In a powerful display of honor, tradition, and service, **157 cadets from the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets** took the **Oath of Office** during this afternoon’s commencement ceremony, officially commissioning into the United States Armed Forces. The moment, steeped in history and pride, marked not only the culmination of years of rigorous training and academic achievement but also the beginning of a lifelong commitment to defending the nation.
Held at Reed Arena, the ceremony was a stirring reminder of Texas A&M’s deep-rooted legacy as one of the nation’s premier institutions for military leadership. As the cadets stood tall in uniform, surrounded by family, friends, and fellow Aggies, the atmosphere was electric with emotion and reverence. Each oath spoken was more than a formality—it was a pledge of courage, integrity, and selfless service.
The commissioning of these cadets into branches including the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Space Force reflects the university’s continued role as a vital pipeline for the U.S. military. Texas A&M consistently ranks among the top producers of military officers outside of the service academies, a testament to the strength of its Corps of Cadets and the values it instills.
Brigadier General (Ret.) Patrick R. Michaelis, Commandant of the Corps, administered the oath and addressed the cadets with words that resonated deeply: “Just as countless Aggies who have gone before them, these young men and women will step forward and swear to support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America. Commissioning new officers into our military is a tradition that is as old as the Corps and Texas A&M.”
The cadets commissioned today represent a diverse and dynamic group of leaders. They’ve endured early morning drills, demanding academic schedules, and the physical and mental challenges of military training—all while upholding the Aggie core values of **excellence, integrity, leadership, loyalty, respect, and selfless service**. Their journey has forged not only capable officers but individuals of character and conviction.
For many, this moment was the realization of a lifelong dream. For others, it was a calling discovered through their time in the Corps. Regardless of how they arrived at this point, each cadet now carries the weight and honor of leadership in the world’s most respected armed forces.
As the ceremony concluded and the newly minted second lieutenants and ensigns embraced their loved ones, the pride was palpable. These young leaders are stepping into a world of uncertainty and challenge—but they do so with the strength of their training, the support of their Aggie family, and the unshakable resolve to serve.
Today’s commissioning wasn’t just a milestone for the cadets—it was a moment of national significance. It reminded us all that the future of our military is in capable hands, and that the spirit of service continues to thrive in the heart of Aggieland. Congratulations to the newest officers of the United States Armed Forces. Your country salutes you. Cadets and the values it instills.
Brigadier General (Ret.) Patrick R. Michaelis, Commandant of the Corps, administered the oath and addressed the cadets with words that resonated deeply: “Just as countless Aggies who have gone before them, these young men and women will step forward and swear to support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America. Commissioning new officers into our military is a tradition that is as old as the Corps and Texas A&M.”
The cadets commissioned today represent a diverse and dynamic group of leaders. They’ve endured early morning drills, demanding academic schedules, and the physical and mental challenges of military training—all while upholding the Aggie core values of **excellence, integrity, leadership, loyalty, respect, and selfless service**. Their journey has forged not only capable officers but individuals of character and conviction.
For many, this moment was the realization of a lifelong dream. For others, it was a calling discovered through their time in the Corps. Regardless of how they arrived at this point, each cadet now carries the weight and honor of leadership in the world’s most respected armed forces.
As the ceremony concluded and the newly minted second lieutenants and ensigns embraced their loved ones, the pride was palpable. These young leaders are stepping into a world of uncertainty and challenge—but they do so with the strength of their training, the support of their Aggie family, and the unshakable resolve to serve.
Today’s commissioning wasn’t just a milestone for the cadets—it was a moment of national significance. It reminded us all that the future of our military is in capable hands, and that the spirit of service continues to thrive in the heart of Aggieland. Congratulations to the newest officers of the United States Armed Forces. Your country salutes you.
