Norwich University’s Shock Platoon Inducted into National Military Drill Hall of Fame, Earns First-Ever World Title

Norwich University Regimental Drill Team, Shock Platoon, recently competed in the World Drill Competition in Daytona Beach, Florida, hosted by Sports Network International. This post-graduate drill competition brings competitors from the academies, senior military colleges, civilian, and active military personnel worldwide to compete.

During this competition, Shock Platoon claimed its first-ever World Title, capturing 1st Place in the Group Division. Cadets Alano, Edgeworth, Nguyen, Raker, Ojeda, and Vo represented Norwich University over three grueling competition days, bringing home the Shock Platoon’s first-ever World Title.

“This monumental achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the collective support and belief in our potential,” said team members in a statement following their victory. “We are proud to represent Norwich University on the world stage.”

Additionally, during this weekend, Shock Platoon was formally recognized in the National Military Drill Hall of Fame. This award honors the legacy of the Norwich University Regimental Drill Team. It celebrates decades of excellence in military drill, cementing Shock Platoon's legacy among the most elite units in the nation.

On-site event judges and Norwich alumni LtCol Blake Jackson ‘05 and Andrea Bryant ‘07 were also recognized for their continued contributions to the drill community.

CDT Franki Alano, Shock Platoon’s Commander, accepted the award on behalf of the team, expressing deep gratitude for the honor and emphasizing its significance to past, present, and future members. “This is for you,” the team shared in a message to its alumni, current and future members, and supporters. “You are forever enshrined in this recognition.”

From the OFFICIAL Drill Hall of Fame Website: 
“On the fourth of May 2025, the illustrious Shock Platoon from Norwich University was forever enshrined into the 2025 Class of the National Drill Hall of Fame. While this pantheon of drill has grown in stature since the humble beginnings in 1937 at the inception of Norwich University, they continue to gain national notoriety and accolades to exemplify what few others can match. Their consistent push for excellence both from the team as well as the team members sets them apart from every other post-high school drill unit. The artistry and power of military drill on display through your talents now approaching 100 years is a level of dedication few can match. Many of the names of those who have been a part of the Shock Platoon legacy are pillars within the greater drill community. This constant growth continues to bring great pride and notoriety to your school and your members, past, present & future. 

Your drill team and your entire university should be rightfully proud. It is with the greatest pride that the National Drill Hall of Fame recognizes and certifies the Shock Platoon from Norwich University in Northfield, Vermont has earned a hallowed place within this hall. 

While the team continues to dominate regionally and power to top finishes at well-respected National Meets, it is their longevity, strength and power of their past members that makes this team infinitely worthy of addition in the Hall. 
The DHOF is proud to immortalize the NORWICH UNIVERSITY REGIMENTAL DRILL TEAM - SHOCK PLATOON here through their enshrinement in the national Drill Hall of Fame.”

Founded in 1937, Shock Platoon has a strong dedication to excellence in performance, discipline, and military artistry.

The achievements of Shock Platoon stand as a powerful testament to the values of discipline, excellence, and teamwork that define Norwich University. With their induction into the National Military Drill Hall of Fame and a world championship to their name, Shock Platoon has honored its legacy—and made history.