On October 22, WPAOG presented the 15th annual Alexander Nininger Award for Valor at Arms to MAJ John A. Meyer ’05. Since 2006, this award has recognized an exemplar of heroic action in battle. In addition to recognizing the recipient for his or her bravery as an individual, the Association regards the recipient as a given year´s representative of all West Point-commissioned officers who have heroically led Soldiers in combat. In his address to the Corps of Cadets, Meyer highlighted selfless leadership, humility, and passion. Full Story. Video of Ceremony.

On October 1, WPAOG presented the 2020 Sylvanus Thayer Award to Ambassador Ryan C. Crocker, a six-time U.S. ambassador with more than four decades of experience in the U.S. Foreign Service. In his remarks prior to bestowing the award upon Ambassador Crocker, WPAOG Chairman LTG(R) Joe DeFrancisco ’65, said “His leadership, love of country, and untiring efforts to make our nation better and stronger are lessons all Americans can admire.” Full story. Video of Thayer Award Review. Video of Acceptance Speech. USMA Photos.

The Fall 2020 issue of West Point magazine is in the mail, and the digital edition is available now to read online! This issue highlights the agility and resiliency of the USCC, exploring how Cadet Summer Training moved forward in 2020 with changes to adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic. See how the Plebe Class of 2024 joined the Corps with new safeguards in place, from R-Day through Cadet Basic Training, March Back, and A-Day. This issue also features the Legacy of Army West Point Athletics with an interview with Athletic Director Mike Buddie, profiles of West Point Olympians, and memories of some of the greatest Army-Navy football games of all time. Plus, learn about the athletic achievements and legacies of the fallen graduates behind the names of Army West Point Athletic facilities, and get a preview of the new Anderson Athletic Center.

West Point held its annual Ring Ceremony for the Class of 2021 on October 2 at Trophy Point, where more than 1,000 Firsties received their West Point Class rings. At the Ring Banquet the following evening, guest speaker General Richard D. Clarke ’84, who currently serves as the 12th Commander of U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), reminded the cadets of the responsibility of the West Point Class Ring in a moving speech, “Regardless of value, your rings are much more than a piece of jewelry. It is a connection to the Corps and to the Long Gray Line.” Full story. Video of Ring Ceremony. Photos. Video of USMA 2021 Ring Banquet.

On September 30, the WPAOG Class Services team hosted its annual outreach event for the Class Officers from the Classes of 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024. At the breakfast, cadets had the opportunity to meet with WPAOG staff and others from the Academy with whom they will work in the future. Following the breakfast, breakout sessions were held for each of the different classes to allow class officers to engage in discussions of how WPAOG serves them and their classmates now and in the decades ahead. The cadets provided valuable feedback and insight into their experiences and we are thankful for their time and participation. Full story.

The Secretary of Defense Honorable Mark Esper ’86, visited USMA to discuss current affairs with Russia, China, and U.S.-allied partners, among other things, with the Class of 2021 Cadets at Eisenhower Hall Theatre October 9-10. Establishing a rapport with the cadets, Esper stood before the podium and said, “I have a 44-page speech right here to give you guys.” The Class of 2021 applauded with enthusiasm, ready to be engrossed in Esper’s message. Full story.

Honorable Living Day on September 23 kicked off Honorable Living Week at West Point, focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion. This marked the fourth event hosted by the U.S. Military Academy under the supervision of Superintendent LTG Darryl A. Williams ’83. The day’s discussion centered on eradicating racism with inclusive leadership. “What I ask of you today is to reflect and think about dignity and respect,” Williams said. “We educate, train, and inspire. Hopefully, you are inspired today, and you are inspired to a call to action. Focus on listening to understand and not to respond.” The day began with a cadet panel, where cadets shared personal stories about their experiences related to racism and prejudice. The theme for this year’s seminar was “We Stand Together,” focusing on dignity and respect, cultivating an inclusive environment, and building cohesive teams. Full story. Honorable Living Day story.

Parkas just like the ones worn by cadets are once again available for parents and grandparents. Join the tradition enjoyed by many parents over the years. Order yours now at a special pre-order price. Sale ends November 2nd. Choose from the traditional style or select a lined version for extra warmth. Check out all the options at WPAOGGiftShop.com. Please add the class year to the comment section at checkout. Questions – call 800.426.4725, Mon-Fri, 10am to 5pm.

“You are what you eat,” CW4 Edgar Walle (pictured left), the installation food advisor said as he explained all the changes the Cadet Mess Hall is making to facilitate healthier food options for cadets at the U.S. Military Academy. Typically, hamburgers, fries, pre-made breakfast sandwiches, and other fast-food options were available to cadets. However, on Monday, the Go For Green taste test event took place where, during lunchtime, cadets were introduced to a new menu with all the fast-food options removed. Full story.

On October 5, at the Herbert Hall Alumni Center, WPAOG hosted the Company Ring and Crest Representatives for the Class of 2022, for an ‘appreciation tailgate.’ The idea for the event came from their class president, CDT Xavier Williams, and Ring and Crest Chairman, CDT Claire Jones. Williams said, “We wanted to have this event as a way to give back to our Company Ring and Crest Reps for the hard work they have put in for our class events over the past couple of years.” Full story.

Engraved bricks and pavers are the perfect gift to celebrate reunions, anniversaries, birthdays, graduations, or the holidays! WPAOG’s Brick and Paver program provides an opportunity for graduates and friends of West Point to honor a loved one, classmate, friend, or member of the West Point community in a significant, lasting way with a meaningful inscription. These brick and paver paths surrounding Herbert Alumni Center serve as a permanent, elegant, and recognizable remembrance to all our visitors, while also being a thoughtful and unique gift! The deadline for the next installation (Spring 2021) is March 1. For more information and to place your order, please visit our website or contact us at brick@wpaog.org.

Reserve your space in the Spring 2021 West Point Authors Bookshelf, a specially-priced advertising section in West Point magazine showcasing books by West Point affiliated authors. Check out the latest West Point Bookshelf in the Fall 2020 issue to discover and support these books. Learn more about this and other WPAOG advertising and sponsorship opportunities.