SIUE ROTC Cadet Selected for Highly Competitive Summer Training
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Army ROTC Cadet John Galinski has been selected to participate in the highly-competitive Cadet Professional Development Training (CPDT) at West Point this summer. A sophomore in the School of Business, Galinski will be participating in Cadet Field Training (CFT) to reinforce his knowledge of military skills be introduced to the academy culture.
Galinski, of Troy, ranks second of 16 cadets in his cohort at SIUE based on GPA, ROTC engagement, physical fitness scores and leadership outcomes. Such attributes saw him through the Order of Merit List (OML) where he emerged in competition with top-tier cadets from 41 programs under the Brigade (BDE).
“I am honored to have been selected to represent SIUE and the Cougar Battalion at West Point, “Galinski said. “I’ve worked hard to earn this slot and I will perform to the best of my ability. A limited number of cadets nationwide can say that they have participated in this training. To be among them is awesome!”
“This training will set me up for success prior to Cadet Summer Training (CST) in between my junior and senior years,” he added. “All ROTC Cadets must complete CST to commission. I will have more experience with the material before being assessed on it. This training will develop my skills and enhance my leadership abilities. I will become a more knowledgeable and well-rounded leader through this experience.”
Major Eddie A. Woody, professor of military science, nominated Galinski, noting his outstanding academic performance, mental capability and leadership abilities.
“Mr. Galinski is extremely smart, fit and driven toward excellence in all endeavors,” Maj. Woody said. “He possesses the necessary character traits to represent the program and SIUE on a national level. In his pursuit of excellence, he remains a humble and remarkable team player. I have great confidence in him as a leader and representative of our program.”
“The CFT at West Point will have a great impact on Mr. Galinski’s tactical knowledge and provide him with the opportunity to learn and grow alongside other top-tier cadets from across the country, including cadets from the academy,” Woody noted. “CFT will prepare him for greater levels of responsibility within the SIUE ROTC program.”
“My mentors and friends within the program are the reason I am going to this school,” Galinski shared in appreciation of his support system. “They have encouraged, motivated and taught me. Most importantly, they have held me accountable. I am thankful to be surrounded by these individuals.”
Photos: SIUE Army ROTC Cadet John Galinski (third from left) stands alongside family.
SIUE Army ROTC Cadet John Galinski completes a training course.
