Post-Intelligencer - Protecting ROTC Tradition

Op-Ed

By Rep. Stephen Fincher

The U.S. Army announced plans to close 13 ROTC programs throughout the nation -- without any warning to those affected -- back in October.

The decision placed Tennessee ROTC programs in the cross-hairs of a battle that threatened to close three programs active in Tennessee public universities. One of the programs at risk is located at the University of Tennessee at Martin.

Without these ROTC programs, not only will key opportunities be lost, but also our tradition of service may fade.

The decision to close specific ROTC programs throughout the nation was based largely on metrics applied to every school, as the Army is developing a new recruitment strategy. This strategy closes certain ROTC programs while opening new programs at schools in regions that have more diverse and dense populations.

Fortunately, after significant push-back from West Tennessee students and community leaders, we were successful in encouraging the Army to suspend the closure of all 13 ROTC programs for two years. This is an important accomplishment, as ROTC programs give students the tools they will need to become future leaders.

We should give the ROTC significant credit for the development of students who want to serve our country in uniform.

Year after year, we have sent the best and the brightest from our community to serve our nation and defend our freedoms. ROTC programs like UT Martin's also provided officers for our National Guard, who stand ready to defend and protect our nation's citizens overseas at war or at home during natural disasters.

It is important that we continue, as Americans and as Tennesseans, to work toward defending what we are known for -- our determination, diligence, commitment and generosity. Securing the continuation of an ROTC program, which is accessible to individuals with a heart to serve, will do just that.

That said, while I am thankful for the Army's decision to suspend the closure of 13 student ROTC programs, it is equally important to note that this is not a permanent fix. We still have much work to do.

Going forward, not only do we need to continue to support students who will need encouragement to participate in the ROTC, but also we need to provide support their leaders. Everyone in our community has a role to play to ensure the ROTC programs continue in our great state.

As your representative in Congress, I will continue to fight to ensure that the tradition of Tennessee ROTC continues.

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