The fourth-class system is the foundation of military training and cadet life at The Citadel, shaping the young men and women who enter its gates. For the Class of 2028, this journey began on August 10, Matriculation Day, when the freshman cadet recruits moved into their barracks and took their first steps towards becoming Citadel cadets.
On Friday, March 21, the members of the Class of 2028 will shed the title of “knobs” as they transition into their roles as future leaders, preparing to guide the next class in their sophomore year.
Before officially joining the South Carolina Corps of Cadets, they must complete the Gauntlet — a rigorous physical and mental challenge that marks the culmination of their knob year. This demanding event reinforces the bonds forged through months of adversity as they work together to overcome their final test as freshmen.
On Saturday, March 22, the Class of 2028 will take part in the iconic March to Marion Square, a tradition that connects past and present Citadel graduates. Standing before the building that once housed The Citadel’s first campus, they will renew their cadet oath, affirming their commitment to the Corps. The Citadel relocated to its current campus along the Ashley River in 1922.
Recognition Day coincides with of one of The Citadel’s most important celebrations — Corps Day, the birthday of the South Carolina Corps of Cadets, is one of the most highly attended weekends at The Citadel. This year marks the 182nd anniversary of the beginning of the Corps.
Corps Day events include:
- Open barracks and pipe band performances, 8:30 – 10 a.m.
- The Citadel Rifle Legion performance, 9 – 9:10 a.m.
- Summerall Guards performance, 9:15 – 9:45 a.m.
- Jeep review parade and Palmetto Medals presentation, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
- March to Marion Square, 2:30 p.m.
- Class of 2028 oath renewal, 3 p.m.
Photos from Recognition Day and Corps Day will be available for purchase through The Citadel’s photo store in early April.
For the media
Most events on Friday and Saturday are open to the media with advance notice. Please contact Zach Watson by email at zwatson2@citadel.edu or phone at 843-814-9410 if you’d like to attend.
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