Texas A&M was established as a military institution, and the Corps of Cadets has played an important part in its history and development. Although membership in the Corps became voluntary in 1965, Texas A&M historically has produced more military officers than any other institution in the nation, except for the service academies. More than 200 of its graduates have become generals or admirals. More Aggies were commissioned and fought in World War II than men from West Point or Annapolis.

The Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M is not just another ROTC unit that might be found at most campuses. The 2,200 men and women of the Corps form the largest uniformed body of students outside the U.S. military academies. Although cadets can earn commissions as military officers, membership in the Corps itself carries no military obligation. In fact, only about 30 percent of graduating cadets are commissioned, while the rest pursue civilian careers.

The Corps has more to offer than just military training. It is a tightly-knit group of students that offers camaraderie, as well as leadership training that is useful in all post-college careers.

My name is Zeb Pike, I am a junior History major from Garland, Texas, a proud member of the Corps of Cadets, Company K-2, but most importantly the Proudest Member of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Class of 2007 A-A-A WHOOP!

I came to Texas A&M because of the Corps of Cadets. The Corps of Cadets is a unique student organization like no other. The goal of the Corps of Cadets is to “develop leaders of character who are prepared to provide value-based leadership in the public and private sectors of society.”

In my first two years in the Corps, I have developed into a leader. I have the skill and confidence to conduct myself professionally when meeting with successful business men, high ranking military officials as well as other members of the student body. Aside from some of the best leadership training available, The camaderie in the Corps cannot be found in any other organization. There is an old saying in the Corps: “You will marry and bury your buddies.” The Corps of Cadets is leadership development fashioned in a military discipline lifestyle. There is no military obligation for being in the Corps. Only 40% of Cadets take a military commission. The other 60% enter the business world and become successful, mostly in part to the skills they learned in the Corps.

My name is Abby Belitzer; I am a senior Environmental Design major, from San Antonio, Texas, a proud member of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band, but most importantly the Proudest Member of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Class of 2006 A WHOOP!

I joined the Corps of Cadets and the Aggie Band because I had to see if I could do it. After seeing the Corps Recruiting Video, Gov. Perry had a quote in it that said, "Wouldn't you hate to wake up one day and think, 'Man, I wonder what it would've been like to be in the Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M.' "

When I heard him say that I new I didn't want to have any regrets and now looking back it's been one of the biggest and best decisions I've ever made. The Corps has taught me so many things such as leadership, confidence, teamwork, discipline, and time management. I've also been able to meet so many people and be involved in events I'd never imagined like the Presidential Inauguration this January.