After impressing his commanding Air Force ROTC officers and fellow cadets for the past two years, Boston University junior Michael Patrick Fazio was voted the top overall cadet and the “warrior” of the encampment at an intensive ROTC training camp this summer.
After spending 29 days at an intensive Air Force ROTC camp this summer, Boston University junior Michael Patrick Fazio walked away with the honor of “warrior” as a result of his dedication, knowledge and physical fitness.
From June 27 to July 26, Fazio, 20, withstood the required military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, TX as one of 703 Air Force cadets — including three other BU students — from all across the United States.
Fazio’s disciplined character was evident from the outset, said Colonel David A. DellaVolpe, professor of aerospace studies and commander of Detachment 355, who also served as commander of the Lackland camp.
“During the first physical fitness test, of the 350 cadets who ran that day, he was the only one who scored a perfect score,” DellaVolpe said.
As indications of Fazio’s physical abilities, his knowledge of the Air Force, and his leadership skills continued to emerge, Fazio’s field training officer took notice and named him the first “warrior” of the week, an honor only four cadets received during their time at the camp.
Throughout the four-week period, Fazio said he learned, among other things, how to work with a team, act under pressure, and use the available resources.
Fazio was also the only male cadet to have four perfect physical fitness tests, scoring the maximum possible score on all of them.
On July 24, after a performance review and an interview, Fazio was named the top overall cadet and the “warrior” of the encampment, for which he received a sword and a leather jacket.
“I attribute my success to the training of Detachment 355 and the Military Honor Society of Pershing Rifles,” Fazio said.
An aerospace engineer major, Fazio joined ROTC his freshman year to take advantage of the scholarship, but he soon found himself part of a close-knit group with common goals and beliefs.
“I really enjoy the people and the purpose of what we’re doing,” Fazio said. “Being in ROTC gives you the basic tools to perform in active duty.”
After graduation, Fazio plans to become a combat controller or navigator after he commits four years to the Air Force.
For now, he serves as the drill team commander and plays trumpet for the BU pep band.
“Michael epitomizes why we have marching band and pep band here,” said Chris Parks, director of BU Music Organizations. “He brings a tremendous amount of energy to the band.”
Fazio brings that energy and dedication to everything he does, said Jules Hirschkorn, a fellow Air Force ROTC cadet.
“[Fazio’s] one of my closest friends,” said Hirschkorn, 20. “He’s a great guy.”
Along with increasing Fazio’s personal reputation, DellaVolpe says the award also brings honor and recognition to BU.
“BU stands out as a major player in Air Force ROTC these days,” he added.
As for Fazio, he said he is “flattered and honored” to become top cadet, but insists he’s “not anything special.”
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