Maurice Bonneau is a Construction Engineering major who also serves as The Citadel football team’s XO. He is also a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and an Army contract. After graduation, Bonneau plans to commission into the National Guard Corps of Engineers and work in the construction industry.

Why did you choose The Citadel?

I chose The Citadel because I knew I needed some type of structure in my life to help me make good decisions, but also to make sure I was staying on top of my academics.

What is engraved on the inside of your ring and what is its significance?

Romans 5: 3-5. This is a verse about perseverance. Part of the verse says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope”. I found this verse during my knob year and often relied on this verse during my troubling times throughout the year as a reminder. I now refer to this as a reminder that, anytime I’m suffering, it is going to produce character and hope.

Who was the most influential person in your life that impacted your journey?

My mother is the most influential person in my life by far. She has been there for me every step of my life. She is my biggest fan. She is not only my mom but also my best friend. She always gives me the best advice and has never steered me wrong. I can always rely on her whenever I’m in need or just need someone to talk to. She is a great role model and I’m happy to call her my mother.

What are three things The Citadel taught you that you will continue into your life and career?

Nothing good comes easy, how to better myself as a leader and how to face hard challenges in life.

How do you think the challenges and experiences at The Citadel have shaped the person you are today?

My challenges and experiences here at The Citadel have forced me to grow as a person physically, mentally and emotionally in a positive way. When I look back at the way I did things or handled certain situations, I am shocked at how much I’ve grown since being at this institution. Not only have I noticed this, but my family has noticed this as well.

What will you miss the most about your time at The Citadel?

Seeing and interacting with my classmates every day.

If you could go back and give advice to your freshman self, what would you say and why?

If I could give myself advice it would be to go and do more. I would give myself this advice because there were times when I should have challenged myself more but I didn’t, which led me to fall short on some personal goals.

Do you have a unique moment from here that you will never forget?

A unique moment for me was being baptized in the Ashley River at the boat dock. That is a moment that will live me forever.

How will you bring a positive meaning to the legacy of the ring?

I plan to bring a positive meaning to the legacy of the ring by serving my country and by giving back to the school since it gave so much to me.

About The Citadel Class of 2026’s ring stories

Members of The Citadel Class of 2026 receive their rings on Friday, Sept. 19. Before getting their rings, some seniors spoke about the event’s significance with Cadet Emma Moore, the Regimental Public Affairs Officer for the South Carolina Corps of Cadets. Moore is from Akron, Ohio and has a double major in Intelligence and Security Studies and Spanish. She is a member of Sigma Delta Pi, a national Spanish honor society. After graduation, Moore hopes to conduct counter-narcotic operations for the Drug Enforcement Administration.