This collection documents the history and activities of the Military Science Department and Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) at South Dakota State University (SDSU), with materials spanning the late 19th century through the early 21st century. It is arranged into three series: Departmental Records, ROTC Records, and Military Organization Scrapbooks.
The Departmental Records contain materials related to military instruction at SDSU that are not specific to ROTC. These include clippings, correspondence, programs, catalogs, and artifacts, such as cadet hats dating from the 1880s and 1920s, and dance cards from early 20th-century military balls. Notable items include clippings on General Omar Bradley and registers of U.S. Military Academy graduates from 1802 to 1978.
The ROTC Records comprise extensive documentation of both Army and Air Force ROTC programs. Materials include newsletters, photographs, event programs, posters, certificates, enrollment data, and memorabilia. Topics covered include military balls, commissioning ceremonies, field training, recruitment, and alumni recognition. Highlights include a 48-star U.S. flag used by the ROTC color guard prior to 1958 and photographs of field exercises at South Dakota training sites.
The Military Organization Scrapbooks feature chronologically arranged scrapbooks created by the Pershing Rifles, Company K, 2nd Regiment, and their sister unit, the Pershingettes, Company K-2, dating from 1964 to 1978. These include photographs, news clippings, and organizational commentary.
The collection documents the evolution of military education at SDSU, the transition to formalized ROTC training following the National Defense Act of 1916, and the continuing presence of ROTC on campus. It reflects both institutional history and the personal experiences of cadets and alumni, including notable figures such as General Omar Bradley and Brigadier General Keith W. Corbett.