UD’s Air Force ROTC wins prestigious award
February 26, 2025 Written by Kathryn Trupia
The United States Air Force Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) recently honored University of Delaware’s Detachment 128 with the Northeast Region Small Unit Right of Line award. This award was presented to Det 128 in January.
The Right of Line award recognizes units that have displayed uniquely outstanding performance, based on officer quality, educational success and other key performance indicators. Detachment 128 was ranked first among 19 small units in the Northeast and ranked fourth in the country’s small units overall.
“I'm really happy that a small group of people accomplished something so big,” said Cadet Ian Dunne, a member of Det 128. “It couldn’t have been done without everyone involved.” Dunne, a junior majoring in criminal justice, is responsible for training basic cadets who are new to the program.
The mission of Air Force ROTC is to “develop Air Force and Space Force leaders of character whom we expect to fight and win our nation’s wars.” As the largest and oldest source of commissioned officers for the Air Force, the organization is designed to recruit, educate and commission officer candidates based on Air Force and Space Force requirements.
Det 128 can attribute this award to the unwavering discipline and determination possessed by the student officers. Whether tackling academics or field training, the officers are a part of a structured environment designed for success.
“Actions will always speak louder than words, and the cadets’ actions speak volumes; that's what makes them stand out,” said Lieutenant Colonel Brian Nicholas, Commander of Det 128. “I'm proud of each and every one of them.”
Members of Det 128 are gaining valuable lessons that will serve them beyond their time at UD. “Something [Lt Col Nicholas] always emphasizes is to ‘be a disciplined officer,’” said Cadet Dallas Wagner, a first-year student majoring in international relations. “[Air Force ROTC] is preparing us for the future workforce and life after college.”
Looking ahead, Dunne hopes that more students will consider joining Air Force ROTC to help the detachment grow and thrive.
“It's an incredible experience, as long as you don't mind waking up early.”
