LEXINGTON, Va. Dec. 12, 2024 — Seventy cadets from Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine ROTC programs competed in a series of challenging tasks attempting to earn a German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge (GAFPB).

The challenges took place at VMI Nov. 16 and 17. Events included the Basic Fitness Test, marksmanship, a six-kilometer ruck march, and a 100-meter swim in uniform. Of the initial participants, 57 advanced to the final phase, which is pistol qualification.

Ultimately, 43 earned the prestigious GAFPB, which was presented to them Dec. 9 in Memorial Hall. Nathan Franchebois '25 and Emma Cameron '25 received recognition as the top male and female competitors. 

Capt. Pauline Johnson, assistant professor of military science, coordinated and planned the logistics for this event, in partnership with Lt. Col. Patricia Hardin, faculty advisor of the program and associate director in the Office of Global Education, and Reese Lassiter ’26, the GAFPB cadet in charge.

They expressed gratitude for all who offered “steadfast support” through the process, including Leutnant Steffen Große-Katthöfer, international student at The Citadel; Chief Warrent Officer Paul “Gunner” Lahah, VMI combat shooting coach; and Col. Bill Bither, VMI rifle coach.

Hardin sees the importance of this badge, saying, “It gives our cadets a chance to connect with foreign officers and non-commissioned officers. For the military science cadets, earning this badge is a significant achievement for their future careers in the Army. It is also among the few foreign insignia that Army personnel are allowed to wear on their uniforms.” 

“The event concluded successfully, showcasing the grit, resilience, and international camaraderie of all participants,” said Johnson.

- VMI -