One Cadet Corps tradition is the awarding, and wearing of the Red Beret for completing the CACC-conducted survival course.  This course is the most-difficult course in the Cadet Corps and successful completion means that cadets are entitled to wear the Red Beret.

 

 

The Stilwell Saber, named after General Joseph W. Stilwell, is presented annually to the Outstanding Overall Cadet, Senior Division during the yearly state-level Individual Major Awards (IMAs).

 

The Cadet Corps Summer Encampment began with the start of the program in the early 1900s. It was reestablished after a more than twenty year’s absence due to financial restrictions in 2013. Summer Encampment serves as an opportunity for Cadets to apply skills learned during the school year to realistic field experience as well as learn new skills that cannot be taught at the school level. It is also an opportunity for advanced Cadets to develop their leadership skills by planning, executing, and supervising many aspects of Summer Encampment.

 

Cadet Officer Candidates, although not officers, are often addressed as “sir” or “ma’am” due to being the highest-ranking cadet in a unit. The red pip has been used as the insignia for Officer Candidates. It is customary that a cadet who becomes a cadet officer gives a $1 bill to the first enlisted cadet that renders a salute.

 

Shoulder cords in the CACC are used to denote positioning on a staff or special team with one exception. The Superior Uniform Shoulder Cord is awarded weekly to a cadet with the best uniform based on the weekly in-ranks inspection. In the CACC, cords of one solid color are worn on the left shoulder while cords of two colors are worn on the right shoulder.

 

Unit names given down to the squad level as an unofficial name. Traditionally the battalion adopts the school mascot or another prominent aspect of the school as part of its name, ex. Surfrider Battalion. Rough Riders Platoon. This carries over to some events like Drill Academy and XTC where small unit training and teamwork is emphasized.

 

When an officer says that he wishes, or desires, or thinks it would be nice that something be done, cadets should consider that wish an order.

 

Rather than raising an open hand, Cadets traditionally raise clenched fist when they have a question.