So many reasons to be thankful

In this season of Thanksgiving, I welcome the quiet time that allows us to set aside problems and focus on gratitude. There are many reasons to be thankful for the rich and purposeful life at The Citadel. Often it is the small things that remind me how special this place is, for the features of daily life are what symbolize the unity, heritage and mission that make The Citadel one of the best colleges anywhere.

MG John S. Grinalds USMC (Retired) President, The Citadel

Some of the items on my Thanksgiving list include:

The music from the carillon. Our refurbished carillon plays the Alma Mater every evening at 1700 reminding cadets of the heritage they share with generations of alumni who have preceded them.

The American flag. The Citadel embraces patriotism that proclaims our love of country with a display of flags that make the Stars and Stripes visible from any spot around Summerall Field. The grandeur of the flag above the cannons provides an inspiring reminder of our duty as citizen-soldiers and the price Citadel alumni have paid to preserve our freedoms.

The colorful quads. The red and white squares that always catch the attention of tourists and photographers remind me that The Citadel is unique and that barracks life, while seeming routine and structured to outsiders, is diverse and colorful.

Fourth Class cadets on the Avenue of Remembrance. Their quick pace and determined manner remind me of the process that teaches them to be followers as a fundamental building block to becoming leaders.

The Jody Calls during morning PT. The rhythmic chants that keep ROTC units and companies in step remind me of the importance of daily physical activity and the essential role that physical fitness plays in The Citadel experience.

The evening classes. The stream of cars and people who rush onto campus after 5 o’clock remind me that education never stops and The Citadel encourages lifelong learning through its robust College of Graduate and Professional Studies.

The inscription on the chapel. Remember Now Thy Creator In The Days of Thy Youth reminds me that faith is the wellspring of life and The Citadel remains steadfastly devoted to helping cadets grow spiritually while they develop intellectually.

The people behind these symbols. The Citadel would be nothing more than expensive real estate without the people who give life and meaning to this college. The cadets and CGPS students remind us of why we are here. Our faculty, while outstanding because of their credentials, are truly exceptional because of their dedication to teaching. Staff members work tirelessly to provide services around the clock for the college and its extended family. Alumni help us remember who we are and remind us never to forsake our commitment to excellence. Parents, friends, alumni and other supporters provide the resources to help us achieve our vision of preparing young men and women to become principled leaders.

We often talk about challenges – budget requirements, facility needs, competing demands or legal issues – but it is also important to talk about blessings. Thank you for the role you have played in making The Citadel a better place in 2004. May we all move forward together toward even greater achievements in 2005.

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