Current Challenges and Opportunities Call for Courageous Leadership

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COLLEGE STATION, Texas, February 26th, 2025 - The Rudder Association (TRA), a group of dedicated Aggies committed to preserving and perpetuating the core values and unique spirit of Texas A&M, responds to today’s announcement that Lieutenant General (USMC) James W. Bierman Jr, will be the 47th Commandant of the Texas A&M University Corps of Cadets. 

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TRA commends the search process for advancing four well qualified finalists. Such an outcome was the result of a well-developed and executed strategy. While Lt Gen Bierman is a graduate of the Virginia Military Institute and not Texas A&M, we recognize that this institution shares much of the history, values, and traditions inherent in our Corps of Cadets. We further recognize the United States Marine Corps as a storied and proud institution especially committed to excellence, merit, and faithful service.

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The Corps of Cadets has unprecedented institutional and alumni support at its disposal. Courageous leadership is all that is needed to translate this support onto the Quadrangle to grow the Aggie Corps in size and stature. His exemplary military career suggests that he is well prepared to build on the 150-year tradition of producing excellent leaders for service in the military and private sector. 

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The Aggie Corps is facing significant challenges which continue to impair the growth of cadet leaders and impede the growth of the organization itself. This present moment affords an opportunity to reach this generation of young Aggies and Americans who are ready to embrace the culture and values we represent and develop them into the leaders our state and nation need. 

 

Howdy and welcome to Aggieland General Bierman!

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The President and Board of Directors

The Rudder Association