Posted on May 3, 2019
Would an ROTC cadet killed in the line of duty qualify for a military funeral?
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One of the two students killed at UNC-Charlotte was an ROTC cadet. Killed while trying to take down the shooter. Would he qualify for (1) a military funeral, (2) a posthumous commission, (3) a decoration for valor [Soldier's Medal?], (4) all of the above, (5) none of the above?
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ROTC Instructor
ROTC Instructor
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 8
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I don't know whether he DOES qualify, but under those specific circumstances, he SHOULD.
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Brad Miller
New reporting this morning indicated he will be buried with military honors, I expect that this is an exception to policy. Military burials and funerals are a VA benefit and cadets are eligible on a very narrow basis for VA benefits. I would not be surprised to find that his ROTC detachment would conduct the honors.
I don't expect that he will be posthumously commissioned.
Awards: Cadet Command Regulation 672-5-1 has an appropriate Cadet Award that could be used.
Chapter 3, Cadet Awards
3-1. Scholarship Awards
See CCR 145-1, Army ROTC Scholarship Policy, Administrative and Procedural Instructions.
3-2. DA Awards to Cadets
a. ROTC Medal for Heroism. A Silver Medal (SM) pendant with ribbon bar, for ROTC Cadets who distinguish themselves by acts of heroism performed on or off campus.
(1) Criteria:
(a) The achievement must result in an accomplishment so exceptional and outstanding as to clearly set the individual apart from fellow students or from other persons in similar circumstances.
(b) The performance must involve the acceptance of danger or extraordinary responsibilities, exemplifying praiseworthy fortitude and courage.
Soldiers Medal would be considered if the cadet were on CTLT or similar training with active duty personnel. I believe the West Point Cadet who performed heroically in the Kenya Embassy bombings was recognized with a Soldier's Medal. The Army is pretty tight with Soldiers Medals. It is a three star commander approval level, in the case of Cadet Command, HQDA approval.
New reporting this morning indicated he will be buried with military honors, I expect that this is an exception to policy. Military burials and funerals are a VA benefit and cadets are eligible on a very narrow basis for VA benefits. I would not be surprised to find that his ROTC detachment would conduct the honors.
I don't expect that he will be posthumously commissioned.
Awards: Cadet Command Regulation 672-5-1 has an appropriate Cadet Award that could be used.
Chapter 3, Cadet Awards
3-1. Scholarship Awards
See CCR 145-1, Army ROTC Scholarship Policy, Administrative and Procedural Instructions.
3-2. DA Awards to Cadets
a. ROTC Medal for Heroism. A Silver Medal (SM) pendant with ribbon bar, for ROTC Cadets who distinguish themselves by acts of heroism performed on or off campus.
(1) Criteria:
(a) The achievement must result in an accomplishment so exceptional and outstanding as to clearly set the individual apart from fellow students or from other persons in similar circumstances.
(b) The performance must involve the acceptance of danger or extraordinary responsibilities, exemplifying praiseworthy fortitude and courage.
Soldiers Medal would be considered if the cadet were on CTLT or similar training with active duty personnel. I believe the West Point Cadet who performed heroically in the Kenya Embassy bombings was recognized with a Soldier's Medal. The Army is pretty tight with Soldiers Medals. It is a three star commander approval level, in the case of Cadet Command, HQDA approval.
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Sgt Dan Catlin
I was going to respond "There are always exceptions." Glad to hear in this case someone that matters agreed!
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LTC Jason Mackay
Brad Miller more detail on what was done and the Cadet's status. Not a contracted cadet. https://www.army.mil/article/222023/unc_charlotte_student_awarded_rotc_medal_of_heroism
UNC Charlotte student awarded ROTC Medal of Heroism
The ROTC Medal of Heroism was posthumously awarded to the family of Riley Howell during a private ceremony held at the University of North Carolina Charlotte May 11 in recognition of his actions when a gunman opened fire on students at the school Apr...
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Brad Miller
LTC Jason Mackay - "Only the good die young". I know it's hyperbole, but it seems to bite harder when the potential is cut off before it can blossom.
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One of the high school kids killed in Florida was in JROTC. Although he was not officially entitled to anything, I believe he was given the honor of a military burial to the discontent of many. Quite frankly, I was pleased he was provided the recognition. Yes, you can argue about contracts and oaths, but what made the men who died that I knew, and there were to many, different was their mental attitude and their heart. If he was taking action against the killer, I'm sure my departed brothers will embrace him.
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