February 20, 2026

Parents, family, and friends of the Class of 2026: There are only 78 days until Commencement on May 9! Now is the time to secure a Current Student Life Membership for your cadet/student at the special graduation rate of $400. To purchase, pay in full on our website: https://citadelalumni.org/product/life-membership-current-student-paid-in-full/. Important: Payment must be received by March 15 for your cadet/student to pick up their membership items with classmates and be announced as a Life Member at Commencement. Memberships paid after March 15 may not be ready in time, though the $400 rate is available through May 9. The regular price of Life Membership is $700, so don’t wait! Citadel Clubs may also wish to honor graduating cadets or Graduate College students with a Life Membership as a meaningful way to celebrate their achievements.

February 19, 2026

On February 19, 1941, with the passage of the Coast Guard Reserve and Auxiliary Act, the civilian Coast Guard Reserve was renamed the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and a new military Coast Guard Reserve was established.

On February 18, 1865, The Citadel ceased operation as a college when Union troops entered Charleston and occupied the site.

February 17, 2026

The Citadel Alumni Association Distinguished Alumnus Highlight LTG E. John Deedrick, Jr., USA, Ret., '88 Appointed as the United States Military Representative to NATO in Belgium on August 24, 2021, LTG Deedrick has served in some of the Army’s most critical leadership roles. His commands include Combined Security Transition Command–Afghanistan, Commanding General of the 1st Special Forces Command (Airborne) at Fort Bragg, and Special Operations Command, 10th Special Forces Group in Korea. A veteran of the Gulf War, Iraq War, and Operation Inherent Resolve, his distinguished service has been recognized with two Defense Superior Service Medals, two Legion of Merit awards, and two Bronze Star Medals. Learn more about distinguished alumni at citadelalumni.org/news-stories/distinguished-alumni/dcal/.

February 16, 2026

🍖 49th Annual Citadel Alumni Legislative Barbecue 🍖 Join The Citadel Alumni Association for an evening of fellowship and appreciation for South Carolina’s legislators, constitutional officers, and judiciary. Celebrate alumni service to the state and nation — fully funded by alumni and friends! When: Tuesday, April 14, 2026, 6:30 PM Where: Goodman Building, State Fairgrounds, Columbia, SC Join The Citadel Alumni Association for an evening of fellowship and appreciation for South Carolina’s legislators, constitutional officers, and judiciary. Celebrate alumni service to the state and nation — fully funded by alumni and friends! Sponsorship Levels: Supporter: $120 – 4 tickets Individual Sponsor: $240 – 8 tickets + recognition Sustaining Sponsor: $420 – 12 tickets + recognition Major Donor: $700 – 20 tickets + recognition RSVP & sponsor by April 7, 2026 → citadelalumni.org/bbq 21+ only | Let’s honor our heritage and show our support! 🐾