During this afternoon’s commencement ceremony, 157 cadets took the Oath of Office and commissioned into the United States Armed Forces. Thank you for your willingness to protect and serve our country! Texas A&M Corps of Cadets
This afternoon marked a pivotal moment in the lives of 157 young men and women, as they raised their right hands, took the Oath of Office, and officially commissioned into the United States Armed Forces. In a time-honored tradition at Texas A&M University, the Corps of Cadets proudly sent forth its next generation of military leaders in a moving commencement ceremony filled with pride, patriotism, and purpose.
The commissioning ceremony, held on the Texas A&M campus, stood as a powerful testament to the values of leadership, service, and commitment instilled by the Corps of Cadets. As friends, family, faculty, and fellow students looked on, these newly minted officers pledged to support and defend the Constitution of the United States — a solemn vow that reflects the depth of their responsibility and the significance of their choice.
For Texas A&M, a university steeped in military tradition since its founding in 1876, the Corps of Cadets represents the heart of its mission to develop leaders of character. Today’s ceremony is not only a milestone for each individual cadet but also a continuation of a legacy that spans nearly 150 years. With the commissioning of this newest cohort, the university reaffirms its enduring role in preparing young people to serve with honor, integrity, and distinction.
The day began with formal honors and the presentation of the national colors, followed by a heartfelt invocation. The cadets, dressed in full military dress uniform, took their places with discipline and dignity, their faces reflecting both the weight of their responsibility and the pride of accomplishment. The audience, a blend of emotional parents, proud siblings, and admiring peers, sat in rapt attention as each branch of the Armed Forces was represented — the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Space Force — a testament to the diverse callings within the nation’s defense.
Texas A&M President Mark A. Welsh III, a retired four-star general and former Chief of Staff of the United States Air Force, offered remarks that struck a personal and inspiring chord. Drawing on his own military experience, President Welsh reminded the cadets that the journey ahead would be as challenging as it is rewarding. “Today, you take your place among the guardians of our freedom,” he said. “You inherit a legacy of service, and you will help shape its future. Lead with courage. Serve with humility. And never forget who you are and where you come from.”
Several cadets received their first salutes from mentors and enlisted personnel, a poignant tradition that symbolizes respect and mutual trust between officer and enlisted ranks. In many cases, this first salute was returned by a family member — a father, mother, or sibling — who had served before them. These moments served as living links between generations of service, highlighting the deeply personal nature of military life and the unbreakable bonds of duty and family.
Each cadet’s journey to commissioning is marked by years of rigorous academic training, physical preparation, and ethical development. For many, their time in the Corps of Cadets has been as transformative as it has been demanding.
Participation in the Corps is voluntary at Texas A&M, yet those who choose this path commit to a lifestyle governed by discipline, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence. Beyond morning drills and leadership labs, cadets undergo extensive officer development through Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) programs, balancing a full academic load with the requirements of military readiness.
The Corps is unique in its approach, blending military structure with a collegiate environment. This combination allows cadets to cultivate a well-rounded foundation — intellectually, morally, and physically. As a result, Texas A&M consistently ranks among the top universities in the nation for commissioning officers into the U.S. military.
Brigadier General Patrick R. Michaelis, Commandant of the Corps of Cadets and a Texas A&M alumnus, spoke proudly of the Class of 2025. “These cadets have answered a calling higher than themselves,” he said. “They have endured late nights, early mornings, and the relentless pursuit of excellence — all to earn the honor of standing here today. I have no doubt they will lead with strength, integrity, and compassion.”
Among those commissioned were future pilots, engineers, medical officers, cybersecurity specialists, infantry leaders, and space operations officers. This diversity reflects the evolving nature of modern military service, where technological expertise, cultural awareness, and adaptive leadership are as essential as traditional combat readiness.
One standout cadet, Sydney Martinez, commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force, shared her story after the ceremony. A mechanical engineering major and member of Squadron 16, Martinez overcame personal adversity and academic challenges to reach this point. “This moment means everything,” she said. “Being part of the Corps taught me resilience, leadership, and the importance of serving something greater than myself. I’m ready to step up and lead.”
Another graduate, Zachary Thomas, commissioned into the U.S. Army’s infantry branch, spoke of the bond among cadets. “We pushed each other, held each other accountable, and never let anyone fall behind,” he said. “That camaraderie is what makes the Corps special — and it’s what will make us stronger leaders in the field.”
This year’s commissioning class also included cadets entering into the relatively new U.S. Space Force. As the nation’s newest military branch, the Space Force is focused on protecting the nation’s interests in space — a critical frontier in 21st-century defense. Cadet Joshua Lin, who will serve as a space operations officer, sees the opportunity as groundbreaking. “This is an incredible time to be part of something new,” Lin said. “I feel like I’m helping write the future of our defense strategy.”
Though the ceremony focused on the formal commissioning of officers, it also served as a broader symbol of service. The willingness to serve — and to place the nation’s needs above one’s own — lies at the heart of what makes the Corps of Cadets and Texas A&M’s military tradition so enduring.
Family members in attendance spoke movingly of the pride they felt. “My daughter knew from the first day at A&M that she wanted to lead,” said Maria Gonzales, whose daughter commissioned into the Navy. “She’s become strong, focused, and fearless. As a parent, I couldn’t be prouder — or more thankful.”
The ceremony also acknowledged the sacrifice of military families, whose support and resilience form the foundation for every servicemember’s success. Without their encouragement and steadfast love, the cadets’ journeys would not have been possible.
Texas A&M’s Office of the Commandant emphasized the university’s commitment to supporting its cadets during and beyond their time in College Station. From mentorship programs to veteran resources, the university ensures that those who serve are never alone in their journey.
As the final words of the commissioning oath echoed across the ceremony hall, a sense of profound purpose filled the air. The newly commissioned officers stood a little taller, knowing that their futures would be defined not just by ambition, but by duty. With each step forward, they carry the values of Texas A&M — selfless service, loyalty, excellence, and respect — into every corner of the world.
These cadets will soon disperse across the globe — from bases in Europe and Asia to posts within the continental United States. Some will train as fighter pilots, others will command troops, lead cyber defense teams, or support humanitarian missions. Wherever they go, they will represent not just the Armed Forces, but also the enduring spirit of Texas A&M University.
General Welsh concluded the ceremony with words that will remain etched in the hearts of the cadets: “Lead with honor. Serve with pride. And know that wherever you go, you carry with you the spirit of Aggieland.”
As the Corps of Cadets Class of 2025 marches into a future filled with promise and challenge, the Texas A&M community — and indeed, the entire nation — pauses to say: Thank you for your willingness to protect and serve. We are proud of you. We believe in you. And we stand behind you, always.
