Delaware National Guard - DNG News 2002

During our November drill, members of the Army National Guard held Officer Candidate School (OCS) briefings in order to solicit and inform potential candidates.

Brig. Gen. Ronald Stewart advises would-be candidates that Officer Candidate School allows enlisted soldiers to receive leadership training that is unparalleled in any other industry. "The leadership skills that you gain apply not only to your career here, but extend to all aspects of your life," he said. "They make you a better parent, a better educator, a better employee, and a better citizen."

OCS Company Commander, Maj. John Trunzo, who has witnessed over 16 years of change himself, describes what the Officer Review Board is seeking as they select the leadership of the 21^st century: leaders with the courage, talent, and ability to be leaders during inevitable change.

OCS is intended to assess and develop leadership skills in those soldiers with leadership potential. The program is designed to be challenging.

Current Officer Candidates Reid Castor, Jaime Wolhar, and Deborah Welch – who will graduate with Class #46 – were on hand to answer any questions regarding their experiences with OCS.

Aspiring candidates must meet certain criteria prior to enrollment in the program, including age and education requirements.

In addition to the ‘traditional’ OCS course – which is 18 months in duration, there is now an ‘accelerated’ program with an 8-week duration. During enrollment in the course, candidates will hold a rank of E-6.

Officer candidates must possess 60 college credits prior to enrollment, and must have attained 90 before completion. Those who choose the accelerated course must have 90 prior to enrollment.

Soldiers that are interested may contact CW4 Roger Perry, RTI Training Administrator, with further or more specific questions.