Army ROTC Leader Development Exercise (LDX) Fall 2023 – Cadets receive squad instructions for a quick move-out and reposition patrol base front line. Photo courtesy of Cadet William Vlad.
Fall LDX (Leader Development Exercise) again at the U.S. Air Force Academy – October 19-21, 2023
Army ROTC Cadets from the Golden Buffalo Battalion trekked down to the Jack’s Valley Training Area at the U.S. Air Force Academy again to conduct their annual fall Leader Development Exercise (LDX) on Thursday, October 19 through Saturday, October 21.
Cadet Fleckenstein (MSIII), selects a suitable coverage location to set up her defensive position during the platoon training lane. Photo courtesy of Cadet William Vlad.
This year’s LDX was conducted under a modified timeframe and around a more thorough task specific training plan with only the MSIII (juniors) and MSIV (seniors) Cadets present. Cadets started the training with a written and field evaluation to test each Cadets knowledge and skills with land navigation. Once all Cadets mastered land navigation, they transitioned over to reviewing and planning different squad and combat tactical exercises that were mission specific. Numerous training lanes were coordinated to demonstrate, company, squad and platoon level movements, and patrol base operations.
Cadets receiving instructions for the next exercise. Photo courtesy of Cadet William Vlad.
All maneuvers were executed to fulfill the requirements laid out by Cadet Command. Cadets were able to experience the simulated scenarios in a realistic / hands-on manner. This type of “in-the-field” exposure to army combat techniques and unit exercises aid in the overall knowledge and leadership each Cadet builds within themselves. The MSIII Cadets use what they have learned here and apply it to their mandatory Cadet Summer Training (CST) that happens between their junior and senior year.
Congratulations to each of you on all your hard work and dedication.
Group shot of all participants for the Fall 2023 LDX. Photo courtesy of Cadet William Vlad.