A Thank You From President Banks On Veterans Day
M. Katherine BanksPresident
November 11, 2021
On this eleventh day of the eleventh month, I’d like to take a few moments to reflect on the service of those who have worn our nation’s uniform in war and peace. For more than 100 years, Veterans Day has been designated to thank veterans for their sacrifices.
It’s a particularly significant day at Texas A&M because of our university’s rich military history. During the past century, our students have proudly answered our nation’s call.
Texas A&M opened as a military academy in 1876, and to this day, the Corps of Cadets remains the keeper of Aggie Spirit on campus.
Today, there are 2,100 cadets in the Corps, and although A&M started as an all-male academy, 17 percent of the cadets are now women. The Corps consistently commissions more officers into our nation’s military than any other school in the country other than the three service academies. While Corps membership today carries no military obligation, many cadets still go on to serve.
To support those cadets who plan to lead our military ranks in the future, I am pleased to announce the new Patriot Scholarship program, a $5 million annual investment for our Army, Navy/Marine and Air Force/Space Force ROTC cadets. The Patriot Scholarship will supplement federally-funded ROTC tuition scholarships and will provide funding for room and board for these students to achieve a “full ride” scholarship. These scholarships will help increase membership in the Corps of Cadets and reward these outstanding students for their leadership, selfless service and dedication to the security of our nation.
Our university is proud to serve as a home for learning and personal growth for many veterans. Texas A&M provides veterans’ educational benefits to more than 3,800 students.
On this Veterans Day, I’m proud to say that Texas A&M’s commitment to the military remains as strong as ever.
Please join me in recognizing our veterans on this important day of remembrance. Let us take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices they have made for our nation.
Katherine Banks
President