Unit Activities

Midshipmen in the NROTC program participate in several different activities.  This section will discuss a few of these activities.

Weekly activities
In a typical week your student will attend at least two naval science lecture sessions, a naval science laboratory and physical training (PT) sessions.  The naval science laboratory may feature drill, general military training, guest speakers, or a Battalion or Company meeting. 
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Physical Training
Typically there are three PT sessions per week.  The first is for members of the Semper Fidelis society, and is conducted separately with a more rigorous scope.  The second, commonly known as Battalion PT is conducted on Wednesday morning and is mandatory for all Battalion members.  The third, Company PT, is conducted at a time that does not conflict with the members of each company (usually Thursday afternoon or Friday morning).  Company PT has historically been conducted until the biannual Physical Fitness Test, and has been converted to individual PT thereafter.  All Battalion members are expected to PT at least three times per week, for at least 30 minutes in duration, be it with the Battalion or individually.  While organized PT activities are a regular part of the Battalion schedule, each student is responsible for maintaining his/her own physical fitness.

Social activities
The University of Wisconsin – Madison NROTC hosts several social functions each semester – including unit picnics, club events and intramural sports.  These activities allow students to interact outside of the battalion and help build lasting ties between the midshipmen.
Additionally, in the fall semester the midshipmen attend the Battalion Dining-In, an exclusive and traditional event for unit members and staff.  In the spring semester the Battalion hosts the annual Spring Ball.  Family and Friends are strongly encouraged to attend this formal event!  In addition, formal events are normally held to celebrate the Navy and Marine Corps’ birthdays. 

Pass in Review and the Awards Ceremony
The annual Battalion Review is conducted at the University of Wisconsin during the spring semester, normally in conjunction with the Spring Ball.  The UW – Madison NROTC unit conducts a formal military parade before a visiting flag officer and university officials.  An awards ceremony is conducted during the Review.  Midshipmen are recognized for outstanding performance, academic achievements, and community service.  Parents are invited and encouraged to attend this event.

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NROTC Midwest Drill Meet
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Each October the UW – Madison NROTC unit hosts the Midwest Drill Meet.  ROTC units (not just Navy) from all over the Midwest region compete in drill, rifle/pistol, sailing, and cross-country endurance events.  This is a “must-see” event for family and friends!

Professional Clubs
The unit sponsors a variety of professional clubs that enrich the student NROTC experience through fun and interesting activities relating to the specific service specialties.  The clubs offer a unique opportunity for students to socialize and learn more about naval professions and career options.  Our professional clubs include:

NROTC Sports Teams
UW – Madison NROTC fields several teams that compete intercollegiately with other units around the country.  These include:  Rifle/Pistol Team, Cross-Country Endurance Team and Sailing Team. In addition the Battalion organizes intramural teams that compete on campus in basketball and other sports. 
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Color Guard & Drill Team
UW NROTC has a Battalion Color Guard and an award-winning Drill Team.  The color guard performs at local military and civilian functions, including Spring Review, and Badger football and basketball games.
The color guard, drill team, and other midshipmen participate in Drill Meets and Military Excellence Competitions with other schools from around the country.

Community service
UW – Madison midshipmen are leaders in community service; ongoing and single-day events are planned throughout the academic year. Recently our midshipmen have volunteered at the Habitat for Humanity, fundraising events for children’s charities, organized food and clothing drives, and hosted a blood drive at the NROTC unit.

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