New Mexico Military Institute Army ROTC Early Commissioning Program Handbook

Transcription

1 New Mexico Military Institute Army ROTC Early Commissioning Program Handbook Page 1 of 30

2 Table of Contents Page 3: Page 4: Page 5-6: Page 7: Page 8: Page 9: Page 10: Page 11: Page 12: Page 13: Page 14: Page 15: Page 16: Page 17: Page 18: Page 19: Page 20: Page 21-22: Page 23-24: Page 25: Page 26: Page 27: Page 28: Page 29: Page 30 History of ROTC/ECP at NMMI Eligibility Requirements Army ROTC ECP Facts Active Duty from ECP Enrollment Options Financial Benefits from ROTC ROTC Scholarships Financial Benefit Details Memorandum of Agreement (NMMI ROTC and NG/USAR) Non-ROTC Scholarships EAP (Educational Assistance Program) SMP (Simultaneous Membership Program) This Page Intentionally Left Blank Best Case Scenario NMMI Army ROTC ECP: Decisions Initial Cost of Attendance DODMERB Physical Exam and MEPS Physical Exam CIET (Cadet Initial Entry Training) and Mini-Camp Pre-Nursing Program Ranger Challenge and CLIP (Critical Language Incentive Pay) Links and References Weight for Height Table Non-Deployable Status US Army Cadet Command How to get started and Points of Contact - This document is not an official Army or Cadet Command publication although regulations and policies are referenced throughout. This handbook is designed to be used as guide (specifically at NMMI) recognizing individual cases will vary. - For changes, updates, questions, or comments please contact the NMMI Army ROTC/ECP, Recruiting Operations Officer: (575) or nmmirotc@nmmi.edu Page 2 of 30

3 History of ROTC/ECP at NMMI A Military Junior College (MJC) allows Cadets to become commissioned Officers in two years, instead of the usual four, through the ROTC/Early Commissioning Program. There are only five MJCs in the United States. New Second Lieutenants must complete a Bachelor's degree within three years after graduating from NMMI. Begun in 1966, the Early Commissioning Program (ECP) plays a major role in officer production. In some years, ECP Officers have accounted for over 60 percent of all ROTC Second Lieutenants in the United States Army. The program has major financial incentives for students who receive their commissions early and serve as Officers while still attending college and gaining service time for promotions and retirement. In 1911 the first cadets to receive commissions as second lieutenants in the Army at NMMI were Eugene Lohman of Las Cruces, New Mexico and Mord P. Short of Como, Mississippi. Five years later, Senior Reserve Officer Training Corps was established at New Mexico Military Institute on December 3, In 1965 the Military Science Department commissioned the first second lieutenant under the Army's Early Commissioning Program, 2LT Patrick H. Orell. New Mexico Military Institute ROTC continued to make history in 1997 when the battalion was named the best ROTC battalion in 4th Region ROTC, by winning the Macarthur Award. In 2007 US Army Cadet Command recognized the NMMI Army ROTC ECP as the most improved military school ROTC program in the country. Over the decades, NMMI ROTC has produced thousands of Army Officers and the squadron is consistently one of the top producers of second lieutenants in US Army Cadet Command. Soldiers and Officers that have passed through NMMI ROTC and JROTC programs have been recognized for their valor and over 30 former Cadets have risen to become flag officers. On November 1, 1988 New Mexico Military Institute ROTC took on the regimental linage of 1st Squadron, 7th Cavalry through the decree of its commander, LTC Emil K. Kluever and command sergeant major, CSM Alzalkia C. Jones. Since that day, we have been proud to be the Garryowen Squadron. Like us on Facebook NMMI Army ROTC/ECP ( Connect with NMMI Facebook: facebook.com/newmexicomilitary WordPress: wordpress.nmmi.edu/nmmipost YouTube: youtube.com/user/newmexicomilitary Page 3 of 30

4 Eligibility Requirements If you cannot meet or satisfied the US Army Cadet Command contracting requirements by the time you start NMMI your ability to contract and expected financial benefits from ROTC may be delayed. Please be prepared to assume your own financial responsibility. The NMMI Army ROTC program is a rigorous, challenging program that accepts only the most dedicated into its ranks to answer the call of becoming an Army Officer. The ECP is not something you try, the program requires commitment, dedication and hard work that has immeasurable rewards for those who succeed. ROTC is more competitive than it has been in the past. When you join our program we fill our limited ROTC contr acts based on an or der of mer it list of our Cadets. In or der to be competitive for the ROTC ECP (contracting/scholarship/commissioning) Cadets should have at least a cumulative 3.0 HS GPA and at least 24 ACT or 1100 SAT and be able to satisfy contracting requirements (be physically fit and either DODMERB or MEPS qualified and have some extracurricular activities for consideration). Although it is not required, it is beneficial to have already enlisted and have completed basic training and AIT before coming to NMMI, see more on the enlistment option on page 17. Basic Eligibility for the Army ROTC Early Commissioning Program: Age: years old (per NMMI age limit policy, age waivers up to age 22 can be submitted for prior service Cadets on a case by case basis). Must be accepted to New Mexico Military Institute by Admissions. Must be a US citizen, can not have a criminal history or history of drug use (must be of outstanding moral character). Must meet Army height/weight requirements. See page 27. If tape test is used, Cadet must not be over 20% BMI (males) and 30% BMI (females). Must pass the DODMERB Army Physical Examination (see page 20) - DoDMERB - Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board, same physical needed for any ROTC program or military academy. - MEPS can be sent to DODMERB for approval (if you have already enlisted you should have completed a MEPS physical). - MEPS and DODMERB can be used for admissions physical requirement. Pass the Army Physical Fitness Test with at least 60 points in each of the three events: - Males: 53 sit-ups in 2 minutes, 42 push-ups in 2 minutes, run 2 miles in 15:54 or less. - Females: 53 sit-ups in 2 minutes, 19 push-ups in 2 minutes, run 2 miles in 18:54 or less. *Physical fitness is critical to the ECP, we strongly recommend ECP applicants have the ability to meet minimum physical fitness standards upon entering the ECP. Must complete: - Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training (BCT/AIT, see page 17), or - the Cadet Initial Entry Training (CIET) at Fort Knox, Kentucky (see page 21). Page 4 of 30

