Special Units

A cadet can join a special unit in addition to his or her outfit. Corps special units give cadets a unique chance to challenge themselves through training and competition. Special units serve as the honor guard for the Governor of Texas, are involved in traditions across campus, compete against other universities in competitions and represent Texas A&M and the Corps at events.

Corps Special Units

Parsons Mounted Cavalry, formed in 1973, is the successor to the mounted cavalry units that play a central role in A&M traditions. This is a ‘parade and show’ unit composed of sophomore, junior and senior cadets who represent the University at events across Texas.

Fish Drill Team, is a special unit composed entirely of freshman cadets. They compete in precision drill competitions around the country and have gone on to win the national championship almost every year since they were created in 1946.

Ross Volunteers, the oldest student organization in the state, is an honor company composed of junior and senior cadets. The unit is the official honor guard for the Governor of Texas.

The Color Guard, renowned statewide, is frequently called upon to present the Colors at Corps March-Ins and reviews as well as many events all over the state of Texas.

The Corps Center Guard composed of four platoons of cadets— each assigned to a specialty, guns, A&R (accession and research), photography and tours— who dedicate themselves to learning and presenting the heritage of the Corps at the Sanders Corps of Cadets Center.

Simpson Honor Society recognizes and rewards cadets with a cumulative GPR of at least 3.4 who foster new ideas of academic achievement, leadership and character in the Corps of Cadets and promote scholastic excellence through academic related projects including tutor assistance and operation of a study lounge for all cadets.

ROTC Special Units

Arnold Air Society (Air Force) is a professional, honorary service organization that helps provide a more efficient relationship among Air Force officer candidates, in particular within the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps.

Rudder’s Rangers (Army), named in honor of Major General James Earl Rudder, is the Army ROTC’s elite training unit for cadets of any branch who want to become proficient in small unit light infantry tactics. Rudder’s Rangers participate in two major events each year, the Winter Field Training Exercise held at Ft. Hood and the Best Ranger Competition.

Ranger Challenge Team (Army) is an Army ROTC competition team composed of sophomore and junior cadets. The team follows an intensive training regimen and competes in the annual Ranger Challenge Competition.

SEAL Platoon (Navy), is a small unit designed to familiarize highly motivated students for the rigors faced during Naval Special Warfare training. The platoon participates in pistol qualifying, SCUBA trips, rappelling and land/water navigation exercises, as well as hosts and attends major competitions around the nation.