On Veterans Day, 2013, we were pleased to rededicate Buell Armory in memory of Colonel Lawrence A. Floro, Jr. This rededication marked the official end of phase two of the Buell Armory and Barker Hall renovation project we started in 2011. The project began with a vision to bring the Armory on par with the rest of the buildings on campus and provide a learning and training environment conducive for proper Cadet development. Senior leaders in the university and an extensive community of generous alumni and supporters of the program believed in our vision. Together, they teamed to contribute more than $500,000 for the renovation. With that money we were able to recreate a professional space that welcomes Cadets, athletes, faculty, and prospective students into an environment that fosters intellectual growth and excellence. Words cannot express how grateful we are to all who supported our vision and contributed to the betterment of our program.
But we are not done. Under the leadership of President Eli Capilouto, the University of Kentucky continues to build new facilities that support educational excellence. As a result, outdated buildings are coming down and new ones are going up. To continue our own vision and support that of Dr. Capilouto, we are pushing forward in an endeavor that will move our current supply facility from an outdated and distant location to the basement of Barker Hall. Cadets from both the Army and Air Force ROTC programs will benefit greatly from this move as will athletes on the University of Kentucky Rifle Team and students and faculty in the school of dance. As before, budget constraints will make it difficult to fund the project, but I am confident we can accomplish this important project with the support of those who value ROTC’s role in developing leader and academic excellence.
We are actively working with university officials to complete the phase three blueprint and cost estimate and project timeline. Though we have not yet seen the cost estimate, we believe it could exceed $200,000. Meanwhile, our supporters are still contributing to the Buell Armory and Barker Hall Renovation Fund. Between November and December 2013 alone we raised more than $7000. If you are interested in supporting the project, please donate online at the link below. Thank you for all you have given and plan to give. Your generosity will ensure the continued success of developing and commissioning future leaders of character for the Military and the great state of Kentucky. Please check this site regularly for updates. GO CATS!
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For check donations, please make payable to the Buell Armory Renovation