Events

New Student Orientation (NSO)

As freshman year of college begins, all incoming Midshipmen, either scholarship recipients or College Programmers, are invited to attend a three-day New Student Orientation (NSO).  This orientation is separate from the Universities’ orientations and provides an introduction to military standards prior to the start of classes.  NSO is not mandatory; however, it is highly encouraged in order to learn the fundamentals of drill, U.S. Navy and Marine Corps traditions, customs, courtesies, expectations, and physical training (PT).  The entire purpose of this process is to introduce new Midshipmen to the Naval Service, meet their fellow classmates within the Battalion, inform them of what is expected and what to expect for the next four years of college, and set them on the right course for academic and military success.  At the completion of this orientation a swearing in ceremony will be held.

Northwest Navy

An annual competition comprised of several events between the Northwestern NROTC Units: University of Idaho/Washington State University, University of Utah, Oregon State University, and the University of Washington.  It occurs during the spring semester, and each school rotates hosting the event.  During the 2023-2024 academic year it will be hosted at University of Utah.

Navy and Marine Corps Ball

In celebration of the founding of the United States Navy and Marine Corps, every fall semester the NROTC holds an annual Navy and Marine Corps Birthday Ball.  This event is also celebrated by the operating forces.  By continuing with this tradition, it allows Midshipmen the opportunity to learn the proper military customs prior to entering Active Duty.  Formal attire and dates are encouraged at this occasion as the ceremony is followed by a formal dinner and dancing. 

Dining In/Out & Mess Night

These are other traditional occasions that transpire in the operating forces.  Generally, this is an annual event held every spring semester by the Battalion. The entire NROTC unit, Active Duty personnel, and staff come together for an enjoyable night of camaraderie over a wholesome meal.  

Pistol/Rifle Team

The Naval Science building is equipped with a small bore firing range, giving the members of the pistol/rifle team optimal practice availability to perfect their marksmanship.  In previous years several of our Midshipmen have competed at the national level through the Precision Marksmanship Society at the University of Utah.  The NROTC Pistol/Rifle team also competes during Northwest Navy.

Color Guard

A highly visible representation of the NROTC, which is called upon to participate in several events throughout the academic year. These ceremonies range from University of Utah sporting events, the Northwest Navy competition, and the Veteran’s Day ceremony.

Drill Team

This team is comprised of all freshman and upper-class Midshipmen in leadership positions.  These individuals learn basic handling skills of a rifle and memorize a vast amount of military knowledge to perform precise marching movements based upon verbal commands.  The NROTC Drill team also competes during Northwest Navy.

Community Service/Other Extracurricular Activities

The Battalion participates in several community service programs such as volunteering at Primary Children’s Medical Center and visitation at the homes of veterans.

 

On top of all these programs, Midshipmen still make time to participate in clubs, student organizations, and jobs.  There are a variety of opportunities available to Midshipmen and the NROTC encourages such experiences!