Answering the Nation's Call to Arms

Ever since the Spanish-American War of 1898 Aggies have served with honor in virtually every conflict in which the United States has been involved.

World War I
In April 1917, America was drawn into the conflict raging in Europe that came to be known as World War I. The senior class of 1917 volunteered for officer's training at Leon Springs, near San Antonio, a month before the end of school. Recognizing the patriotic motive of this action, the College awarded them their degrees. Training could not be interrupted for academic ceremonies on the campus, and that year the graduation exercises for Texas A&M were held under a large oak tree in the hills near San Antonio. Fifty-five Aggies gave their lives in this war and many more were wounded in the service of their country.

World War II
On December 7, 1941, America was plunged into World War II, and cadets again responded to the nation's call to arms. In order to speed up its contribution of well-trained men, the college instituted a twelve-month, three-semester program of study. In addition, the College offered training to Army Specialized Training Program (ASTP) Cadets, Army Air Corps, Navy radio specialists and Marine Corps trainees.

Some 5,000 reserve officers who had been trained and commissioned at A&M, and another 7,000 who had received some military training here, were commissioned through Officers Candidate Schools during World War II. Six thousand more served effectively as the direct result of A&M training, most as noncommissioned officers.

Seven Aggies have been awarded the United States’ highest military award, the Medal of Honor. Over 225 Aggies have become Generals and Admirals. Today, around the world, the men and women of A&M continue their exemplary service in defense of our great nation.