Corps Special Units
A cadet can join a special unit in addition to his or her outfit. Corps special units give cadets a unique chance to challenge themselves through training and competition. Special units serve as the honor guard for the Governor of Texas, are involved in traditions across campus, compete against other universities in competitions and represent Texas A&M and the Corps at events.
Ross Volunteer Company
The Ross Volunteer Company formed in 1887 as the Scott Volunteers. The Company changed their name in 1898 in honor of Lawrence Sullivan Ross, former governor of the state of Texas and President of Texas A&M College. Often referred to as RVs, the unit is still the official Honor Guard of the Governor of Texas.
The ceremonial uniform is an all-white dress uniform, and Company officers carry sabers and wear red sashes inspired by the French Zouaves. Ceremonial duties include firing 3-volley, 21-gun salutes at Texas A&M’s Silver Taps ceremonies and during the annual campus Muster ceremony.
The RVs are the Honor Guard of King Rex, the King of Mardi Gras, in New Orleans, La. and participate in multiple parades around the state of Texas.
Parsons Mounted Cavalry
This horse cavalry unit consists of cavalry, artillery and quartermaster elements. Military training at A&M included mounted drill until 1943, when the Army disbanded its horse operations. The Cavalry tradition was revived at A&M by the Class of 1974. The unit was named after then Commandant of the Corps of Cadets, Colonel Thomas R. Parsons. Military horse training is used to teach cadets self-discipline, confidence, leadership, and decision-making. Learning to manage an animal much larger than themselves with a mind of its own in challenging conditions develops many of the skills necessary for modern business and military leaders. There are 90 cadets and 50 horses in this unit.
Ranger Challenge
Ranger Challenge develops elite performers within Army ROTC. Participants earn the opportunity to commit to an intensive training program focused on mastering physical performance, marksmanship, navigation, critical thinking, and leadership development in an extremely demanding environment.