5 Army ROTC ECP Facts (1 of 2) The ROTC and ECP (Early Commissioning Program) are the same program at NMMI. ECP is only found at the five Military Junior Colleges (MJC s): New Mexico Military Institute, Roswell, New Mexico Wentworth Military Academy, Lexington, Missouri Valley Forge Military Academy, Wayne, Pennsylvania Marion Military Institute, Marion, Alabama Georgia Military College, Milledgeville, Georgia There are also six Senior Military Colleges where many of our newly commissioned second lieutenants attend to complete their bachelors degree after NMMI: North Georgia College & State University; Dahlonega, Georgia Norwich University; Northfield, Vermont Texas A&M University; College Station, Texas The Citadel; Charleston, South Carolina Virginia Military Institute; Lexington, Virginia Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech); Blacksburg, Virginia ROTC/ECP Acceptance: Once the Cadet is accepted to NMMI and enrolls in the Military Science 3 class (and lab) he / she will be conditionally accepted into the ECP. Full acceptance into the ECP will be the signing of the ROTC contract, the first opportunity to contract will be about a month after the Cadet has been on campus. This give us time to evaluate the Cadet, finalize paperwork, administer the APFT and gives the Cadet a chance to understand the commitment they are about to make to the US Army. At most traditional 4-year schools ROTC is a 4 year program, since we are a MJC (Military Junior College) we do not have 4-years to get cadets commissioned into the Army, hence the reason for the ECP (2 year program rather than a traditional 4-year program). If a Cadet is not eligible to contract right away we will work with the Cadet to get them eligible (provided they put forth the effort and commitment). However, with limited contracts available preference will be given to those Cadets who are ready/able to contract first come first serve. Army Service Commitment: Once a cadet signs their ROTC contract, they are legally obligated to an 8-year service commitment. The commitment begins upon graduation from NMMI. The time spent completing their bachelors degree counts towards their Army commitment (up to 36 months). The new lieutenant must participate in a National Guard or Army Reserve unit in a nondeployable status while they complete their bachelors degree. See the Active Duty from ECP, page 7. Page 5 of 30

6 Army ROTC ECP Facts (2 of 2) Bachelor's Degree Completion: Upon gr aduation and commissioning fr om NMMI the new lieutenant must transfer to a four-year baccalaureate degree granting institution, which offers Army ROTC. You have 24 months to complete your degree with the ability to extend this to 36 months if needed for degree completion. You will not be in the ROTC program because you have already commissioned but will be required to remain in contact with the Professor of Military Science at your school periodically until graduation. The PMS at the 4-year school will exercise administrative control over you and monitor your physical fitness, maintenance of weight standard, personal conduct and academic progress. If you fail to complete your baccalaureate degree in the allocated timeframe, you will be in breach of your Cadet contract and subject to be called to active duty as an enlisted Soldier or face monetary recoupment in addition to having your commission being revoked. Cadets who fail to abide by the terms of their Cadet contract, or who complete the course and decline to accept a commission, if offered, may be ordered to active duty by The Secretary of the Army to serve in an enlisted grade for such period of time as The Secretary of the Army may prescribe, but not more than 4 years. All scholarship Cadets incur a payback obligation for educational expenses paid by the Army in the event they fail to complete their obligated 8-year tour of duty. Accessions - Branch/Component Selection: When a new lieutenant graduates from NMMI and transfers to the university of their choice. As a senior in college the lieutenant will be ranked on a National Order of Merit List (OML) and is provided an opportunity to complete their Army "wish list" for accessions. The majority of their accessions OML ranking is based on college junior year GPA, physical fitness, assessments from ROTC departments, and assessment at CLC (Cadet Leadership Course). College GPA (junior year) accounts for 40 to 45 percent of this OML. Accessions take place during the fall of senior year in college. The ECP Lieutenant's accessions packet goes before the US Army Accessions Board to be selected for their branch (i.e. Infantry, Armor, Transportation, Aviation, etc.), their component of assignment (AD, ARNG, USAR) and if Active Duty is requested duty location preference will be considered (i.e. Fort Hood, Fort Carson, Germany, Korea, Fort Drum, etc); ultimately based on needs of the Army. ROTC scholarship Cadets must request to revoke their GRFD control number before commissioning from NMMI in order to be eligible to compete for active duty during accessions. AD selection is not a guarantee and there is a high probability that if an ROTC scholarship is accepted the Cadet will be accessed into the RC (reserve component, either National Guard or Army Reserve). Page 6 of 30

