Army ROTC Commander Promoted to Lieutenant Colonel

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Provided by Army ROTC Tiger Battalion

The RIT Army ROTC Tiger Battalion honored its leader, Edward Whitaker (left), as he was promoted to lieutenant colonel at a ceremony at the university. He was conferred the rank by Lt. Col. Michael Bianchi (right), a longtime friend and colleague. His wife, Michelle, and family, friends and cadets from the Tiger Battalion for the ceremony joined Whitaker.

Today, Rochester Institute of Technology honors its veterans who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. The university recently recognized a man who is preparing the next generation of young men and women who will serve as part of that tradition.

Army ROTC Battalion Commander Maj. Edward Whitaker was recently promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel at a ceremony at RIT on Oct. 27. Lt. Col. Michael Bianchi, professor of military science at St. Bonaventure University, presided over the event that included friends, family and RIT Army ROTC cadets.

“I would not have made it this far in my career if it wasn’t for the people that I have had the distinct pleasure of meeting throughout my years in the military. I just want to thank you all for your support,” Whitaker says. His wife, Michelle Whitaker, removed her husband’s previous rank insignia and replaced it with his new one, a silver oak leaf.

Originally from Randolph, N.J., Whitaker holds a bachelor’s degree from Norwich University and a master’s degree from the University of Maryland University College. His military education includes the Field Artillery Officer Basic and Advanced Courses, Combined Arms and Services Staff School, Joint Firepower Control Course, Information Operations Officer’s Course and the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Field Artillery Branch in 1995.

He has led the RIT Tiger Battalion as professor of military science and department chair since September 2011.