In straight rows across the lawn, more than 150 cadets from Oregon State University's Reserve Officer Training Corps marched in front of their friends, family and peers at the Joint Service Review on Friday morning at the Memorial Union quad.
"It's a parade," said Master Sgt. Todd Carlsrud said of the 93rd annual event. "It's about camaraderie between the services."
Oregon State University's ROTC program has programs in four branches of the military - Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines - and all were present to show their respective colors Friday.
"It's like a sibling rivalry," said Battalion Commander Eric Larson. "You're a family, and you work for the same team, but there's some competition - like who looks the best."
For the men and women in the programs, the event also is about a tradition that dates back to World War I.
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After graduation, the cadets will enter the military as officers. Friday, they showed off their hard work and discipline before about 100 onlookers.
"It's a proud moment," said Laurie Worden, 49, of southern California. She's in town for OSU Mom's Weekend and to see her son, Matthew Worden, take part in the review. He is a senior in the ROTC Navy program.
"They're all training to be officers. They want it, and they're not afraid to do it," said Laurie Worden.
Emily Gillespie can be reached at 541-758-9548 or [email protected].
