Georgia Southern University ROTC Cadet Ranks 4th Nationally: A Story of Dedication and Achievement

The U.S. Army Cadet Command recently revealed the top 10 cadets on its national Order of Merit List for the 2015 fiscal year. Among them is Georgia Southern University’s Matthew Horne, who ranked fourth out of 5,617 expected graduates. Horne is not just an accomplished student; he maintains a solid 3.94 GPA and is majoring in international studies.

The rankings consider various factors, including academic performance, physical fitness test results, and evaluations from ROTC training. These criteria help determine who stands out among future Army leaders.

As the commander of Task Force SEGA, Horne leads the Eagle Battalion at Georgia Southern and collaborates with the Coastal Battalion, which includes cadets from partner schools like Armstrong State University and Savannah State University.

Beyond his military commitments, Horne is active on campus. He was once a football player and now serves as the treasurer of the university’s Arabic Club. Additionally, he is preparing for his role as head delegate for Georgia Southern’s first Model Arab League team, which will compete this spring.

Horne’s achievements don’t go unnoticed. He has made the President’s List for five consecutive semesters and received multiple scholarships, including a three-year ROTC scholarship and the Bothwell “Snag” Johnson ROTC Scholarship.

Interestingly, only one person from the Sixth Brigade, which covers the Southeast, made it to the top ranks. Horne will be commissioned as an active-duty infantry officer in May, marking a significant milestone in his journey as a future leader.

In recent years, more students like Horne are choosing military paths, reflecting a growing trend in ROTC programs. According to a 2022 report, enrollment in Army ROTC has risen by 10% since 2019. This shift indicates a stronger interest in military careers among younger generations, possibly influenced by current global events and a desire for purpose-driven careers.

Horne’s story is not just about personal success; it showcases the dedication and potential of young leaders preparing to serve their country.



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