WHEELER ARMY AIRFIELD, Hawaii — On May 28, 2025, 31 United States Military Academy (USMA) cadets temporarily assigned to the 25th Infantry Division for Cadet Troop Leader Training (CTLT) participated in CTLT Aviation Day, hosted by the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade. The event aimed to develop future Army leaders by providing a comprehensive introduction to the Aviation Branch, emphasizing leadership, flight operations, and the unique culture of aviation units.
Held at the 3-25 General Support Aviation Battalion’s 'Hammerhead' Hangar and nearby training areas, the day-long engagement exposed cadets to aviation operations, warrant officer relationships, and the critical role Army aviation plays in large-scale combat operations. Highlights included two roundtable discussions and a rare opportunity to fly aboard a CH-47F Chinook helicopter for a familiarization flight around Oahu’s training areas, an experience that left a lasting impression on many cadets.
Professional Development Through Roundtable Discussions
The event began with a formal welcome followed by interactive roundtable discussions led by experienced aviation platoon leaders, staff officers, and warrant officers. These sessions fostered candid conversations about aviation leadership, operations, and career development, offering mentorship on branching decisions.
Aviation Branch and Leadership
The first roundtable focused on the Army Aviation Branch and common challenges faced by junior officers. Discussions covered branching decisions, risk management, and Soldier counseling. Panelists shared leadership insights from high-tempo aviation environments, emphasizing the importance of maintenance operations and lessons learned from tactical operations in the Pacific Pathways environment and organizational leadership challenges.
Warrant Officer Relationships and Aviation Warfighting Readiness
The second roundtable explored the dynamic between commissioned officers and warrant officers. Two chief warrant officers 2 and one chief warrant officer 3 discussed trust, teamwork, and their complementary roles. They provided insights into planning and executing air assault operations and the synchronization required to support maneuver units. Cadets learned how aviation enhances large-scale combat operations by extending the reach, speed, and flexibility of ground forces, enabling them to sense, strike, and maneuver across the operational environment.
CH-47F Chinook Training Flight: A Hands-On Highlight
After a mission and safety brief, cadets boarded a Hillclimber (B/3-25 GSAB) CH-47F Chinook, piloted by CW2 Aaron Shelton, for a training flight that circled key terrain on the island of Oahu. For many, it was their first experience flying in an Army rotary-wing aircraft. Throughout the flight, cadets observed cockpit operations, crew coordination, and cross-country flight maneuvers, giving them an up-close look at how aviation assets are employed in support of ground operations.
The training flight not only showcased the capabilities of the CH-47F but also illustrated the logistical and tactical considerations that go into aviation mission planning and execution. Cadets left with a stronger grasp of what it means to serve in Army Aviation, from pre-mission prep to in-flight teamwork.
A Path Forward for Tomorrow’s Leaders
CTLT Aviation Day served as more than just a field trip, it was a strategic touchpoint in the professional development of future officers. By engaging directly with experienced aviators and participating in live operations, cadets gained valuable insights into both the technical, tactical, and leadership demands of the Aviation Branch.
“Events like this are essential for shaping well-rounded leaders,” panelist 1LT Jordan Gunderman noted. “We’re not just showing cadets what we do—we’re helping them envision where they fit in the Army’s future.”
As Army Aviation continues to evolve to meet the challenges of LSCO and multi-domain operations, programs like CTLT Aviation Day ensure the next generation of leaders enters the force with knowledge, confidence, and purpose – ready to take flight in more ways than one. Two additional CTLT Aviation Days will occur over the Summer to introduce 60+ additional Cadets to the Army Aviation branch.
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