Cadet Life

Student First, Airmen and Guardians Always

At Detachment 005, you're joining more than just an AFROTC unit; you become part of the Auburn Family. Cadet life here seamlessly integrates rigorous military training with a strong commitment to academic excellence. While our focus is on developing future leaders with a solid foundation in Air Force principles, we also emphasize the importance of academic success, ensuring that cadets maintain high performance in their studies while preparing for their careers.

In addition to their training and academics, cadets are encouraged to immerse themselves in campus life through various extracurricular activities and student organizations. This involvement enriches their overall college experience and helps them build essential leadership and teamwork skills. Our mentor groups, composed of experienced upperclassmen, offer guidance and support, helping cadets balance their responsibilities and make the most of their time at Auburn. This holistic approach ensures that cadets thrive both as students and as active members of the Auburn community.

Get Involved

Det 005 has many opportunities to get involved, including clubs like Honor Guard and Arnold Air Society. These clubs give current and incoming cadets the chance to hone their skills, make friends, get on the field during football games, and serve their community.

Honor Guard

The Flying Tigers Honor Guard is a cadet led and run drill team that represents Detachment 005, Auburn University, and the Air Force and Space Force to the general public. We uphold the Air Force core values through our selfless service to the public and the training it encompasses. Additionally, our team is charged with living in accordance with the values of military officers -- both in and out of uniform. Honor Guard engages with the Auburn-Opelika community through formal events; including graduations, formal balls, and other events requiring our military excellence. Honor Guard members must complete new initiation training, volunteer for activities delegated to honor guard for specified events and attend required practices for events.

Image of cadets at a community service event

Arnold Air Society

Arnold Air Society (AAS) is a national community service organization that benefits the surrounding community as well as get leadership experience to apply to AFROTC training. AAS offers extra training and practice relative to AFROTC curriculum, networking opportunities through regional and national conventions, and ways to serve the local Auburn-Opelika community. AAS members must complete candidate training, attend meetings, and contribute to their respective squadrons and ROTC detachments. All activities involving AAS will be organized with the respective cadet officer in charge and will be run through the AAS Squadron Commander.

Image of cadets wearing weight vests posing before a ruck.

Special Warfare Prep

The purpose of SpecWar Prep is to help prepare cadets, both mentally and physically, who are interested in a Special Warfare career in the Air Force. Through this club cadets will endure vigorous workouts, build leadership skills, and redefine what one thinks is possible.

Image of cadets demonstrating combatives moves.

Combatives Club

Combatives Club is a cadet led club to teach and execute the basic foundations of Air Force grappling. Combatives is composed primarily of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu teachings and has opportunities to execute “live” training sessions with other cadets.

Last updated: 10/15/2024