Why does ODU have such a strong military community?
Old Dominion University's connection to the military runs deep — and it is no coincidence. Norfolk, Virginia, home of ODU's main campus, is also home to Naval Station Norfolk, the largest naval installation in the world. The Hampton Roads metropolitan area is one of the most military-dense regions in the United States, with tens of thousands of active duty service members, veterans, military families, and defense contractors calling the area home. ODU has built its programs, services, and culture around serving this community exceptionally well.
What military programs does ODU offer?
Old Dominion University offers a robust set of programs and services for military-affiliated students and community members. These include an Army ROTC program that commissions officers for the United States Army, a Navy ROTC program producing officers for the Navy and Marine Corps, the ODU Military Connection Center which serves as a hub for veteran and military student support, dedicated veteran services and support programs, and specialized academic pathways for military students including tuition assistance and credit for military training and experience.
What is the ODU Military Connection Center?
The ODU Military Connection Center is Old Dominion University's central resource for military-connected students, veterans, and their families. The center provides academic advising, benefits assistance, peer mentoring, and a community space specifically designed for the unique needs of military students. ODU is consistently recognized as a military-friendly institution, appearing on lists of top universities for veterans and military families.
What is the ODU Cannon Crew?
The ODU Cannon Crew is one of the most beloved traditions in Old Dominion University athletics. The Cannon Crew fires ODU's cannon at Kornblau Field whenever the Monarchs score, creating one of the most exciting and distinctive game day moments in the Sun Belt Conference. Membership in the Cannon Crew is a point of pride for ODU students and military community members who participate in this tradition. Blue and Silver Gear carries official Cannon Crew merchandise for members and supporters.
What is the ODU Push-Up Squad?
The ODU Push-Up Squad is another celebrated Monarchs athletic tradition where squad members perform push-ups equal to ODU's total cumulative score during football games. It is a physical display of Monarchs pride and dedication that gets louder and more impressive as the score climbs. The Push-Up Squad has become a signature part of the ODU game day experience and a point of pride for the Monarchs community.
Where can I find ODU military merchandise?
Blue and Silver Gear carries a dedicated ODU Military Collection with licensed apparel and gifts for ODU veterans, ROTC members, Cannon Crew members, Push-Up Squad members, and military-connected community members. Shop the full ODU Military Collection at blueandsilvergear.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ODU a good school for veterans?
Yes. Old Dominion University is consistently rated as one of the top universities in Virginia — and nationally — for veteran students. ODU's location in Norfolk, its Military Connection Center, its ROTC programs, and its commitment to military-connected students make it an excellent choice for veterans seeking a high-quality university education.
Does ODU have Navy ROTC?
Yes. Old Dominion University has a Navy ROTC program that produces commissioned officers for the United States Navy and Marine Corps. Given ODU's location near Naval Station Norfolk, the Navy ROTC program at ODU has a deep connection to the active duty naval community in Hampton Roads.
Does ODU have Army ROTC?
Yes. Old Dominion University has an Army ROTC program that commissions officers for the United States Army. The program prepares ODU students for military leadership and service while earning their degree.
Where can I buy ODU military and ROTC merchandise?
Blue and Silver Gear at blueandsilvergear.com carries official licensed ODU military merchandise including collections for veterans, Army ROTC, Navy ROTC, the Cannon Crew, the Push-Up Squad, and the Military Connection Center. Honor your ODU military connection with official blue and silver gear.