For Andrew Prueter, seeing his name placed on “CMU’s Finest” board with the 11 other cadets joining the ROTC was a defining moment.

Prueter, a Walled Lake freshman, signed the contract Wednesday in Finch Fieldhouse to become an officer in the United States Army after college.

Andrew, studying military science and criminal justice, said his decision was a recent one, but also the right decision for him.

“It feels good to have signed a contract,” Andrew said. “I’ve done a lot of work.”

The ceremony, held in front of family, officers, instructors and fellow cadets, also solidifies the cadet’s scholarships, which includes free tuition, books and a stipend.

Upon completion of their academic degree and the ROTC program, the group of 10 freshmen and 1 junior will be officers at the rank of Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. They then are committed to four years of active duty and two years in the Army Reserves.

The event was especially significant for Tim and Kim Prueter, Andrew’s parents, who drove more than two hours to attend the ceremony.

“We are very proud of him,” Kim Prueter said. “We wouldn’t have missed it for anything.”

Looking to join?

Assistant Professor of Military Science Capt. Ryan Finley said there are certain requirements to join the ROTC program.

Cadets have to have at least a 2.5 GPA and score 60 percent or higher on a three-part physical consisting of pushups, sit-ups and a two-mile run. Cadets also must pass a medical physical examination and a background check.

Nicholas Kroll, a Zeeland senior and communications officer for the ROTC, said anyone can join the ROTC program, given that they meet the requirements, even if they do not intend on entering the military after graduation.

“You can join the ROTC program for a military science major or minor and not sign a contract,” Kroll said.

E-mail the author: Luke Dimick