family" of students who have similar interests and goals. Cadets actively participate in AFROTC duties and have the opportunity to enjoy many extracurricular activities. Below is a list of important cadet activities, organizations, and projects:

Arnold Air Society

Arnold Air Society, or AAS, is an MSU student organization affiliated with Air Force ROTC. The Arnold Air Society organization at MSU participates in a variety of community service activities. Past AAS community service projects include a bowl-a-thon for the Big Brother/Big Sister program, working with Habitat for Humanity in the Gallatin Valley, and Adopt-A-Highway.

Color Guard

MSU AFROTC color guard focuses on excellence in drill and bearing. The color guard is responsible for presenting the flag at all necessary AFROTC functions. DET 450 color guard also presents the flags at various MSU functions such as volleyball and basketball games. In addition, color guard competes in national drill competitions.

Rifle Team

MSU AFROTC has a rifle team that focuses on drill with the use of rifles. Team members dedicate much time and effort practicing difficult moves spinning a rifle. The MSU rifle team performs at various school and corps functions, and competes in national competitions as well.

MSU Graduation Ceremonies

Cadets from Air Force ROTC volunteer as ushers at MSU commencement events. These cadets play a critical role in executing each graduation ceremony at MSU.

Freshman Orientation Program

All incoming Montana State University freshman participate in the Freshman Orientation Program during the summer prior to their freshman year. AFROTC provides support for this program by briefing both parents and incoming students. AFROTC students use this opportunity to practice their briefing skills, answer questions on ROTC, and recruit new cadets into their corps.

Air Force ROTC Dining-Out

AFROTC conducts a formal military dining function each Spring semester.  This social dinner exposes cadets to a great Air Force tradition. Traditionally, annual awards are presented at Det 450's Dining-Out.  Cadets may also invite non-military guests to accompany them if they wish, giving family members and friends a chance to enjoy this longstanding Air Force social tradition. 

AFROTC Orientation Program

Cadets plan and organize an orientation program for new students enrolling in AFROTC. This program is designed to convey basic information on the AFROTC program, drill and ceremony, uniform wear, and customs and courtesies to new cadets. The program is conducted at the start of Fall semester.

Base Visit Program

This program is designed to expose cadets to an actual Air Force base in operation. MSU cadets travel to Air Force bases in surrounding states and have the opportunity to see that base in action.