7 Active Duty from ECP SUBJECT: Can I still go active duty after graduating from NMMI and commissioning from the Army ROTC Early Commissioning Program? The short answer is yes. However, no one is guaranteed Active Duty coming out of ROTC. As the name states, it is the Reserve Officer Training Corps. As an Early Commissioning Program (ECP) Cadet, you will be commissioned upon graduation from NMMI and will be required to serve with the National Guard or Army Reserve until you finish your bachelor's degree. Cadets must agree in writing that they will accept an appointment, if offered, as a commissioned officer in the ARNG or the USAR of the United States; and that you will serve in such component for not less than eight years, as required by Section 2107, Title 10, U.S. Code. Cadets who are not on an ROTC Scholarship are NOT assigned a GRFD control number and can compete for active duty with the Professor of Military Science s recommendation. Cadets who are on an ROTC scholarship are assigned a GRFD control number and can request to revoke their GRFD control number before they commission from NMMI, upon approval by Secretary of the Army, they will be allowed to compete for active duty through accessions during their senior year in college. Those revocation requests should be submitted before graduating from NMMI. There is no guarantee that revocation of the GRFD control number will be approved allowing the lieutenant to compete for active duty in the accessions cycle. (Needs of the Army are constantly changing). Accessions: Each year, approximately 5,300 United States Army Cadet Command (USACC) Cadets are accessed into one of the three components of the Army. To execute this task USACC uses an Order of Merit List Model. This model uses weighted criteria to measure USACCs desired outcomes. In order to create a greater emphasis on developing leader attributes during the course of the academic education, USACC is modifying the evaluation criteria for implementation in Academic Year Leaders will now focus their efforts on developing leadership competencies and attributes instead of previously evaluated events such as CLC. The goal is to develop an objective OML Model which focuses on events and /or activities which measure talent, knowledge, skill, character and the potential to serve as commissioned officers and meet the leadership requirements of the Army of This process measures officer potential across all ROTC programs and academic disciplines objectively. It utilizes OML measures which drive Cadets to develop the desired leadership, ethical and moral traits as defined by the outcome goals. In order to increase the probability of being selected into the Active Component an ECP lieutenant can position themselves as high on the OML as possible through their skills, knowledge and behaviors. Page 7 of 30

8 Enrollment Options Traditional Method: If the Cadet has completed one of the pre-requisite requirements (BCT/AIT or CIET) before Fall matriculation he/she may enter in the Fall class as an MS3 (Military Science 3 = junior level class). Cadet will attend CLC the following summer. Upon graduation from CLC the Cadet will return to NMMI as an MS4 (Military Science 4 = senior level class) and commission/ graduate the following May provided all requirements are met. The recommendation is to complete BCT/AIT before coming to NMMI (either NG or USAR) and start in the Fall semester. Beginning in Summer 2016 ALL Cadets attending CIET will be required to sign an ROTC conditional contract. Spring Semester (January) Cadet: Cadet may join the NMMI ROTC ECP during the Spring semester in January. Cadet will then attend CIET that following summer (not required for cadets who have completed basic training and AIT before attending NMMI). Upon completion of CIET the Cadet will return to NMMI and will attend CLC the following summer. Upon graduation from CLC the cadet will return to NMMI and commission/graduate in December provided all requirements are met. (Typical among prior service and transfer cadets, Lateral Entry). 4-Year ROTC Option: College Cadets who complete MS1 (Military Science 1 = freshman level course) and MS2 (Military Science 2 = sophomore level course) while at NMMI can transfer those credits to a four year school that has Army ROTC and continue in their program as an MS3 in order to pursue an Army commission. (Typical among athletes and other JC Cadets who are not part of the ECP; will require gaining school PMS approval). End of Camp Commissionee (by exception): If the cadet does not have one of the pre-requisite requirements he/she may enter in the Fall class as an MS3 the first year. Cadet will attend CIET or BCT/AIT the following summer. Upon completion of CIET or BCT/AIT the Cadet will return to NMMI as an MS3 while enrolled in MS4 classes. This method will require the Cadet to train as an MS3 for two years in preparation for CLC. Cadet will graduate NMMI and then attend CLC (Cadet Leadership Course) the following summer. Upon graduation from CLC the Cadet will become an end of course commissionee. (Professor of Military Science (PMS) approval required and variations of this method may occur on individual circumstances). Page 8 of 30

9 Financial Benefits from ROTC ALL Cadets (regardless of status/scholarship) are required to pay the initial $ matriculation fee upon arrival. This can be paid in advance. We recommend you contact the business office to make arrangements for payment. Financial Benefits from ROTC: Cadets typically begin receiving financial benefits the month following the signing of their ROTC contract on the next pay cycle. Cadets may be eligible for one or all of these financial benefits: ROTC scholarship (if awarded) Monthly ROTC stipend Uniform Commutation Allowance (one time) All contracted Cadets (scholarship and non-scholarship) receive $450/month the first school year and $500/month the second school year (stipend). Cadets typically contract after 45 days from the beginning of the school provided all requirements are met per Cadet Command Regulation. This gives the Cadre time to evaluate each Cadet while ensuring the Cadets meet all of the contracting requirements. The stipend is used for covering shortfalls of scholarships, books, etc. at the cadet's discretion. The stipend is paid for up to a total of 10 months per calendar year, up to $4500/year. Nursing 2+2 contracted cadets do not receive the $450/month during their freshman year, they go by the 4-year scholarship benefits which is $350/month. Financial Benefits from the ARNG and USAR (SMP): These benefits are not connected to the ROTC contract and can be used regardless of enrollment in ECP. Federal Tuition Assistance (TA): Cadets are eligible to use TA after they have been enlisted for at least one year from the completion of AIT (for most Cadet this means they will not be able to use TA until their second year at NMMI). The deadline for TA to be used for the first semester at NMMI is the first day of classes, this means Cadets intending to use TA needs to register before the 15 August TA deadline. Pays up to $4500/year for out-of-state Cadets tuition or 100% for in-state Cadet tuition. GI Bill: Only applies to AIT qualified Cadets (or dependents using parent GI Bill benefits). GI Bill Kicker: ASVAB score and MOS dependant, not all enlisted Cadets qualify for kicker benefit. Monthly Drill Pay: Paid to the Cadet for their monthly participation in weekend training with their ARNG or USAR unit. NMMI currently has great relationships with Norwich University and North Georgia Military College, both of whom offer several incentives to our graduates. There are 6 SMC s in the United States: North Georgia College & State University; Dahlonega, Georgia Norwich University; Northfield, Vermont Texas A&M University; College Station, Texas The Citadel; Charleston, South Carolina Virginia Military Institute; Lexington, Virginia Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech); Blacksburg, Virginia Page 9 of 30

