May 12, 2025

"I wear the Ring." On May 12, 2001, Pat Conroy, '67, delivered a powerful Commencement address to The Citadel's Class of 2001. 🎥 Watch it: c-span.org/program/commencement-speeches/citadel-commencement/106441 📖 Read it: patconroy.com/the-citadel-commencement-speech-i-wear-the-ring

May 9, 2025

As we continue our May tributes in honor of Memorial Day, we remember and celebrate the life of Capt Charles K. McKnight, Sr., USAF, Ret., ’58—a devoted family man, accomplished aviator, and decorated U.S. Air Force officer. McKnight exemplified leadership and service early in life. As a cadet, he was a proud member of the Color Guard, Rifle Team, Yacht Club, and Flying Club—setting the stage for a lifelong love of aviation. Commissioned into the U.S. Air Force following graduation, McKnight served with distinction from 1958 to 1966, flying coastal patrols during the Cuban Missile Crisis and completing two combat tours in Southeast Asia in 1965. His service earned him the Air Medal with five oak leaf clusters and the Southeast Asia Expeditionary Medal—recognitions of his courage and skill in the air. Following his military service, McKnight continued his aviation career with United Airlines, where he served as Captain, Flight Instructor, and Flight Examiner until retiring in 1996. He was later awarded the United Award of Merit for bravery. He also founded and led Sentry Engineering Corp. as a licensed structural engineer, continuing to fly light aircraft well into retirement. McKnight never lost touch with the values that shaped him. This May, we honor his legacy of service, integrity, and devotion—to country, family, and his alma mater.

May 8, 2025

The Citadel and the Alumni Office are on a compressed summer workweek. Office hours may vary, and some staff may be out. We recommend calling or emailing ahead to make sure the person you’re looking for is available.

May 7, 2025

As we continue our tributes during the month of May—leading up to Memorial Day—we honor the extraordinary life and service of Col Lesley L. Kersey, USAF, Ret., ’65. Kersey embodied the values of duty, honor, and respect throughout his remarkable 26-year career in the U.S. Air Force. Commissioned upon graduation, he quickly distinguished himself as a fearless fighter pilot during the Vietnam War, flying combat missions in the F-4 Phantom and serving as a Tiger Fast Forward Air Controller (Tiger FAC) at Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base. Colonel Kersey rose through the ranks to command the 480th Tactical Fighter Squadron in Germany and later served as Director of Operations at HQ United States Air Forces in Europe—one of the rare staff officers authorized to fly the F-16 Falcon in the line of duty. Among his many accolades, Kersey was awarded the Legion of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Air Medal with numerous oak leaf clusters—each a testament to his valor, leadership, and dedication. After retiring from the Air Force, he continued to lead with distinction in the private sector, while also serving his community through volunteer work in Edenton, N.C. Kersey’s legacy extends far beyond his military service. This May, and always, we remember and honor Colonel Les Kersey—a brother in arms, a Citadel man, and a true American hero—and all of our deceased alumni who served.

May 6, 2025