UNC Charlotte student awarded ROTC Medal of Heroism

By Michael Maddox, ROTCMay 20, 2019

UNC Charlotte student awarded ROTC Medal of Heroism
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The ROTC Medal of Heroism was posthumously awarded to the family of Riley Howell during a private ceremony held at the University of North Carolina Charlotte, May 11, in recognition of his actions when a gunman opened fire on students at the school on April 30.

According to the award summary, "He protected his fellow classmates by tackling the suspect and using his body as a human shield. His actions that day left him mortally wounded, but he saved an undeterminable amount of lives. Mr. Howell demonstrated the values of the United States Army by showing a high level of integrity, honor, and selfless service on that fateful day."

Even though Howell was taking ROTC courses, but was not contracted to become an Army officer, Lt. Col. Chunka Smith, Professor of Military Science at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, said he always set a great example and would have made an excellent officer.

"Though our time with Riley was brief, I can tell you that he stood out. I make it a point to shake the hands of all 180 Cadets in our program. All of them are phenomenal men and women, but Riley stood out because of his strong, tall, athletic build and his overall calm presence," he said. "He embodied everything we look for in future officers.

"At the end of each semester my cadre and I sit down to review line by line all of the students on path to contract and those who we want to recruit. Riley was one of those individuals I would have called into my office to recruit," Smith said.

He went on to say Howell and his actions would not soon be forgotten.

"Each year 180 plus Army ROTC students will know the story of Riley Howell and the sacrifice he made. They will carry and spread the legacy of Riley Howell," Smith said.

The ROTC Medal for Heroism is awarded to cadets who distinguish themselves by acts of heroism performed on or off campus. According to Cadet Command Regulation 672-5-1, "The achievement must result in an accomplishment so exceptional and outstanding as to clearly set the individual apart from fellow students or from other persons in similar circumstances," and "the performance must involve the acceptance of danger or extraordinary responsibilities, exemplifying praiseworthy fortitude and courage."

Related Links:

Army.mil: Reserve News

Army.mil: Soldiers

U.S. Army Cadet Command (ROTC) on flickr

Army ROTC on Instagram

Army ROTC on YouTube