Clemson Air Force ROTC earns Top 10% National Designation

By Capt Mackenzie S. Golka, USAF

Clemson University's Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC) Detachment 770 has earned the honor of being named among the top 10% of all AFROTC detachments nationwide, recognizing the detachment's dedication to excellence in training, leadership development and academic achievement.

The designation, announced by Air Force ROTC national headquarters, is based on various performance metrics, including total officer production, ability to meet requirements for officers in aviation and Air and Space Force technical degree fields, cadet quality and program cost. Clemson's AFROTC detachment has consistently produced well-rounded cadets who excel in academics, physical fitness and leadership roles. Additionally, many Clemson AFROTC graduates go on to successful careers in the U.S. Air and Space Force, serving in roles ranging from pilots and engineers to intelligence officers and medical professionals.

Cadet Wing Commander Olivia Mullikin, a senior at Clemson, emphasized how the program has shaped her future. "The ROTC program at Clemson has challenged me in ways I never imagined. Earning this designation only confirms that we are on the right track to becoming the best officers we can be."

Clemson University President James P. Clements recently celebrated the accomplishments of Detachment 770 cadets and cadre during their weekly Leadership Laboratory, emphasizing the importance of the program to the University's culture of leadership and service. "Clemson has a long and proud tradition of military excellence, and our Air Force ROTC program continues to exemplify that legacy. This top-tier ranking reflects the outstanding leadership, dedication and integrity of both our cadets and the cadre who guide them," Clements said. "We are proud to support these future leaders of our nation's military."

Col. Christopher Kiser, commander of Detachment 770, also expressed his pride in the accomplishment. "This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our cadets and cadre. We strive to cultivate leaders of character who are prepared to serve their country with honor. It's rewarding to see those efforts acknowledged on a national scale."

With the program ranked among the top in the country, Clemson's AFROTC program will continue to provide cadets with rigorous training, academic support and leadership opportunities to its students.

For more information about Clemson AFROTC, visit their website here.