Chinook helicopters airlifting KU cadets March 4 in training exercise



LAWRENCE — Army ROTC cadets from the University of Kansas Jayhawk Battalion will be getting a lift this week from Chinook helicopters as part of a joint training exercise.

Two CH-47 Chinook helicopters will land and take off from the Shenk Sports Complex at Iowa Street and Clinton Parkway on Friday, March 4, providing a training opportunity for 120 cadets.

The helicopters and air crews are from the U.S. Army Reserve 158th Aviation Regiment based in Olathe.

“This is one of our most important training opportunities of the year,” said Major Todd Haralson, operations officer and assistant professor of military science at KU. “Our cadets will gain valuable leadership experience and increase their understanding of Army capabilities. We appreciate the support of KU, the U.S. Army Reserve and the local community for supporting our training.”

At approximately 8 a.m., the cadets will march from the Military Science Building, 1520 Summerfield Hall Drive, to the sports complex, carrying nonfunctional training rifles.

The Chinook helicopters will transport cadets in two groups to Salina for training, with flights departing at approximately 10:30 a.m. and 12:40 p.m.

Members of the media and public wishing to view the exercise are welcome to do so from two areas: adjacent to parking Lot 218 on the south side of the sports complex, and Lot 301 north of the complex. Both can be accessed via the intersection of Crestline Drive and Clinton Parkway. For their safety, visitors must stay off the field itself.

The KU Army ROTC program is home to cadets from not only KU but also from Washburn University, the University of Saint Mary, MidAmerica Nazarene University, Baker University, Haskell Indian Nations University, Johnson County Community College and Kansas City Kansas Community College.

KU is one of just 50 universities in the nation offering an ROTC program that represents all branches of the military.

Tue, 03/01/2016

author

Andy Hyland

Media Contacts

Joe Midgley

KU Army ROTC

785-864-1113