Armed Forces Day, first observed on May 20, 1950, commemorates the unification of the military branches under the Secretary of Defense, as proclaimed by President Harry S. Truman. Today, it is celebrated annually on the third Saturday in May.

May 16, 2025

As we continue our Memorial Day tributes this May, we honor Col James B. Way, USMC, Ret., ’60—a man whose dedication to service, leadership, and country shaped his distinguished career and lasting legacy. Way was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1960. His military career spanned more than three decades, during which he held key positions in the Marine Corps, including Commanding Officer of Battery "M", 4th Battalion, 12th Marines in Vietnam, and Chief of Staff for both the 9th Marine Amphibious Brigade and the Second Marine Division. Colonel Way’s exemplary service was recognized with prestigious awards, including the Legion of Merit (twice), the Bronze Star with Combat V, and the Marine Combat Action Ribbon—all testaments to his courage and leadership under pressure. His strategic insight and commitment were further demonstrated through his assignments at the Marine Corps Liaison to Army Material Command, the Marine Corps Staff College, and the Naval War College. After retiring from the Marine Corps, Way continued his leadership in the civilian sector as Director of Administration for prominent law firms in Columbia and Greenville, where he was also involved in the S.C. Association of Legal Administrators. May his legacy of honor, duty, and leadership endure.

On National Peace Officers Memorial Day, we honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Today, we pay tribute to those who dedicated their lives to serving and protecting our communities. Join us in taking a moment to reflect on their unwavering courage and commitment.

May 14, 2025

Nominations will be accepted through 5:00pm Monday, June 9, 2025, for the office of Association vice president and several district directors. CAA Election Packets and nomination forms are available from the CAA website and Alumni Office. For more information visit citadelalumni.org/about/elections/ The 2025 Elections will occur between the dates of August 7 to September 11, 2025.

On Monday, May 12, participants in Carry the Load’s Memorial May East Coast route visited The Citadel and met briefly with The Citadel's Senior Vice President for Operations & Administration COL Cardon B. Crawford, USA, Ret., '83, at Summerall Chapel. Carry the Load is a non-profit that raises awareness of sacrifices made by our military, veterans, first responders and their families.

As our Memorial Day tributes continue through May, we pause to honor the life and legacy of LTC John R. Young, Jr., USA, Ret., ’67—a man whose quiet strength, unwavering integrity, and lifelong service to his country left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Commissioned into the U.S. Army upon graduation, Young embarked on a distinguished 26-year military career, beginning with deployment to Vietnam. His service was marked by valor, humility, and a deep commitment to duty—recognized with honors such as the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal (5), and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation, among many others. Even after military retirement, Young continued to serve with distinction for 30 more years at the U.S. Department of Energy, contributing to national security with the same quiet dedication and honor he carried in uniform. Throughout his life, Young remained closely tied to his alma mater. A proud member of the Class of '67, he embodied the institution’s core values of Honor, Duty, and Respect. We are proud to count Lieutenant Colonel Young among our own, and we are humbled by his service, sacrifice, and legacy.

May 12, 2025