The Class of 2027 marked its transition into firstie year during Ring Weekend, receiving class rings containing Legacy Gold from 1,035 donated rings. Members of the 50-Year Affiliation Class of 1977 joined the celebration, gripping hands across generations and continuing a tradition that connects the Long Gray Line.

Watch the recap. View photos. 

LTG James B. Bartholomees III ’95 officially became West Point’s 62nd Superintendent during a change of command ceremony on August 17. A combat-tested leader and former commanding general of the 25th Infantry Division and U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii, Bartholomees brings extensive experience to his new role overseeing the Academy and the development of the Corps of Cadets. He succeeds LTG Steven W. Gilland ’90, who retired after 36 years of Army service.

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Thank you to LTG (R) Steve and Betsy Gilland for their years of service. LTG (R) Gilland’s tenure as the 61st Superintendent of the United States Military Academy was defined by character, dedication, and a deep commitment to West Point. We are grateful for their leadership and service to our nation.

Read LTG (R) Gilland's farewell message.

On August 16, the Class of 2028 affirmed their commitment to service and took the Oath of Affirmation. LTG (R) Thomas Bostick ’78 was the guest speaker for the evening. The 50-Year Affiliation Class of 1978 proudly presented each member of the "No Calling Too Great" class with a coin to commemorate the milestone.

View photos. Watch ceremony.  

West Point has announced the Class of 2027 cadets selected to lead the Corps of Cadets during the academic year. Among the selected brigade leaders is CDT Elizabeth Fetter ’27 of Palo Alto, California, who will serve as First Captain and Brigade Commander. Cadet leaders were selected for demonstrating excellence in academics, military training, physical performance, character, and leadership. They assumed their new responsibilities August 14, before the start of the fall academic session. 

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Acceptance Day was another proud and memorable moment for the “Strong & Sturdy” Class of 2030 and their families. After six demanding weeks of Cadet Basic Training, approximately 1,200 new cadets officially joined their companies alongside the upper classes. Led by First Captain Elizabeth Fetter ’27, the parade celebrated an important milestone in the class’s 47-month West Point journey.

Watch video.

Congratulations to the newest West Point graduates! On August 7, four cadets graduated from their Rockbound Highland Home during a ceremony in Crest Hall. Representing as the 50-Year Affiliate Mr. Archie Eichelberg-Elam ’76 proudly gripped hands with these new 2LTs, gifting them engraved "76-26" butter bars to commemorate their accomplishment.

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Mark Clouse ’90, president of the Washington Commanders, will keynote the 2026 West Point Entrepreneur Summit, September 14–16 in New York City. A West Point graduate, Army veteran, former helicopter pilot, and accomplished Fortune 500 CEO, Clouse will share insights on leadership, innovation, and building high-performing organizations. Connect with fellow graduates, service academy alumni, veteran entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders.  

Learn more and register.

On September 8, AOG invites the Long Gray Line to take part in From the Darkness to the Light with a sunrise walk, hike, run, or moment of reflection recognizing 988 and suicide prevention awareness. Wherever you are, begin in darkness and end in the light, reminding others: You Are Not Alone. Share your photos or videos by tagging AOG and local community members are invited to join us at Herbert Hall. Find support resources or call/text 988, then press 1.

Your Association is the enduring link across the Long Gray Line, sustaining traditions through reunions, the West Point Survivor Community, Veterans Services, West Point Magazine, the Ring Memorial Program, Rockbound Highland Home tours, Career Services, regional events, and more. The Long Gray Line Fund sustains these cornerstone programs, celebrating milestones, honoring service, and strengthening our lifelong bond. A gift of $1,000 places you in the Chairman’s Circle. Give back to help sustain the world-class programs that serve the Long Gray Line for generations to come.

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Join WPAOG Career Services for the Virtual Career Fair on September 24, from 12-3pm. This free, online event gives grads the opportunity to connect with employers across defense and national security, financial services, consulting, technology, energy, higher education, and other industries seeking military-experienced talent. See the employer lineup & register.

West Point class and society leaders joined parent club representatives at WPAOG’s 2026 Leaders Conference to exchange ideas and strengthen connections across the West Point community. Through Academy updates and discussions on leadership, trust, and the Margin of Excellence, attendees explored how graduates can support cadets, fellow alumni, and West Point’s mission. Their continued involvement helps ensure the Long Gray Line remains a strong and enduring network for generations to come. 

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Make Army West Point Football weekends even more memorable by connecting with graduates and fans throughout the season. For home games, join the Huddle Up & HOOAH! Tailgate Party at Herbert Alumni Center, beginning four hours before kickoff, with food, games, and fun for all ages. Traveling with the Black Knights? Look for spirit events at select away games, too. All Army fans are welcome—bring the family and get ready to cheer! 

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Bear art is having a moment—and our Cadet Bear has officially joined the troop. Dressed for West Point and ready for cooler weather, these new sweaters put an Army spin on one of the season’s most popular looks. They’re fun, distinctive and just the right mix of vintage and playful. The sweaters are available in black and gray, with youth sizes in gray—perfect for West Point fans big and small. You'll want to bear it all winter! Shop the Cadet Bear Sweaters while they last 24/7 at WPAOGGiftShop.com or give us a call at 800.426.4725.