The men of the Corps today stand at a crossroads in time. The Corps of yesteryear graduated into roles as soldiers and statesmen of our young and growing nation. Our graduates faced and conquered the greatest assemblages of arms ever massed as a threat to freedom-loving nations.
Today the challenge that faces our country is not clearly defined. We see it in the jungles of Vietnam, in the struggling new nations of Africa, on the floor of the United Nations and General Assembly, in our laboratories and college campuses.
The challenges that face the Corps today reflect the increasing world pressures facing our country. Strict discipline, through physical conditioning, along with a strong sense of duty and an inbred sense of honor are as much a part of the Military Academy today as at any time in our history. However, the cadet of today must be prepared to serve his country not only as a soldier, but also in diverse roles as advisors, ambassadors and technicians. He must have an understanding of the complex social, economic and political problems that face our world community as well as a thorough knowledge of the profession of arms. He must be a linguist, and administrator and a diplomat, as well as a soldier.
Changes taking place within the Corps today reflect the new challenges that face the officer of tomorrow. Activities are geared to acquaint us with the physical, cultural and moral problems of our environment. Class privileges are designed to bring us into a closer and more realistic relationship with the civilian community with which we will be closely associated in may of our future assignments. Our education and training remain, as always, the cornerstone and strength of the Military Academy. However, above all the routine events of Academy life, our Honor system remains as a shining light that permeates every aspect of our lives.
The Corps of today is prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
Carl Robert Arvin
First Captain
Class of 1965