10 ROTC Scholarships ROTC Scholarships are not full rides. We make every attempt to maximize your education financial benefits with different sources of money but make no guarantee that there will be no outof-pocket expenses. All new Cadets regardless of scholarship/benefits must pay initial matriculation fee of $ on the first day of matriculation upon arrival to NMMI which covers NMMI uniforms and initial tuition payment. (The $ enrollment fee is part of the $ ). MJC Scholarships: All five Military Junior Colleges are each allocated 22 MJC Scholarships each year by law. These scholarships are campus based where Cadets do not compete against a national selection board. Selection for these scholarships is based on the NMMI OML (Order of Merit List), this list is primarily derived from the following: Cumulative GPA ACT or SAT score (math and reading only) Contract ability (NMMI acceptance, physical fitness, medically qualified, basic course credit) ROTC Cadre evaluations (In order to be competitive for the ROTC ECP (contracting/scholarship/commissioning) Cadets should have at least a cumulative 3.0 HS GPA and at least 24 ACT or 1100 SAT and be able to satisfy contracting requirements). MJC scholarships are Guaranteed Reserve Forces Duty (GRFD) scholarships. All officers commissioned through Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) receive a reserve commission. This means ROTC Cadets will commission as second lieutenants into the Reserve Component (ARNG or USAR). Cadets must agree in writing that they will accept an appointment, if offered, as a commissioned officer in the ARNG or the USAR of the United States; and that you will serve in such component for not less than eight years, as required by Section 2107, Title 10, U.S. Code. However, Cadets can request to revoke their GRFD control number before they commission from NMMI, upon approval by Secretary of the Army, this will allow them to compete for active duty through accessions during their senior year in college. See the Active Duty from ECP, page 7. Department of Treasury, IRS Publication 970 "Tax Benefits for Education" Table 1-1 specifically states that payments of "Room and Board" are to be treated as "taxable" income. This is an IRS law and not simply a policy of U.S. Army Cadet Command. Any questions pertaining to the deduction should be addressed to the IRS for answers. Cadets are not allowed to use Federal TA and the GI Bill simultaneously but either Federal TA and the GI Bill can be used in conjunction with the MJC Scholarship: Army G1 Memo dated Sep 2009, Subject: Implementation Guidance for the Dedicated USAR Guaranteed Reserve Forces Duty (GRFD) Scholarship Program (Encl 1) specifically allowed for combining GRFD scholarships with Tuition Assistance (TA). Human Resources Command (HRC) Memo dated August 2010, Subject: Tuition Assistance (TA) For Guaranteed Reserve Forces Duty (GRFD) Scholarship Recipients (Encl 2) renders the legal opinion to prohibit the practice until the Office of the General Council (OGC) at HQ DA conducts a full review. By order of Cadet Command Chief of Staff, Cadet Command is disallowing this practice until the OGC review is complete, and a legal opinion is rendered (Encl 3). If in the NMARNG state-tuition-assistance (STA) is used in-lieu of Federal Tuition Assistance. Page 10 of 30

11 Financial Benefit Details Benefit Details: Stipend is paid via direct deposit to the Cadet s bank account and typically begin on the next pay period after signing the ROTC contract. Drill pay is paid via direct deposit to the Cadet s bank account. GI Bill and Kicker is paid via direct deposit to the Cadet s bank account. MJC scholarships: - If room/board is selected this is paid via direct deposit to the Cadet s bank account. - If tuition is selected this is paid directly to the NMMI business office. - Scholarships are paid by the end of the semester. All entitlements are typically initiated on/about the next pay cycle after contracting. It is the Cadet s responsibility to pay school debts with the ROTC money paid to the cadet. Out-of-State ARNG and USAR pays up to $4500 per year of tuition assistance if enlisted. New Mexico ARNG pays flat rate of $ per semester (in-state rate). Out-of-state Cadets can join their home of record state National Guard (or wait to join the NMARNG) but will perform weekend training in New Mexico while at NMMI (respective liaison will assist the Cadet in obtaining a signed MOA (memorandum of agreement, see page 12) with the Cadet s home state unit and in coordinating weekend drill in New Mexico during the school year). Cadets who have completed basic training and AIT are eligible for the GI Bill and kicker in addition to the stipend, SMP drill pay and to compete for the ROTC scholarship. GI Bill and GI Bill kicker are strictly for Cadets who have completed BCT and AIT. In order to use TA a Cadet must have completed at least one year of enlistment from the date of AIT completion. GI Bill is available immediately after completion of AIT. See Financial Benefits, page 9. All ROTC contracted Cadets must maintain a 2.0 CGPA in ROTC courses. Scholarship recipients MUST maintain 2.0 Cumulative GPA. Non scholarship Cadets must maintain a 2.0 Cumulative GPA. Required to participate in the SMP (Simultaneous Membership Program): Attends drill weekends once a month with an ARNG or USAR unit as a Cadet officer and is paid at the E-5 (Sergeant) pay grade. Participating in the USAR or ARNG as a Cadet will add up to two additional years calculated for experience and pay purposes once commissioned. Scholarship Information: Recipients of 2-year ROTC scholarships will receive financial assistance for 2-years in their pursuit of an Associate's degree from NMMI and a commission in the U.S. Army. During the two-year duration of the scholarship the Army will pay college tuition or room and board, whichever is chosen by the Cadet. Additionally, all ROTC scholarship Cadets will receive $600 per semester to purchase textbooks, classroom supplies and equipment. Contracted cadets also receive a monthly tax-free subsistence allowance (MS3 = $450 per month; MS4 = $500 per month). Cadets will be commissioned in the Reserve Component (ARNG or USAR) and assigned to a Troop Program Unit (TPU) (paragraph 2-16, AR ) upon graduation from NMMI provided all eligibility requirements are met. After completion of your associates degree and receiving a commission in the U.S. Army from NMMI you are required to transfer to a four-year baccalaureate degree granting institution, (which offers Army ROTC) for the completion of your baccalaureate degree. You have 24 months to complete your degree with the ability to extend this to 36 months if needed for degree completion. If you fail to complete your baccalaureate degree in the allocated timeframe, you will be in breach of your scholarship contract and subject to call to active duty as an enlisted Soldier and/or monetary recoupment. During the completion of your degree, the PMS at the 4-year school will exercise administrative control over you and monitor your physical fitness, maintenance of weight standard, personal conduct and academic progress. Cadets who fail to abide by the terms of their scholarship contract, or who complete the course and decline to accept a commission, if offered, may be ordered to active duty by The Secretary of the Army to serve in an enlisted grade for such period of time as The Secretary of the Army may prescribe, but not more than 4 years. All scholarship Cadets incur a payback obligation for educational expenses paid by the Army in the event they fail to complete their obligated tour of duty. Page 11 of 30

