September 25, 2007

Media Advisory — ROTC rappelling exercise

Approximately 80 cadets from Southern Illinois University Carbondale's U.S. Army Reserve Officer Training Corps will try once again to rappel down the side of the James W. Neckers Building, south of the Student Center, later this week.

The exercise is set for Thursday, Sept. 27. Rain forced postponement of the initial exercise on Sept. 6.

For more than 20 of the cadets, the exercise marks the first time they will rappel — let alone 60 to 70 feet alongside a building.

The exercise is designed to help cadets develop confidence in themselves and build teamwork with other cadets, said Sgt. 1st Class Shad J. Lewis, an adjunct instructor.

Reporters and photographers are welcome to cover the rappelling exercise, which is from 3:30 to 5 p.m. The rappelling exercise itself is limited to ROTC cadets and instructors. Participating cadets and SIUC Army ROTC officers will be available for interviews. For more information on the exercise or to make arrangements for interviews, contact Major Jeremiah A. Aeschleman at 618/453-5786.