Commandant Announces Regimental Commander for AY 2025-26

C/1SG Ober hails from Kennett Square, PA, and is a Norwich legacy student majoring in environmental science, with minors in geology and leadership and a concentration in scientific foundations. He is the first sergeant for Charlie Company, an upper-class company in 1st Battalion. C/1SG Ober has served various roles as a second-year cadet in Bravo Company, a cadet training company in 1st Battalion, as the guidon bearer, public affairs officer, supply clerk, runner, and assistant cadre member.

In addition to his responsibilities in the Corps, C/1SG Ober is the president of the Norwich Bodybuilding Association, a senator in the Student Government Association, a participant in the Army ROTC Ranger Challenge, and an academic tutor. He aims to receive a commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army in May 2026, with aspirations to become an Army aviator.

His honors and achievements include being on the President's List for academic excellence, ROTC Scholarship recipient, U.S. Army Air Assault qualification, American Legion Military Excellence Award recipient, and earning Lifeguard and Basic Life Saving Certifications.

Before enrolling at Norwich, C/1SG Ober worked as a certified lifeguard for the YMCA of Greater Brandywine in Kennett Square, PA, and completed a summer internship at the Brandywine Red Clay Alliance in West Chester, PA.

BG McCollough expressed, "I am particularly impressed with Matthew's enthusiasm and vision to lead the Corps in fulfilling its promise to cultivate the citizens and soldiers our country needs and deserves. His vision aligns with Captain Partridge's intent in founding our university, and next year's cadets will again be led by a capable and selfless leader who embodies our Guiding Values."

In his application letter, Matthew expressed, "I am particularly drawn to the Corps' commitment to excellence and holistic student development. I am excited about the prospect of contributing to the growth of the Corps and nurturing the next generation of citizen-soldiers."

Eighteen candidates presented themselves before a Regimental Commander Promotion Board, which included the Commandant's Staff, the current Regimental Commander, and her Command Team. The Board narrowed the candidates down to four, who then met with the Deputy Commandant and the Dean of Students, followed by a meeting with the Commandant for final selection.

The formal promotion ceremony for next year's cadet officers and noncommissioned officers will occur during a Corps of Cadets Review with a Change of Command Ceremony on April 18 on the Upper Parade Ground. The Cadet Public Affairs Office will livestream the event via the Norwich Families Facebook page.

For more information, please contact the Office of the Commandant at 485-2135 or commandant@norwich.edu.