12 MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT BETWEEN OUT OF STATE NATIONAL GUARD/RESERVE UNIT AND NEW MEXICO MILITARY INSTITUTE ROTC SUBJECT: Statement of Agreement of Responsibilities under Provision of the Enlistment into the Reserve Component. 1. Out of State ARNG/USAR Unit: I Authorize, (Soldier Name) to train with the New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI) ROTC Early Commissioning Program (ECP) in order to satisfy monthly drilling requirements. Furthermore, I acknowledge that the Soldier will provide all unit information to include the Unit Readiness NCO or Unit Administrator (UA) point of contact. If the ARNG/USAR unit requires any administrative information on the above Soldier, the unit will coordinate with the respective designated NMMI ROTC Liaison for prompt action. Priority being Simultaneous Membership Program (SMP) DA contract. The SMP packet will be signed and returned to NMMI ROTC. I also acknowledge that the unit will accept all split training certificates or DA Form 1380 sent by NMMI ROTC as sufficient evidence of training and submit for pay. 2. New Mexico Military Institute ROTC: I acknowledge the following: a. NMMI ROTC will provide ROTC contract CC and DA to the Soldier s unit for signature and processing. b. NMMI ROTC will conduct all training to Army standards and regulations. c. NMMI ROTC will conduct all Military Unit Training Assemblies (MUTA), in coordination with the Soldier s unit, conducted and managed to meet the yearly requirement of 48 MUTA(s). d. NMMI ROTC will submit All training certificates to the Soldier s unit in a timely manner. 3. Soldier: I understand that I am a Soldier within the (State) Army National Guard or USAR (Unit) in which I have enlisted under the provisions of the DD form 4/1section C. and 4/2 Section D. I acknowledge the following: a. Conduct all training mandated by my unit to include the Annual APFT, Weapons Qualification, Medical Protection System (MEDPROS) and annual mandatory briefings IAW AR b. Maintain requirements of the Army Weight Control Program, as required by AR 600-9, The Army Weight Control Program, and physical fitness standards as required by TC , Army Readiness Training. I will participate in a semi-annual Army Physical Fitness Test and height/weight verification. c. Meet with the NMMI SROTC Army National Guard/USAR Liaison s within five days of my arrival to the New Mexico Military Institute. I must provide all contact information of the units Readiness NCO or Unit Administrator (UA) thus completing administrative actions as required. d. Should I fail to meet the academic, educational, military, physical, mental, or moral standards of my ROTC Cadet Contract and this MOU, I will have breached my contract. I further understand and agree that as a consequence of this failure, I may be ordered to travel and conduct my drill/ battle assemblies at my home unit. e. As a Soldier, I am eligible for the Federal Tuition assistance. It will be my responsibility to make sure I have all necessary paperwork submitted to GOARMY.ED in order to receive this benefit per AR Unit Commander (Date) NMMI SROTC PMS (Date) Soldier/Cadet Name (Date) ARNG/USAR Liaison (Date) Page 12 of 30

13 Non-ROTC Scholarships Non-Army ROTC Scholarships: Cadets may participate, contract, and commission in a nonscholarship status in the event they are not eligible for a ROTC scholarship or do not need an ROTC scholarship. Cadets may use any non-rotc scholarships in lieu of or in conjunction with ROTC scholarships. Scholarship coordination (other than ROTC scholarships) are managed by the NMMI Financial Aid office and require the Cadet to complete the FASFA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). and The Cadet's home state ARNG/USAR can assist non-scholarship Cadets in paying for school tuition thru the SMP (Simultaneous Membership Program). We strongly encourage future Cadets to obtain the GI Bill, GI Bill Kicker and tuition assistance by enlisting in the National Guard or Army Reserve and completing BCT (basic combat training) and AIT (advanced individual training) before coming to NMMI for the Early Commissioning Program. New Mexico students should apply for the New Mexico Legislative Scholarship. Contact the NMMI Financial Aid office for more details Page 13 of 30

