Returning to West Point this past year for my 50th Class Reunion was a profoundly moving experience. As you know, there is something truly special about reconnecting with classmates, sharing stories of our time, and seeing how the bonds forged at the Academy endure across decades. Last spring, as I wrapped up my 50-year affiliate class experience and joined the West Point Ready Campaign Cabinet, I was reminded of the privilege—and responsibility—of staying connected to this extraordinary institution. Superintendent’s Annual Fund WHY I GIVE A Letter from LTG (R) Robert L. Caslen Jr. ’75, DBA
When I was asked to once again serve West Point by reaching out to you today to join me in supporting the Superintendent’s Annual Fund , West Point’s #1 funding priority, I did not hesitate. Through WPAOG, each of us can stay linked to the Academy, support its mission, and ensure that the next generation of leaders is equipped with the character, competence, and confidence to succeed in any mission. Ever since I graduated in 1975, I have been drawn back to this place time and again. Whether serving as a TAC officer, Commandant of Cadets, or as the 59th Superintendent, I have continually been inspired by the caliber of officers the Academy develops—leaders prepared to meet the complex demands of warfighting and service to our nation. I look back on my years as a cadet with a combination of gratitude and a sense of accomplishment. The Academy prepared me
to do what our country asked of me. My West Point experience molded me into the leader I am today, simply because West Point’s motto, Duty, Honor, Country, embodied into each of us the values the American people demand, whether we serve wearing the cloth of our nation, or service in the corporate world, or even within our communities. Today’s cadets are serving in an ever- complex, multi-faceted, digitally engaged, global environment. They are as patriotic as any generation has ever been, and they are ready to bring their expertise to the fight. They have the courage and tenacity to rise to the occasion and take their turn to serve. Government appropriated funds provide for the minimum standards, but if we want our future leaders to experience academic, military, physical, and character programs that will make them the best leaders of the world’s
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WEST POINT ASSOCIATION OF GRADUATES
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