~alumni.westpointaog.org/firstcallapr82026
 
First Call - April 8, 2026
 
               
 
 

West Point Class of 2029 Crest Unveiled

Class of 2029 Crest Unveiling

Cadets from the Class of 2029 welcomed family and friends to West Point during Plebe-Parent Weekend, March 26–28, marking a key milestone in their first year. The weekend highlighted cadet development through tours, academic showcases, and the Plebe Review on the Apron. A centerpiece of the weekend was the unveiling of the Class of 2029 crest, featuring the motto “Hold the Line” symbolizing resilience, transformation, and commitment to Duty, Honor, Country. Supported by their 50-year affiliates from the Class of 1979, cadets celebrated their progress and connection to the Long Gray Line. Read more

West Point Cadets and Old Grads Unite to Remember Bataan

  Bataan Memorial Death March
   

The 37th Annual Bataan Memorial Death March was held at White Sands Missile Range, bringing together not only the Army community, but the West Point community. Both cadets and Old Grads paid tribute to the thousands of American and Filipino service members who defended the Bataan peninsula during World War II, and to those who endured the original Death March. Read more.

Army Baseball Captures Star with Win Over Navy 

  Army Baseball Captures Star with Win Over Navy
   

Army wins a tense 4–3 rubber match against Navy on March 29, securing the baseball star in the Army-Navy Star Series behind CDT Trey Ates ’26 standout performance and clutch hitting. Read more.

West Point Entrepreneurs: Silicon Valley Symposium

  West Point Entrepreneurs: Silicon Valley Symposium
   

Come join the West Point Entrepreneurs at Microsoft on May 5 at the Silicon Valley Symposium for a day of business networking and education focused on defense-tech and national security. Hear from our featured keynote speaker Adrian Perica ’94, Vice President of Corporate Development at Apple. Don’t miss your chance to pitch at the event! RSVP on the event website.

Stay in Touch with West Point

There’s so much great news around West Point that we can’t include it all in First Call. Grad News is all about the Long Gray Line, and USMA & Cadet News highlights the Corps and the Academy. You can also follow WPAOG on Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn. And don’t forget to listen/subscribe to our podcast.

 

Quick Links

•  Be Thou At Peace
•  Cadet News
•  Grad News
•  Find A Grad
•  Profile Update
•  Gift Shop
•  Order TAPS
•  Work at WPAOG

 

2026 WPAOG Election – Call for Nominations for Board and Advisory Council 

  Board Volunteer Video
   

In 2026, the WPAOG Nominating Committee will nominate graduates for five Director positions and six Advisor-at-Large positions. To apply for a nomination, please see the required application documentation posted on the WPAOG website. The deadline for graduates to submit their completed applications is July 1. The 2026 election process will conclude on November 17 at 5pm EST, at the Annual Meeting of the Association of Graduates at Herbert Alumni Center. Interested graduates may email Laurie.Fontana@wpaog.org or call 845.446.1523 for more information. 

Remember Their Service. Pre-Order TAPS 2026 

  Order 2026 TAPS
   

Honor the legacy of the Long Gray Line with TAPS 2026. This year’s publication preserves the stories of more than 293 graduates and former cadets from the Classes of 1933–2009—each reflecting a life of service, leadership, and commitment to Duty, Honor, Country. Pre-order your copy today for $25 (plus shipping) through the WPAOG Gift Shop. Orders ship in late August—reserve yours now to ensure these stories endure. Order TAPS online

How New Legislation Impacts Your Taxes This Year and Beyond

  The Hudson River
   

New legislation signed into law last year introduced sweeping changes to federal tax rules, many of which reshape how Americans file their income-tax returns. While most provisions take effect in 2026 and beyond, a few changes—and opportunities—apply for 2025 as well. And you can take advantage of them on the tax return you file by April 15, 2026. Read more.

Built for the Moment

    WPAOG Gift Shop
     

Mark 50 years of leadership, service, and lasting impact, with our Vineyard Vines ladies’ tee celebrating the women who have helped define West Point. Designed in partnership with one of the most recognized lifestyle brands, this piece reflects strength and LeadHerShip—a fun tribute to the generations who continue to inspire and lead. Available now at the WPAOG Gift Shop. Order online 24/7 at WPAOGGiftShop.com or call the store to reserve yours now at 800.426.4725.


Long Gray Line Sponsorship
 
General Douglas MacArthur Foundation

USAA

APi Group
 
Chelsea Clock