TO: The Corps of Cadets, The Citadel

The Citadel, the Military College of South Carolina, has long stood as a bastion of honor, integrity, and ethical virtue. The Long Gray Line looks to you to preserve this institution's rigid military discipline, high academic standards and, most important, its uncompromising commitment to the Cadet honor Code. The Citadel's great reputation rests upon these ideals, and it is each cadet's duty to uphold these high principles of distinction.

The Honor Code states that a cadet will not lie, cheat, or steal, nor tolerate those who do. This ethical standard is instilled upon you from the moment you start your career as a cadet. Containing only thirteen words, the Code serves as a minimal standard of how we as cadets are expected to act and reflect the values of The Citadel. Since its existence, this cherished principle has helped mold many great leaders. At a time in history when we need great leaders, our Code will push us forward among our peers and make us better people. You will spend your tenure at The Citadel learning to adhere to the Code, but you will spend the rest of your life believing and leading others in the Code.

The Citadel does not make you an honorable person; it merely provides the foundation. You alone can make yourself an honorable person. If you make the commitment to embrace the spirit as well as the letter of the Code, then you will attain the benefits of honor and integrity, and they will follow you for the rest of your life.

Donald J. Dyer

Cadet Lieutenant Colonel

2010 Honor Committee

Chairman