Our Story
The Silver Talons Drill Team is an extracurricular club within Air Force ROTC (AFROTC), dedicated to developing cadets through the discipline and professionalism of drill and ceremony. Our rigorous practice schedule—ranging from two to seven hours per week—alongside AFROTC training and academic coursework, teaches cadets time management, leadership and teamwork skills.
However, our mission relies on the generosity of our supporters. From equipment and uniforms to travel costs for competitions, funding is essential to sustaining our mission of leadership.
Leadership is at the heart of AFROTC, and Silver Talons enhances that through leadership opportunities at all levels:
- First-year cadets develop marching fundamentals, setting a strong foundation for their future success and providing the knowledge to guide and mentor their peers.
- Second-year cadets are provided the opportunity to lead early on, with select individuals entrusted with more advanced roles like Color Guard Commander, who oversees training and planning for events across the Linn-Benton area.
- Third-year cadets manage the entire team, handling logistics and training for more than 15 cadets, preparing them for leadership beyond the program.
- Our graduates have gone on to become Air Force and Space Force officers that demonstrate the rich culture of excellence expected of Silver Talons cadets.
Beyond personal growth, Silver Talons serves as a pillar of community outreach, performing in events like the Albany Veterans Day Parade and the Corvallis Memorial Day Ceremony. These events help foster a presence in the community while supporting our friends and neighbors who've served.
Why Your Support Matters
The continued success of Silver Talons depends on funding for our equipment and operating expenses. Your support ensures that we can continue developing leaders, serving our community and upholding a tradition of excellence.
Join us in keeping the Silver Talons Drill Team soaring—your gift makes all the difference!
Donation Levels:$25 – Provides one shoulder cord. Each cadet is issued one, but with 15 active cadets and only 8 available, additional funding ensures every cadet has a complete uniform.
$50 – Purchases one flagpole. Our aging flagpoles are essential for presenting the U.S., Air Force and Space Force flags at a wide variety of events on campus.
$100 – Covers the cost of one Honor Guard ceremonial cap, a required piece of equipment for all Color Guard events.
$250 – Funds one parade rifle. Currently, 70% of our rifles have missing components or significant visual damage. Your support helps maintain the professional appearance of our drill team.
$500 – Sponsors one cadet’s attendance at the National Invitational Drill Meet, covering airfare, food and lodging—a vital opportunity for cadets to showcase their skills and leadership on a national stage.