14 EAP Educational Assistance Program The PMS (Professor of Military Science) at NMMI can guarantee any Cadet that commissions out of the Army ROTC Early Commissioning Progrm a two year, full tuition scholarship to any university to which they are accepted. After a cadet graduates and commissions from NMMI, the new lieutenant will attend a four year Army ROTC affiliated university. The lieutenant must earn a baccalaureate degree within 36 months, during this time they are assigned to Human Resources Command (HRC) in St. Louis, Missouri. Just prior to graduation/commissioning from NMMI, the Cadet has the option to select the EAP (Educational Assistance Program). The EAP is financial assistance is designed to cover costs beyond the tuition assistance from their ARNG or USAR unit participation for up to two years. The program will incur a one-year service obligation for each year/partial year of benefits used while obtaining a baccalaureate degree. Your follow-on school will initiate the EAP paperwork (DA Form 597-4) and place the contract in Military Personnel Readiness Jacket (MPRJ). The EAP will cover either tuition and fees or pay up to $10,000/year for room and board. Once at your four year university the gaining Army ROTC unit will assist you in completing this request. Note: Lieutenant needs to ensure this form is completed and mailed in a timely manner to get paid during the first semester. * EAP is exclusive to the MJC, see list of MJC s on page 5. Lieutenant responsibilities: Headquarters Cadet Command (HQCC) tracks lieutenants reporting to 4-yr schools and holds branching boards prior to their graduation. If there is a breach of contract HQCC will recoup monies provided per the cadet contract (CC Reg , Ch 5 for more details). Maintain a GPA at 2.0 or above (semester & cumulative) Maintain fitness and other basic soldier requirements and PASS the APFT every semester Must complete degree within 36 months Request PMS at the 4-year school to re-offer EAP (if not previously accepted) Meet with PMS once a quarter Non-deployable until after baccalaureate degree and officer basic course completion (non- MOSQ) Join either a ARNG or USAR unit (lieutenant falls under Reserve Command (RC)) Work with ROTC cadre if RC unit not available Breach of contract occurs after one of the following: GPA falls below 2.0 (semester or cumulative) Doesn t graduate within 36 months Fails to maintain fitness or other basic soldier requirements (drug test, etc.) Send memo, copy, and transcripts to EAP program manager. Failure to graduate within 36 months could result in commission revocation & MJC scholarship recoupment. Page 14 of 30

15 SMP Simultaneous Membership Program SMP: Enlisting in the Reserve Component (either Army National Guard or Army Reserve) is optional but many NMMI ROTC Cadets choose to take advantage of the opportunities offered by this program to maximize benefits while pursuing their Army commission. (Participation in the SMP is optional unless the Cadet accepts an MJC Scholarship). Approximately two thirds of our Cadets are participating in the SMP (simultaneous membership program). It is in the Cadets best interest to have enlisted in the USAR/NG and complete BCT and AIT before coming to NMMI. This will greatly accelerate financial benefits (now and in the future), physical fitness, medical screening, time-in-service, demonstrated commitment, etc. The enlisted MOS has no bearing on the Cadets future as an officer but if the Cadet does not successfully commission from this program they will return to their enlisted status to complete that enlistment in their original enlisted MOS. (A couple other reasons why we have so many SMPs: ROTC scholarships require Cadets to SMP, newly commissioned lieutenants are required to be a part of a unit while completing their bachelor's degree so it makes sense to start drilling as early as possible which maximized time-in-service for pay and experience). Cadets can enlist in their hometown/state before attending NMMI in order to get started right away. In many cases recruiters have never heard of the Army ROTC ECP and will warrant ROTC Cadre assistance to help educate the recruiter on this program. Encourage local recruiters to contact the NMMI Army ROTC Cadre as needed. Coordination with local recruiter/unit and the NMMI SMP Liaison is required to synchronize weekend training, pay, and requirements. Cadets will not IST (inter-state transfer) into the NMARNG unless they plan on staying in New Mexico. Depending on what BCT and AIT cycle dates are available will determine when the Cadet will complete training and be available to start the ECP at NMMI. Seats are often limited for BCT/AIT and cycles fill up quickly so it is in your best interest to initiate this process early and make a decision as soon as possible to avoid missing opportunities and financial benefits. If Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT) are completed before coming to NMMI, Cadets can also take advantage of the Montgomery GI Bill and possibly the GI Bill Kicker (dependent on ASVAB score) when they come to NMMI. If BCT/AIT are not completed before coming to NMMI (the Cadet is required to complete CIET instead) the Cadet can enlist into the NMARNG to take advantage of state tuition assistance and monthly drill pay but will not be eligible for the GI Bill. Acceptance into the NMARNG is done on a case by case basis. Benefits of joining the SMP: Experience and training (military, technical and on-the-job) Physical Fitness Medical/Dental Plans Life insurance (SGLI), at no cost to the service member Years in service for pay Financial assistance for continued education: tuition assistance, GI Bill, Kicker, drill pay Once you have completed BCT/AIT we will need a copies of these documents: DD 4-1 and 4-2 (Enlistment/Reenlistment Document) DD (Report of Medical History, 4 pages) DD 2808 (Report of Medical Examination, 4 pages) DD 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) DD 705 (Army Physical Fitness Test) SMP liaison contact information, page 42. Page 15 of 30

