Community Involvement

American Red Cross Blood Drive
Several times a semester, the Battalion helps the American Red Cross by hosting their blood drives on campus. Most Midshipmen donate their blood; those who are a little needle-shy, however, help the Red Cross set up and take down their supplies.

Veterans' Day
Every 11 November, Veterans' Day, is a day when the Midshipmen show respect for and remember those who gave their lives for our country and served in the Armed Forces; they assemble along with the other services at the Veterans' Hospital in Ann Arbor.

Program Sales
In order to raise money for the Battalion, Midshipmen sell programs to fans at home football games. Although it is hard work, selling programs proves to be a lot of fun. It not only brings in the money that allows the battalion to do all of the rest of its work as community service, but it is also a good way to meet people and promote NROTC.

Battalion Activities

Drill Team
For those who enjoy drilling and marching and are interested in perfecting their skills, drill team is a great experience. The team meets twice a week and requires steady commitment. Here, Midshipmen learn the proper way to handle a Springfield 1903 rifle - an experience to those who have never handled one before. The most exciting part of drill team is competing in the various competitions throughout the year. This year the team traveled to Tulane University.

Tri-Service Color Guard
The Tri-Service Color Guard is an exciting experience for those who enjoy drilling. It is composed of Midshipmen and cadets from all three services. Color Guard requires members to practice the correct procedure for posting colors at intercollegiate football and basketball games. Members are admitted to the games free of charge and are able to watch the game between raising and lowering the flag. Color Guard enhances the skills needed to properly present colors, and it is truly a thrilling experience!

IM Sports
For those athletes out there, the Battalion offers numerous intramural sports to participate in. This year, the sports have included basketball, soccer, broomball, and inner tube water polo. Joining a team is an excellent way to meet fellow Midshipmen and get involved.

Social Functions

Dining-In/Mess Night
Every fall semester provides the opportunity for Midshipmen to participate in the tradition of Dining-In. This dinner allows midshipmen to meet the entire staff and Battalion. It is also a great opportunity for alumni to return to the Battalion. The Dining-In consists of humorous class skits, and trips to the "Grog" for violating the "Rules of the Mess." This also gives fellow midshipmen the chance to practice their rhyming skills and adds more laughter to the evening. Dining-In is a favorite event and an unforgettable experience.

Navy Birthday
The Navy was established 13 October 1775. Every year the unit here at Michigan celebrates its Birthday. The Battalion shares dinner and celebrates the Navy's birthday with a cake. For tradition, the oldest and youngest members of the unit cut the first pieces of cake, symbolizing the 'old' traditions of the Navy and the 'new' traditions in years to come. The celebration is an excellent way to remember the traditions and honor of the United States Navy.

Marine Corps Birthday
The Marine Corps was established 10 November 1775. Every year the Marine Option midshipmen celebrate in style. They begin the day with a flag-raising ceremony, then move indoors to enjoy cake. After the cake is cut by the oldest and youngest members of the group, General Lejeune's and the present Commandant's birthday messages are read. The Marine Corps Birthday Ball is held that weekend, which proves to be an enjoyable time and an excellent way for Marine Option midshipmen to appreciate the history and tradition of their service.