Each fall, The Citadel welcomes thousands of alumni, family members and friends back to campus for one of the most anticipated weekends of the year — Homecoming. This year’s celebration marked more than 100 years of Citadel Homecomings, with alumni returning to reconnect with classmates, relive memories and celebrate their shared legacy.

Homecoming is the college’s largest alumni event, serving as a cornerstone for engagement and tradition. It stands as The Citadel’s biggest opportunity to bring alumni back to campus and strengthen the bonds that endure long after graduation. More than a nostalgic return, it reinforces the roots of mentorship, tradition and institutional loyalty. Among those returning to campus, the Class of 1975 held special distinction as they celebrated their 50th reunion. The milestone reunion included a series of class events, a review parade and other moments meant to honor the lifelong friendships that began on campus five decades ago.

For Rick Crosby, Class of 1975, returning to campus for his 50th reunion was more than just a milestone. It felt like stepping back into a brotherhood that time had never changed.

“Some of those guys I truly have not seen in 50 years. We had 186 classmates come back, which is more than we’ve ever had. I think for all folks that were there, it was a very memorable and pleasant experience,” said Crosby.

While those joining the Gold Corps took center stage, The Citadel also welcomed alumni from across the decades — including those who graduated more than 50 years ago and continue to return each fall. Whether it’s their fifth or 75th reunion and beyond, Homecoming offers every graduate a chance to reflect on how their Citadel experience shaped their lives, both personally and professionally.

For Brig. Gen. Hugh Tant, U.S. Army (Ret.), ’71, being back on campus for Homecoming brought a surge of memories and a renewed appreciation for the institution that helped define his path. Tant was also recognized as The Citadel Alumni Association’s Distinguished Life Member for 2025, the highest award the CAA gives.

“I have always been very proud of being a Citadel graduate and alumni. And it’s very clear to me that the Corps of Cadets standing on the field today, they are the heart of The Citadel and that magnificent band, they’re the heartbeat. The spirit of The Citadel is carried throughout the years with that band and the bagpipers,” said Tant. “I owe so much to The Citadel because I learned leadership and I learned how to get things done, seek action and demand action. And I learned all that here, and how to take care of people. That all makes Homecoming more important — when you’re around people of like mind that love this country and want to see it preserved and defended. The Citadel is right at the center of that for me.”

Crosby also reflected on the emotional significance of the memorial service, which he said was one of the most meaningful parts of the weekend.

“It’s hard to realize that we have had 50 years pass and especially the fact that those guys are no longer with us. It’s a very somber and sobering part of the weekend. But I think it was very meaningful for those that were there and brought back some very good memories of some classmates that we were very close to. It makes you appreciate a couple of things,” said Crosby. “It makes you appreciate the fact that you’re still living, but it makes you appreciate the fact that you can go and hug some of those guys that you really love and that you’ve been through so much with, and especially those that you don’t see often. It’s as if we have not missed a beat. When you start talking to these guys, the last thing that you’re looking for is something to talk about. You’ve got so much in common and so much that you’ve been through, you reconnect immediately. And then basically you go through a quick download of what life has been like for the past 50 years or 20 years.”

Another highlight of the weekend was alumni giving back to their alma mater through class reunion campaigns. Alumni giving set a record this year, with more than $14 million given in support of The Citadel.

Looking ahead, The Citadel Alumni Association invites graduates of all years to return, re-engage and rediscover what it means to be part of The Citadel Family.