Air Force ROTC at Cornell University

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Air Force ROTC at Cornell University Cornell University AFROTC 520th Cadet Squadron

Air Force Vision:

"To fly, fight, and win... in air, space, and cyberspace"

AFROTC Detachment 520 Vision:

"Becoming the cadet squadron by which all others are measured"

The Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps program here at Cornell University provides officer training for those who attend the school, as well as for students from:

SUNY Binghamton
SUNY Cortland
Elmira College
Ithaca College

In LLAB 5, Det. 520 traveled to Mt. Pleasant to execute Leadership Reaction Courses (LRCs). LRCs are team-based obstacle...
10/26/2026

In LLAB 5, Det. 520 traveled to Mt. Pleasant to execute Leadership Reaction Courses (LRCs). LRCs are team-based obstacle courses designed to evaluate cadets on leadership, followership, problem solving, and teamwork in a high-stress environment. With limited time, unexpected obstacles, and a variety of challenges, cadets had to communicate effectively and work together to develop solutions and accomplish each mission. Throughout the LLAB, cadets had opportunities to step up and lead while also recognizing when to follow and trust their teammates. The LRCs challenged cadets to strengthen their communication, adaptability, and decision-making skills while working through problems under pressure.

Welcome to Senior Spotlight! It’s time to commemorate our seniors who have put in countless hours of time and effort int...
10/25/2026

Welcome to Senior Spotlight! It’s time to commemorate our seniors who have put in countless hours of time and effort into Det. 520. This series will showcase the soon-to-be commissioned lieutenants of the Department of the Air Force, AKA, the seniors of Det. 520!

First up: the amazing C/Andrew Fujimoto!

In LLAB 6, Det. 520 focused on advancing their drill movements with counter march and column half movements, as well as ...
10/24/2026

In LLAB 6, Det. 520 focused on advancing their drill movements with counter march and column half movements, as well as learning how to perform an Open Ranks Inspection (ORI) during which cadet leaders guided their flights through a step-by-step formal inspection. Cadets practiced ORIs at rotating instructional stations before coming together and performing a Det-wide ORI as one cadet wing evaluation. Attention to detail and command presence were important qualities that cadets worked on throughout this LLAB.

On September 20th, Det. 520 hit the water at Beebe Lake! Several of our cadets took advantage of the summer weather with...
10/24/2026

On September 20th, Det. 520 hit the water at Beebe Lake! Several of our cadets took advantage of the summer weather with an afternoon of canoeing. It was a great opportunity to get outside, enjoy the lake, relax, and spend some time together in a beautiful environment. Thanks to our MWR Squadron for arranging this opportunity!

On August 29th, Det. 520 fired up the grill at our MWR BBQ on the Ag Quad! The event gave new cadets a great opportunity...
09/30/2026

On August 29th, Det. 520 fired up the grill at our MWR BBQ on the Ag Quad! The event gave new cadets a great opportunity to meet others across the detachment, build connections, and enjoy some time together in a casual environment. Huge shoutout to our MWR Squadron for planning and hosting the event and helping build community across the detachment!

In LLAB 4, Det. 520 conducted an expeditionary skills-focused LLAB. Cadets learned about Improvised Explosive Device (IE...
09/29/2026

In LLAB 4, Det. 520 conducted an expeditionary skills-focused LLAB. Cadets learned about Improvised Explosive Device (IED) response, Entry Control Point (ECP) procedures, SALUTE reports, weapons handling, and Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) 9-lines. During a GLP, cadets were separated into three groups and had to work together using the skills they had just learned to contain and control an IED. Throughout the lab, cadets worked on their communication and decision making. The morning after LLAB, cadets joined with Naval and Marine ROTC midshipmen and cadets to participate in an ultimate frisbee focused PT to celebrate the Air Force’s 79th birthday. During this event, cadets had the privilege to meet and recieve advice from Medal of Honor recipient, Lt Col. Will Swenson (US Army, ret.). Det. 520 also attended a POW/MIA Watchfire in the evening to honor the service members who were prisoners of war and those who remain missing in action.

In LLAB 3, Det. 520 cadets participated in Operation Dark Horizon, a Group Leadership Project (GLP). Cadets were challen...
09/29/2026

In LLAB 3, Det. 520 cadets participated in Operation Dark Horizon, a Group Leadership Project (GLP). Cadets were challenged to think through different problems while working under time constraints. Throughout the LLAB, cadets gathered intelligence and used it to work through different puzzles and challenges, while also responding to new injects along the way. As the situation changed, cadets had to figure out how to use the information they had and manage their time to keep moving forward. Operation Dark Horizon challenged cadets to think logically and work together while also keeping track of time, putting their leadership skills into practice.

In LLAB 2, Det. 520 conducted their first Physical Fitness Readiness Assessment (PFRA) of the semester. Afterwards, new ...
09/29/2026

In LLAB 2, Det. 520 conducted their first Physical Fitness Readiness Assessment (PFRA) of the semester. Afterwards, new cadets were introduced to the basics of drill and given practice whilst returning cadets reviewed their drill skills with practice. All cadets were given a briefing on the AFROTC Form 2, a form used to evaluate a cadet's leadership during leadership exercises. Cadets participated in Operation Shattered Sky, a Group Leadership Project (GLP) that tested their problem-solving skills and ability to perform under pressure.

In Leadership Lab (LLAB) 1, Det. 520's commander, Lt. Col. Brougham, introduced cadets to Fall 2026's semester of AFROTC...
09/29/2026

In Leadership Lab (LLAB) 1, Det. 520's commander, Lt. Col. Brougham, introduced cadets to Fall 2026's semester of AFROTC and Det. 520's cadre personnel. Following after, the Cadet Commander's Call set the tone and expectations for the semester. Cadets were given instruction on drill and a chance to practice. Afterward, cadets met with the squadrons in which they will be working in for the semester. The day was completed with a demanding Physical Training (PT) workout.

Welcome to Wingman Wednesday! A new series of posts highlighting the best friendships in Det 520 and the comradery that ...
09/23/2026

Welcome to Wingman Wednesday! A new series of posts highlighting the best friendships in Det 520 and the comradery that makes AFROTC so special. Today, we are featuring C/Halil Ahmetaj and C/Kidor Hyseni!

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Cornell University, 113 Barton Hall
Ithaca, NY
14850

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 4pm
Tuesday 9am - 4pm
Wednesday 9am - 4pm
Thursday 9am - 4pm
Friday 9am - 4pm

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