16 Split Option This page intentionally left blank. Split Option Program: The split option is a program for 17 year old high school juniors who want to get their military career started early. Students may join either the Army National Guard (ARNG) or Army Reserve (USAR) and will attend basic training during the summer between their junior and senior year. The student will return to finish high school and to her/his Guard/Reserve unit, where she/he drills (one weekend per month) for up to a year before attending job training (AIT) during the summer following high school graduation. High school seniors can also join the ARNG or USAR while still in high school but will complete BCT/AIT after graduating from HS before coming to NMMI. In some cases Cadets can attend the Leaders Training Course (LTC) in lieu of BCT/AIT in order to start NMMI during the Fall semester. Enlisting with the ARNG or USAR and attending LTC in lieu of BCT/AIT will forfeit the GI Bill and GI Bill Kicker while at NMMI but will still be entitled to the tuition assistance and monthly drill pay. If the student opts for BCT/AIT after high school graduation the Cadet will delay their NMMI start date to the Spring semester. The benefit of joining early and attending BCT and AIT is gaining the Montgomery GI Bill, GI Bill Kicker (dependent on ASVAB score), tuition assistance (available after one year from AIT completion), experience, years of service, and faster contracting into the ECP (MEPS physical will be sent to be approved by DODMERB and Cadets having completed BCT/AIT are generally more physically fit than those who did not complete BCT/AIT). The drawback to the Split Option is having signed a contract that is binding if the student does not complete the ECP program. The Cadet/Enlistee is legally required to complete their commitment as an enlisted Soldier if they don t complete the ECP. If the student does not want to join before arriving to NMMI the student can join if/when they are ready to do so once they get settled on campus. The risk is delaying the tuition assistance and drill pay financial benefits. Cadets at NMMI who enlist with the ARNG or USAR will not have time to complete BCT/AIT, therefore will not be eligible for the GI Bill and GI Bill Kicker for use at NMMI. The recommendation is to complete BCT/AIT before coming to NMMI (either NG or USAR). In many cases recruiters have never heard of the Army ROTC ECP and will warrant ROTC Cadre assistance to help educate the recruiter on this program. Encourage local recruiters to contact the NMMI Army ROTC Cadre as needed. The NG and USAR liaisons at NMMI will help Cadets coordination with out-of-state recruiters/units to synchronize weekend training, pay, and other unit specific requirements. Depending on when BCT and AIT cycle dates are available will determine when the Cadet will complete training and be available to start the ECP at NMMI. Seats are limited and cycles fill up quickly so it is in your best interest to initiate this process early and make a decision as soon as possible to avoid missing opportunities and financial benefits. NMMI NG SMP Liaison (575) NMMI USAR SMP Liaison (575) /5558 NMMI Army ROTC/ECP, Recruiting Operations Officer: (575) Page 16 of 30

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18 Start Here Read ROTC Handbook. Apply online at and be accepted to the NMMI Junior College. Yes Do you want to join the ECP to become an Army Officer in two years? No Attend NMMI JC, take Military Science 1 & 2. Cadet can later transfer to senior ROTC program at a four year university (case dependent). NMMI Army ROTC ECP: Decisions Yes Do you meet the ECP eligibility requirements? No Yes Send documents/forms: Yes -ECP Enrollment Form -139-R. Send -Copy of birth certificate -Copy of SSN card -Parental consent (if under 18) -Full body photo. No Disqualified Complete the DODMERB physical if you are not planning on enlisting into the NG or USAR before coming to NMMI. If you enlist with the NG or USAR you can use your MEPS physical for admissions and for DODMERB. To set up DODMERB call (575) = Cadet Decision Point Yes Do you want to enlist in the NG or USAR before coming to NMMI for the experience and benefits? NG Liaison (575) USAR Liaison (575) /5558 No Complete Basic Training and AIT before coming to NMMI for the ECP. CIET If you have not completed BCT/AIT you will be scheduled to attend the Cadet Initial Entry Training at Fort Knox the summer before arriving at NMMI. The ROTC Admin Office will provide your military orders, an itinerary for CIET, and a packing list. You should receive it NLT 15 May. BCT/AIT YES Qualified Find either a NG or USAR recruiter in your hometown and explain what you want to do. Enlist with the intent of joining the ECP at NMMI. Complete BCT/AIT, then begin the ECP in either the August or January Class. Complete CIET, then begin the ECP in the August Class. All ECP Cadets will compete on an OML (Order of Merit List) based on GPA, ACT/SAT score, successful completion of either BCT/AIT or CIET, APFT, medically qualified through DODMERB or MEPS, and meets the other eligibility requirements. If Cadet is selected on the OML they will be offered an ROTC contract and ROTC scholarship. Complete the ECP at NMMI: Graduate with an AA or AS degree as a 2 nd Lieutenant. No Disenroll from Army ROTC with possible benefit repayment requirements and revert back to enlistment contract. Your Army Commitment (8 years) begins the day you graduate from NMMI, you have up to 36 months to earn your bachelors degree and will receive credit towards your commitment for that time, you must participate in either the NG or USAR while completing degree but are non-deployable. Complete your accessions packet (Wish List) during senior year in college, before graduation US Army Accessions Command will determine Wish List choices (based on needs of the Army, National Order of Merit List, junior year GPA). Component: NG, USAR, or AD Branch Choice: List top 10 Duty Location: List top 3 Garryowen Strong 7 th First!!! NG or USAR: Civilian Career and/or complete Masters Degree after completing BOLC. Finish Here Active Duty: Report to Duty Assignment after BOLC. 2/3/2015 Page 18 of 30

