Is Lehigh a Military School?
Lehigh University is a private research university located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and it is often mistaken as a military school. However, the answer to this question is a bit more complex than a simple "yes" or "no". In this article, we will delve into the history and current status of Lehigh University to determine whether it can be considered a military school.
History of Lehigh University
Lehigh University was founded in 1865 by Asa Packer, a successful businessman and philanthropist. The university was established to provide a higher education to the sons of coal miners and other working-class individuals in the Lehigh Valley region. Initially, the university was known as the Lehigh Valley Railroad’s "Railroad School" and was designed to train students in the fields of engineering, science, and technology.
The Lehigh University Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC)
In 1918, Lehigh University established its Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program, which was designed to train students in military tactics, leadership, and discipline. The ROTC program was a response to the need for more military officers during World War I. The program was initially known as the "Lehigh University Military Training Corps" and was led by Captain William H. H. Benkert, a veteran of the Spanish-American War.
The Lehigh University Army ROTC
In 1920, the Lehigh University Military Training Corps was renamed the Lehigh University Army ROTC. The program continued to grow and evolve over the years, with the university graduating hundreds of ROTC cadets who went on to serve in the United States Army.
The Lehigh University Air Force ROTC
In 1962, Lehigh University established its Air Force ROTC program, which was designed to train students in the fields of aviation, aeronautical engineering, and air power. The program was initially known as the "Lehigh University Air Force ROTC Detachment" and was led by Major James R. Thompson, a veteran of the United States Air Force.
The Lehigh University Navy ROTC
In 1972, Lehigh University established its Navy ROTC program, which was designed to train students in the fields of naval science, naval engineering, and naval operations. The program was initially known as the "Lehigh University Navy ROTC Unit" and was led by Commander John R. McLaughlin, a veteran of the United States Navy.
Current Status of Lehigh University’s ROTC Programs
Today, Lehigh University offers three ROTC programs: Army ROTC, Air Force ROTC, and Navy ROTC. The university’s ROTC programs are designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in military tactics, leadership, and discipline, as well as a solid foundation in the sciences, engineering, and technology.
ROTC Program Highlights
Here are some highlights of Lehigh University’s ROTC programs:
- Army ROTC: The Army ROTC program at Lehigh University is designed to train students in the fields of military tactics, leadership, and discipline. The program is led by Lieutenant Colonel Michael J. Kelly, a veteran of the United States Army.
- Air Force ROTC: The Air Force ROTC program at Lehigh University is designed to train students in the fields of aviation, aeronautical engineering, and air power. The program is led by Major James R. Thompson, a veteran of the United States Air Force.
- Navy ROTC: The Navy ROTC program at Lehigh University is designed to train students in the fields of naval science, naval engineering, and naval operations. The program is led by Commander John R. McLaughlin, a veteran of the United States Navy.
Is Lehigh a Military School?
So, is Lehigh a military school? The answer is no. While Lehigh University offers three ROTC programs, it is not a military school in the classical sense. The university is a private research institution that offers a wide range of academic programs in the arts, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lehigh University is not a military school, but it does offer three ROTC programs that provide students with a comprehensive education in military tactics, leadership, and discipline. The university’s ROTC programs are designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the sciences, engineering, and technology, as well as a strong sense of leadership and discipline. Whether you are interested in pursuing a career in the military or not, Lehigh University’s ROTC programs can provide you with valuable skills and knowledge that will serve you well in any field.
Table: Lehigh University’s ROTC Programs
| Program | Description | Leader |
|---|---|---|
| Army ROTC | Trains students in military tactics, leadership, and discipline | Lieutenant Colonel Michael J. Kelly |
| Air Force ROTC | Trains students in aviation, aeronautical engineering, and air power | Major James R. Thompson |
| Navy ROTC | Trains students in naval science, naval engineering, and naval operations | Commander John R. McLaughlin |
Bullets List: Benefits of Lehigh University’s ROTC Programs
• Provides students with a comprehensive education in military tactics, leadership, and discipline
• Offers students a solid foundation in the sciences, engineering, and technology
• Provides students with valuable skills and knowledge that can be applied in any field
• Offers students a sense of leadership and discipline
• Provides students with opportunities to serve their country
• Offers students a sense of camaraderie and teamwork
