Established in 1919 as a result of the National Defense Act of 1917, the Reserve Officer Training Corps program today is among the oldest departments of the University of Puerto Rico. Even the University's Symphony shares its roots with ROTC, which managed the band up to 1972. With almost a century of presence, our programs are among the oldest in the Nation. The University of Puerto Rico saw the establishment of the Air Force ROTC program during August 1950. The first two years for both the Army and Air Force programs were mandatory for all physically qualified males up until 1960. The Vietnam War era and the changing political environment brought many changes for ROTC in Puerto Rico, including location. We, however, have never lost sight of our mission and obligations to our Country. Air Force ROTC at Río Piedras will continue to commission Puerto Rico's top leaders for the world's best Air Force. Against any odds, we proudly stand together, celebrate and live our heritage; a heritage filled with times of triumph, tragedy and above all, perseverance.
