Leatherneck Nation

It appears the the WIU ROTC program is one of 10 ROTC programs set for closure after the 2025/2026 school year. I'm not sure what the current ROTC enrollment is, but I would imagine based on WIU's declining enrollment that the ROTC program has probably shrunk over the years as well. 

It’s sad to think about the cadets, faculty, and community who will lose this direct connection to the Army’s officer training. I understand the need for efficiency and resource management, but it’s tough to see the end of the Leatherneck battalion.

More details here: https://www.army.mil/article/286683/us_ ... timization
 
 

One more year of the ROTC cannon at the football games.


 

Did this bomb hit the administration completely out of the blue or were they forewarned?

Neckerchief wrote: Sat Jun 28, 2025 7:48 pm I'm not sure what the current ROTC enrollment is, but I would imagine based on WIU's declining enrollment that the ROTC program has probably shrunk over the years as well. 

The email from Dr. Mindrup says that current ROTC enrollment is 44.

wiu712 wrote: Sat Jun 28, 2025 11:12 pm One more year of the ROTC cannon at the football games.



 

I hope there will be some type of recognition and appreciation for the ROTC at the last home football game this year. I have personally witnessed their dedication and support at every game since the 70's, and I'm sure it has been happening longer than that.
 
 

The WIU Army ROTC program traditionally fires a cannon at home football games. The cannon, named "Donna," is a long-standing tradition at Western football games. The firing of the cannon is a way for the ROTC program to engage with the community and create a spirited atmosphere at the games.


 

Opportunity knocking for a Vet Club takeover.  How many Vet Club members do we have?  One way or another, the tradition can live on into perpetuity if the will is there.  I went to a Bill and Mary football game a few years back.  They had what looked like a WWII vet situated near the end zone manning a "Tiny Cannon".  I was within 10 yards of him when he pulled the trigger after a Tribe TD.  Damn near blew my ear drums out.  Somewhere I have a picture of it, will see if I can locate it.