Posted on March 19, 2026 by UT San Antonio Army ROTC
For the first time, the Roadrunner Battalion conducted a staff ride in the National Capital Region.
UTSA Army ROTC cadets with Under Secretary of the Army, Hon. Michael A. Obadal, at the Pentagon
The University of Texas at San Antonio Army ROTC conducted a Staff Ride to the National Capital Region from March 10–14, 2026, as a capstone professional development experience for Military Science IV (MS IV) (Seniors) cadets preparing to commission as Second Lieutenants in the United States Army in May 2026. The purpose of the visit was to reinforce lessons in leadership, service, and sacrifice by connecting classroom instruction with historical reflection at significant national sites.
The staff ride included visits to several historical and national institutions in Washington, D.C. Cadets conducted briefings, participated in guided discussions, and reflected on the responsibilities associated with officership and leadership in the profession of arms.
Arlington National Cemetery
Cadets visited Arlington National Cemetery and reflected on the legacy of service and sacrifice represented by those laid to rest there. Discussions focused on leadership responsibility and the obligation officers carry toward the Soldiers they lead.
Pentagon
Cadets visited the Pentagon and met with the Under Secretary of the Army, Hon. Michael A. Obadal, who spokeabout leadership, service, commitment, and the responsibilities associated with officership. The engagement provided cadets an opportunity to hear directly from senior Army leadership.
U.S. Capitol
Cadets visited the U.S. Capitol and met with Senator Ted Cruz, who spoke about leadership, public service, and the relationship between the Army and the nation it serves. The visit provided cadets insight into the role of national institutions and the responsibilities associated with serving the nation.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
At the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, cadets reflected on the individual sacrifices represented by the names on the wall. Discussions emphasized the human cost of war and the responsibility leaders have toward those they lead.
World War II Memorial
Cadets examined the scale of national mobilization during World War II and discussed the leadership required to lead Soldiers during times of national crisis.
Lincoln Memorial
At the Lincoln Memorial, cadets discussed the burden of leadership during periods of national conflict and the moral responsibility leaders bear when decisions affect the lives of others.
National Museums
Cadets also visited the National Museum of American History and the National Air and Space Museum, where they examined exhibits highlighting the evolution of American service, innovation, and military history.
The staff ride reinforced several important lessons:
- Leadership carries responsibility for the lives and welfare of Soldiers.
- Military service requires a commitment to sacrifice and dedication to the nation.
- Officers must understand the legacy and history of those who served before them.
- Ethical leadership and stewardship of the profession are central to officership.
The experience allowed cadets to connect their ROTC classroom education with the realities of military service. Through historical reflection and engagement with senior leaders, cadets gained a deeper appreciation for the responsibilities they will assume upon commissioning.
This marked the first time the UT San Antonio Army ROTC program conducted a staff ride in the National Capital Region. The experience proved to be a valuable professional development opportunity that reinforced the principles of leadership, service, and sacrifice while helping prepare MS IV cadets for the transition to commissioned service in the United States Army.
— UT San Antonio Army ROTC
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