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upcoming Annual Training missions at the Army Training Centers where they will conduct basic training or IET. The real world experience was especially helpful for Drill Sergeant Candidates (DSC) who will soon be departing for Drill Sergeant School.The candidates had the opportunity to see their fellow drill sergeants in action. Cpl. Jessica Bailey, one of 1-330th’s female DSC, had the opportunity to participate in the evaluation and watch some of the best drill sergeants in the battalion, including Staff Sergeants Joyce Cripe and Melissa Miller, the two female drill sergeants currently serving with 1-330th. “Having these female Soldiers
participate in this event is especially exciting,” said Mr. Mark Swenson, Purdue University Army ROTC Operations Officer.“They are a positive role model of strength and professionalism for our female ROTC cadets and the junior ROTC participants.Their participation sends a message to the observers and competitors that this Army is a place where women/female Soldiers can lead and be successful.” More than 400 JROTC cadets, nearly 30 drill sergeants, and the entire Purdue Army ROTC program participated in the event, with several hundred parents and Family members watching. Twenty-nine Soldiers participated
Staff Sgt. Drew Jeffers, C/1-330th Regiment, 95th Training Division (IET) Fort Wayne, Ind. evaluates Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps Soldiers during a drill competition hosted by Purdue University on February 12. Photos by Capt. Mark Swenson, 1-330th Regiment, 95th Training Division (IET)
in the event from the 1-330th Infantry Regiment. Of the 29, 19 were drill sergeants.Additionally, Capt. Robert Bahler,Alpha Company Commander and a Purdue Army ROTC alumnus, was able to attend and provide additional Soldiers to support the event from his company. As the competition ended, drill sergeants gathered in the Purdue Army ROTC offices for a small ceremony where they received
recognition from their active duty counterparts including Certificates of Achievement and Commander’s Coins from the Purdue Army ROTC Professor of Military Science, Lt. Col. Jerry Hubbard. For more information, comments, or questions about joining the unit, please contact Capt. Mark Swenson, A Co., 1-330th Regiment Commander via phone 815-922-0709 or email mark.a.swenson.mil@mail.mil.