Message from the PMS

Dear Future Cadets, Alumni, Family and Friends,
It is my pleasure to introduce myself as the Professor of Military Science (ROTC) at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. My name is Lieutenant Colonel Howard E. Falls Jr., and I am a proud 20-year Army veteran with a diverse background in leadership, education, and strategic operations.
Throughout my military career, I have served our nation in command and staff positions, including two deployments to Afghanistan, three operational deployments to the Republic of Korea, and assignments across the continental United States. My experiences have included battery command, service as Secretary of the General Staff for a Field Army, and work as a military advisor at the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C. Before joining UTRGV, I served as an instructor at Air University at Maxwell Air Force Base. Most recently, I was Aide-de-Camp to the Commanding General of Allied Land Command in İzmir, Türkiye, supporting NATO land-component operations and initiatives.
I am a graduate of Prairie View A&M University, Webster University, and the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. My passion is developing future leaders and helping students cultivate the character, discipline, and leadership skills needed to succeed in military and civilian careers. Beyond my professional life, I am blessed to share this journey with my wife, Carmen Terrell Falls, a native of DeSoto, Texas. Together, we are the proud parents of four sons: Kennedy, Karter, Howard “HB,” and Hudsyn.
We remain committed to building a culture where leaders are forged through challenge, service, and mentorship. Our curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and adaptability. From classroom discussions to field exercises, every experience helps cadets grow into principled leaders of character. We are especially grateful for the continued support of alumni, partners, and friends. Your engagement—through mentorship, scholarship support, speaking with cadets, or attending events—strengthens the ROTC program and reinforces the legacy of service that defines us.
I look forward to collaborating with you, faculty, and staff across the university and contributing to the continued success of our students and institution. Please reach out and stay connected. I am excited to be part of the UTRGV community.
Respectfully, Lieutenant Colonel Howard E. Falls Jr. Professor of Military Science (ROTC) The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley