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First Call - July 8, 2026
 
               
 
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Graduates Virtually Toast to 50 Years of Women at West Point 

West Point Women

West Point graduates from across the Long Gray Line gathered virtually to celebrate an unforgettable evening honoring the women whose courage and determination transformed the U.S. Military Academy forever. Hosted by Donna Brazil ’83, the event brought together generations of graduates to recognize the pioneering women of the Class of 1980, reflect on five decades of leadership and service, and celebrate the lasting impact of West Point women on the Academy, the Army, and the nation. Read more.

The Class of 1980 Welcomes the Class of 2030 on R-Day

  The Class of 1980 Welcomes the Class of 2030 on R-Day
   

On June 29, the 50-Year Affiliate Class of 1980 returned to West Point to welcome the incoming Class of 2030 and their families for R-Day. From the early morning arrivals at Eisenhower Hall to the Oath Ceremony on the Plain, the “Pride and Excellence” Class of ’80 offered heartfelt support to the newest members of the Long Gray Line. More than 30 graduates of the Class of 1980 shared smiles and handshakes with cadet candidates throughout the day, as well as water, tissues, and encouragement with parents for emotional 60-second goodbyes. Read more.

BG Katz ’99 Takes Command as Commandant of Cadets

  BG Katz ’99 Takes Command as Commandant of Cadets
   

Brigadier General Joseph Katz ’99 assumed command as the 82nd Commandant of Cadets at the U.S. Military Academy during a change of command ceremony on June 25. The ceremony marked the transition of leadership from the 81st Commandant, BG R.J. Garcia ’96, to Katz. Katz graduated from West Point in 1999 with a Bachelor of Science and also holds a Master of Public Administration from Columbia University, and a Master of Science in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College. Read more.

Register for the West Point Golf Invitational

  West Point Golf Invitational
   

Join the Long Gray Line for our annual West Point Golf Invitational at the West Point Golf Course and brand-new clubhouse! All registrations include a full round of golf, West Point merchandise, breakfast, lunch on the green, post-tournament reception food and drinks, and most importantly, connections within the Long Gray Line. Meet and greet with alumni pro golfers in attendance, including PGA Pro Marcus Plunkett ’16. Register by August 3. See all event details on our website.

Class of 2029 Receives Class Flag During CFT II Graduation  

  West Point Class of 2029 Receives Class Flag During CFT II Graduation
   

The Class of 2029 graduated from Cadet Field Training II and received their Class Flag on June 24, marking another milestone in their West Point journey. Members of their 50-Year Affiliate Class of 1979 attended the ceremony and presented the class with their Class Flag. After the ceremony, 50-Year Affiliates gripped hands with members of the yearling class as they socialized and exchanged stories. Read more.

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.

 

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Pre-Order TAPS 2026

  Pre-Order TAPS 2026
   

TAPS 2026 is now available for pre-order through the WPAOG Gift Shop. This year’s edition includes 292 memorial articles honoring West Point graduates and former cadets from classes as early as 1933 and as recent as 2009. Each story helps preserve the service, leadership, and legacy of members of the Long Gray Line. Copies are $25, plus shipping, and are expected to ship in late August. Pre-order your copy today and help keep these stories of remembrance alive for generations to come. Order TAPS online

There’s Still Time to Take the WPAOG Graduate Survey 

  Take the Survey
   

If you have not yet completed the WPAOG Graduate Survey, there is still time to share your feedback. Your perspective is important and will help guide how WPAOG continues to serve, communicate with, and strengthen connections across the Long Gray Line.

The survey invitation was sent from adminsurvey@wpaog.org via SurveyMonkey member@surveymonkeyuser.com. Please check your inbox, and if needed, your spam or junk folder. We appreciate your time and look forward to hearing from you. If you haven't seen the invite, please email wpaog-correspndence@wpaog.org.

The San Diego SACC is Just Around the Corner

  San Diego SACC
   

Join grads on August 6-7 to network with peers, connect with recruiters from more than 60 leading employers, and explore new career opportunities at the San Diego SACC. Maximize your experience by attending our SACC-Prep webinar on July 29, where our Career Services Assistant Director will share tips for making a strong impression with employers. Then kick off the conference in San Diego at the Career Services Social on August 5 at Kansas City Barbeque — a great opportunity to reconnect with fellow graduates before the conference begins. Visit the career events page for complete details.

West Point Entrepreneur Summit Returns to New York City

    West Point Entrepreneur Summit - New York
     

The annual West Point Entrepreneur Summit returns to New York City, bringing together graduates, entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders for a week of learning, collaboration, and networking. Centered on this year's theme, "Forged in Tradition, Innovating the Future," the program features sessions at both West Point and in New York City covering timely topics including AI, FinTech, Defense Tech, Business Leadership, Small Business Acquisition (SBA), Wealth Management, and more. Attendees will also have opportunities to connect with veteran entrepreneurs and investors throughout NYC. Register today to secure your spot and be part of the conversations shaping the future of business and innovation.

Did You Know? We Do More Than Reunions

    WPAOG Gift Shop
     

Twenty-two adventurous women from the Class of 1990 recently completed 80 miles of the Camino de Santiago in just six days. No blisters. No quit. Just good friends, unforgettable memories, and some pretty great WPAOG custom gear. (We're giving the Army training most of the credit — at least for the rucking part.) Planning a golf getaway, mini reunion, your own class bucket-list adventure, or is it just time for new swag? We specialize in creating custom apparel for groups both large and small. If you can dream the trip, we'll help outfit the team. Contact us to discuss your options — 800.426.4725 or giftshop@wpaog.org and start looking for ideas at WPAOGGiftShop.com.


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