19 Initial Cost of Attendance All new Cadets regardless of scholarship/benefits must pay initial matriculation fee of $ on the first day of matriculation upon arrival to NMMI which covers NMMI uniforms and initial tuition payment. Initial NMMI Cost Assistance with FASFA: In order to help with costs associated at the New Mexico Military Institute candidates may consider submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This is a program administered by the Federal Government and Department of Education in an attempt to assist students with collegerelated expenses. Based on the information obtained from the FAFSA the Business Office may determine the amount due at Matriculation to be less than the $ The program consists of grant and loan options based on family income. Even if the family income is substantial cadets may still be eligible for student and/or parent loan options. Student loans are deferrable while enrolled in college at least half time with repayment expected to begin six months after graduation or termination of enrollment. The only loan that will help with the $ at the beginning of school is the Parent PLUS loan. Visit for more information or to apply on-line. Contact the NMMI Financial Aid office at (575) Non-ROTC Scholarships: NMMI also offers institutional scholarship opportunities to those that qualify. Visit for a complete listing. Loan Options: If a loan option is needed while enrolled at NMMI to assist with educational expenses, upon graduation and commissioning a new lieutenant will have a student loan burden considerably smaller than other college students. With proper planning; it is very likely that these young officers can apply a portion of their monthly Battle Assembly Pay to reduce the debt. Be aware that should you start paying on the loan before you education is complete you will have to continue to pay on the loan until it is paid off. Student Loan Repayment: Many ECP lieutenants do not go to Active Duty. Instead, they serve in an ARNG or USAR unit. There are many opportunities for Guard/Reserve Officers to work for the Federal Government. Some of these positions include Student Loan Repayment as part of the employee benefits package. Reference: Page 19 of 30

20 DoDMERB Physical Exam DoDMERB (Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board) Physical Most high school counselors and JROTC instructors should be able to assist students obtain a DoD- MERB physical. DoDMERB is the physical required for all ROTC scholarships and applications to service academies. If you cannot get a DoDMERB physical on your own we can assist you after your arrival on campus and are enrolled in the ROTC Early Commissioning Program. Be careful what you mark on the form during the physical. Items required to report during medical examinations include conditions or problems that have been treated by a doctor thru prescription medications, surgeries, hospitalization, etc. Do not self-diagnose; do not volunteer any ailments that have never been diagnosed by a licensed physician. Both DoDMERB and MEPS physical's can be using for the NMMI Admissions physical requirement if you have already completed one of these physicals. MEPS Physical Exam MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station) Physical Exams and the SMP Program. If you plan on joining the ARNG or USAR do not initiate a DoDMERB physical. (If you already have a MEPS you do not need a DoDMERB, unless your MEP physical has expired.) The DoDMERB fast track system is the ONLY means to use a MEPS physical exam in place of a DoDMERB. Below are the conditions in which a MEPS may be used in place of a DoDMERB. The applicant must meet ALL the below conditions: Currently a member in the ARNG or USAR. Have qualified MEPS that is not over two years old from the date of the actual exam. Will be an SMP Cadet after contracting with the ROTC. Do not obtain a DoDMERB exam. If a DoDMERB has been started, then you must use the DoDMERB exam process regardless of a qualified MEPS. If the exam has been scheduled and you are able to cancel it BEFORE the exam date, then you may use the MEPS. All four pages for both the DD Form and DD Form 2808 should be ed or scanned to the NMMI Army ROTC cadre for submission to DoDMERB. Fax: (575) , nmmirotc@nmmi.edu RESULTS: If these conditions are met, DoDMERB will automatically stamp approved and ship a qualified PE to the school WITHOUT ANY ADDITIONAL EXAMS REQUIRED. Please do not volunteer any ailments that have never been diagnosed by a licensed physician. If you any questions please contact the NMMI Army ROTC Department at (575) Both DoDMERB and MEPS physicals s can be using for the NMMI Admissions physical requirement. Page 20 of 30

21 CIET is only for Cadets serious about joining the Early Commissioning Program. Slots are limited and CIET attendance is a privilege. If you are not prepared to complete 5 weeks of training please do not request a slot (1 mini-camp week, 4 weeks at CIET). If you request a slot but have a change of heart please have the respect and courtesy to let us know in advance so we can give your slot to someone else. Beginning in Summer 2016 ALL Cadets attending CIET will be required to sign an ROTC conditional contract. CIET is four weeks of intense classroom and field training held in the summer at Fort Knox, Kentucky. By transforming yourself through this rigorous training, you will qualify for enrollment in the Army ROTC Advanced Course (Early Commissioning Program) at New Mexico Military Institute. At CIET you experience the Army firsthand. You will receive the kind of leadership development training that is unmatched by any other program. How? By developing your potential in the most important of ways-mentally, physically and emotionally. You will be grouped into squads where you will gain experience in all leadership roles-culminating in verbal and written feedback on your improvement. You will also receive a stipend, transportation to and from Fort Knox, housing and meals. The four weeks and four phases of CIET can lead you to the ultimate goal: becoming an Army Officer. The benefits of this leadership training will extend well beyond your college years into any career you choose. You may even qualify for a two-year scholarship that may take care of your college tuition and many other expenses. All NMMI Cadets attending CIET begin with a mini-camp (typically 5 days) held on the NMMI campus, here you will be outfitted with your uniforms, break in your boots, learn some basic skills and techniques to help you at CIET, and begin to build friendships with your fellow classmates. Cadets will be up early each day for Physical Training which will include running, strength training, the obstacle course, ropes course, Leader Reaction Course, and the Fitness Factory. Later in the day Cadets will receive the basics of Drill and Ceremony, classroom instruction, as well as being welcomed by members of the senior administrative staff. CIET Benefits Cadet Initial Entry Training (Mini-Camp) Attendees are paid to complete CIET (approximately $850 for four weeks). CIET is a great resume builder for any college student looking to improve their character and leadership attributes. CIET is completed before NMMI New Cadet matriculation in August. CIET provides Cadets with basic course credit needed to contract with the ECP. CIET is an outstanding team building experience and introduction into Army ROTC. Page 21 of 30