This afternoon I assumed command of evening flag detail at Texas A&M University as Executive Officer of my unit. As I marched in front of my block of 15, we came around the bend of the Oceanography building to a scene of hundreds of members of fraternities and sororities partying on the steps of the Administration Building. As we approached the main flag pole that bears our nation's flag and that of the state of Texas, we were welcomed with an uproar of boos and curses by hundreds of members of Greek life.
Upon arriving at the main flag, I sent squads of 3 to the smaller flags that encircle the plaza. As myself and a squad of 4 stepped up to the main pole, it was covered with members of some fraternity partying and dancing. Luckily, College Station PD, actually respecting our university and nation, dispersed the Greeks who were reluctant to leave and shouted obscenities at myself and my cadets as they walked away. While the flags were lowered I brought my saber to present arms, keeping an eye on the flag to make sure it was lowered properly.
Despite harassment from countless members of Greek life, my cadets were able to properly retire our nation's colors and reform the block. Despite being insulted and having items thrown at them, they kept their military bearing and executed our purpose for crashing the Greek party... the purpose of showing respect to the flag for which millions have laid down their lives to defend and a symbol of freedom and liberty for all.
So I apologize to all those members of Greek life who felt this wasn't a purpose worth shutting down your rap music or ceasing to shout obscenities for fifteen minutes. As I marched my platoon away, groups of Greek life members thought it would be funny to block our path. I kept my bearing and announced to make way for the flag of the United States. By the steady tone of my voice and stern look of my face they got the message.
I told my freshmen that they learned a valuable lesson today. While some others party and pay no real respect to the traditions of of Texas A&M University, we in the Corps of Cadets are the true keepers of the spirit. We will execute or duties and stand loyal to the purposes of Texas A&M and of the United States of America. I am proud to be a member of the Corps of Cadets which has taught me the values of selfless service, honor, integrity, and discipline.
"The ultimate weakness of violence is that it is a descending spiral. Returning violence with violence only multiplies violence, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars."
I respect and thank my freshmen and sophomores for maintaining their military bearing and standing true to our cause while being met with just less than violence. Good job, guys. You demonstrated to all those around you, including visiting fans from the University of Florida, what the true Aggie Spirit represents