The Citadel announces the 61 rising-senior cadets who are now officially members of the elite military drill troupe.

The Citadel honored four of its most outstanding cadets and two distinguished faculty members during the May 8 commencement ceremonies.

In a joint commissioning ceremony, members of the Class of 2021 accepted commissions into the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps.

In ’21, there are some unusual ties between the Mechanical and Civil Engineering programs: Two mechanical engineers, two civil engineers, four athletes and two musicians.

The Citadel honors some of its best and brightest with more than 60 awards, celebrating achievements in academics, leadership and service.

“I listened to my dad who said to enjoy the small things at The Citadel because when we look back those are going to be the big things. The past four years will be hard to beat.”

More than 560 cadets will graduate as members of The Citadel Class of at McAlister Field House.

“On-campus housing is available to all degree-seeking students attending summer programs.”

In three years, John Rush III aspires to graduate with a Citadel business degree and become a fourth-generation military service member.

“Christian views criticism as an opportunity for improvement and always strives for perfection. He may be one of the most outstanding cadets I have ever met.”