Wilmington native is Pennsylvania ROTC commander

PITTSBURGH -- Patrick Channell will lead nearly 250 cadets from 13 universities across southwestern Pennsylvania as the first Duquesne University student selected to serve as battalion commander for the Three Rivers Battalion Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corp (ROTC).

Channell, who will be a senior in the fall, will be responsible for setting staff priorities, providing the mission and intent necessary to train the underclass cadets, and making decisions that implement training procedures. He will lead cadets from regional universities, including the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University, and Washington and Jefferson College.

He was selected by a panel of cadre members based on his performance in various leadership positions; tactical scenarios; physical readiness training; community service; and evaluations from his peers.

“Patrick is among the best in that group and has proven capable of gaining consensus and directing their collective efforts. We are excited for the new school year to begin and to continue to produce some of the finest young leaders in the nation,” said James Henderson, University of Pittsburgh senior military science instructor. “I expect Patrick to rise to the challenge and provide excellent leadership in the model of his predecessors.”

Hailing from a military family, Channell joined the ROTC with the intention of someday becoming a part of the U.S. Army Active-Duty Infantry.

“Being named battalion commander is a tremendous honor. It’s a privilege to be able to lead a group of individuals who are highly motivated and willing to serve our nation,” said Channell, an international relations major and native of Wilmington. “I’m looking forward to growing as a leader through this opportunity.”