[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 13]
[Senate]
[Page 18723]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



              TEXAS A&M/CORPS OF CADETS 125TH ANNIVERSARY

 Mrs. HUTCHISON. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize with 
pleasure Texas A&M University on its 125th anniversary. Texas A&M, one 
of our Nation's finest institutions of higher education, was opened on 
October 4, 1876 as the Agriculture and Mechanical College of Texas. 
From its roots of agriculture and engineering, A&M has grown into a 
world class university that is a leader in university research and 
development. It also offers an amazing 383 degree-granting programs. 
Although the university is justifiably proud of its academic 
reputation, A&M is especially proud of its famous Corps of Cadets.
  For 125 years, A&M's Corps of Cadets have provided our State and 
country with leaders in the military, government and business. Texas 
A&M has the largest cadet corps outside the U.S. military academies and 
commissions more officers in all four branches of service than any 
other university military program. Former cadets have served in every 
military conflict, from the Indian Wars to Desert Storm. During World 
War II, 54,000 Aggies served as officers, more than any other school, 
including the service academies. They have always answered our Nation's 
call, and they have always met the challenge. Although only a small 
percentage of Texas A&M's student population, members of the Corps of 
Cadets are the keepers of the many famous traditions at A&M that 
contribute to the unique culture and spirit that is ``Aggieland.'' 
Today, former cadets serve in leadership and frontline forces 
throughout our military services and will help lead our Nation to 
success in this 21st century war against terrorism.
  Although the military has seen technology move from horse and rifle 
to spacecraft and lasers, the foundations of our military, leadership 
and teamwork, remain the same. These traits are the bedrock of the 
Corps and of Texas A&M University and explain the success of the 
University and its graduates. During this most difficult time in our 
Nation's history, we are all learning the value and strength of A&M's 
Corps of Cadets motto, Per Unitatem Vis--Through Unity, Strength.
  On behalf of my colleagues in the United States Senate, and with just 
and lasting pride, I offer heartfelt appreciation and respect to all 
the current and former members of the illustrious Texas A&M University 
Corps of Cadets. I also wish all Aggies around the world a Happy 125th 
Anniversary.

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