Over the years, the Corps of Cadets have had many activities to occupy their time when not pursuing their academics or the main ROTC curriculum. Today, the Military Science Department sponsors the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Company, the National Society of Pershing Rifles, and the Ranger Company as the three cadet extra curricular organizations. Each of the Clubs has its own niche as far as "specialty areas" and the type of cadets and regular UD students that are attracted to them. Indeed, all three activities have non-ROTC students who have joined their ranks to participate and experience the challenges, friendship, and camaraderie they offer.

RANGER DETACHMENT

Like their infamous predecessors, Roger's and Darby's Rangers, the Cadet Ranger Company's origins and deeds are clouded in myths and mystery. Nowhere in the files of the Military Science Department or the archives of the University can the beginning of the "Rangers" be traced. But sit down with a former cadet from the 1970's or 1980's and mention the Ranger unit and watch their eyes light up and listen to the excitement in their voice as they tell you "what really happened!" Indeed, what really happened when they went white water rafting in West Virginia or rock climbing out at Hocking Hills State Park; when they ambushed the MS III's during pre-Advanced Camp training at Wright Patterson Air Force Base or rappelled down the face of Miriam Hall on campus.

PERSHING RIFLES

The first national fraternity recognized on the University of Dayton's campus was the Pershing Rifles. Their origin dates back to the honorary military society of Dickman Rifles which was formed in February 1931. The unit was named in honor of Major General Joseph T. Dickman, Class of 1871, one of UD's most illustrious military alumnus. The purpose of the "Rifles" was to recognize those basic course cadets who attained a high degree of military ability and who displayed a keen interest in military science courses. In May of 1931, the Dickman Rifles were invited to a Pershing Rifles drill competition hosted by Ohio State University. Their introduction and exposure to the National Society of Pershing Rifles lead to a petition from the members of the Dickman Rifles to join the National Society. They received their charter on 12 February 1932 as Company E, First Regiment of the Pershing Rifles. The Pershing Rifles had its origin in 1894, when future General John J. "Black Jack" Pershing, then a Second Lieutenant in charge of military instruction at the University of Nebraska, started a "Varsity Rifles" drill team. A year later, the unit was recognized as a fraternity and took on the formal name of "Pershing Rifles" in honor of their founder and mentor, 2LT Pershing. Throughout its history, UD's Pershing Rifles have been the mainstay for the University's Military Color Guard at sporting events and special ceremonies, hosting and competing in statewide and national drill competitions, and have been the driving force behind most of the Cadet Corps' social functions. After a brief period of inactivation during World War II, the "PR's" were re-chartered as Company B, First Regiment and continue on in the proud traditions and heritage. The Pershing Rifleman takes the initiative and with foresight, accomplishes what has to be done. A Pershing Rifleman cannot be clearly described, for they are a special breed... for they are "a cut above the rest!"
 
ASSOCIATION OF THE UNITED STATES ARMY

For over 40 years, the National Association of the United States Army (AUSA) has been on the leading edge of educating the public about the Army, developing the professionalism within the Army, serving as a liaison with American Industry for the needs of the Army, and securing vital support from Congress and the Administrations for the essence of the Army, its people -- the Active, Reserve, and National Guard soldiers, Department of the Army civilians, retirees, and family members. The Corps has had an AUSA Chapter or Cadet Company off and on for over 30 years. The cadets have done their part in fulfilling the National Organization's goals and objectives on campus and throughout the greater Dayton area. Most recently re-activating their charter in October 1991, the Company is "setting the standard" for all other Army ROTC units across the nation. At the 1994 National Convention held in Washington, D.C., "The Fighting Flyer" Company was recognized as the largest AUSA ROTC Company in the country. The previous year, they took honors for the most active company with meetings and activities. Whether it is hosting guest speakers from foreign countries, inviting combat veterans from World War II to come and speak to the Cadet Corps, or lending a hand on campus during UD's Christmas on Campus festivities, you will always find AUSA cadets involved and leading the way.