Looking back at Recognition Day and Corps Day 2026

Before earning formal recognition as members of the South Carolina Corps of Cadets, members of the Class of 2029 had to first make it through the Gauntlet. Having met the mental and physical demands of the fourth-class system, these cadets are now ready to move into the next chapter of their Citadel journey: leadership development.

Learning to lead starts with learning to follow. The fourth-class system began on Matriculation Day in August and came to a close on Friday, March 20, when their fellow cadets officially welcomed them into the Corps.

After the freshmen finished the Gauntlet’s grueling physical and mental challenges, Regimental Commander Cadet Col. David Ropp officially brought the fourth-class system to an end. The Gauntlet included a run around campus and the class set — 100 pushups plus the digits of their class year, totaling 129 for the Class of 2029.

“Class of 2029, for the last 214 days you have experienced the most rigorous 4^th class system in the country, this is no light feat. 214 days ago, you took a leap of faith casting yourself into an unknown environment that promised to be mentally, physically and emotionally challenging. Today marks an unforgettable milestone in this choice where you are now welcomed with open arms, not as a knob, but as a Citadel man or woman. Not every one of you who started is here today. Together, you have experienced great loss but even greater triumph which has molded and bonded you in a way which is now inseparable,” said Ropp.

The following day, Saturday, March 21, freshmen cadets marched to Marion Square — the site of the original Citadel campus — where they reaffirmed their cadet oath. The March to Marion Square stands as one of the most iconic and visually striking traditions connected to The Citadel.

Recognition Day coincided with Corps Day, this year marking the 183rd birthday of the South Carolina Corps of Cadets. Corps Day festivities included a Jeep review parade, a performance by the 2027 Summerall Guards, open barracks and pipe band performances.

Recognition Day marks a major milestone, but the road to graduation in 2029 is still long. As newly recognized members of the Corps, these cadets will spend the coming months preparing to step into leadership roles when they return in the fall for their sophomore year.

Photos from Recognition Day and Corps Day — along with other images from The Citadel’s photo store — will be available for download or purchase by early April.