News
Pirrello Awaits Military Decision
By: WOUB Staff Writer
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A decision is expected sometime this spring on whether a disabled Ohio University ROTC cadet will be able to serve in the United States Air Force.
Matt Pirrello lost his leg 18 months ago in a training accident and now serves as an amputee cadet.
An injury that could prevent him from being able to be an Air Force pilot.
But, this week, Pirello and Lieutenant Colonel Alejandro Cantu filed what is called Exception to Policy paperwork that, if approved, will allow Pirrello to complete the ROTC program and earn an Air Force Commission.
Cantu says the paper work is filed for individuals who are medically disabled but are truly outstanding and want to serve anyway.
And he says Pirrello is just that.
"He's been very,very driven for that he's been an example for everybody. A lot of the cadets and I have learned a lot from him on how to stay motivated and be driven," says Cantu.
The paperwork now heads through the military chain of command and Pirrello must wait for a decision.