Softly Call the Muster

My family made the pilgrimage to College Station yesterday for Muster. It really is true that a two hour ceremony can sum up the Aggie Spirit better than words ever can. As Aggies the world over gather together to honor Aggies known and unknown who have died since the previous April 21st, pride of our heritage is clearly evident.

This year's 50th Class Reunion was the c/o '59. What an amazing group of men! I love listening to the stories that are told about how life was like at AMC 'back in the day'. I love that these gentlemen all saluted our flags during the national and state anthems. It's sad how our country has lost it's sense of pride, but that's another story for another day.

Last night's Muster in College Station was particularly special as Dr. Robert Gates was the speaker. I was heartbroken when President Bush asked Dr. Gates to leave A&M as the university's president to become Secretary of Defense 4 short months before my graduation. I had been very excited that the former head of the CIA would sign and hand me my diploma. Dr. Gates wasn't an Aggie student, but he embraced us, loved us, and came to cherish the Aggie world, as he lovingly reminded us last night.

I can't imagine the pressures of being Secertary of Defence. Dr. Gates asked us all to stand before the official roll call was announced so that we could have a special roll call for the 22 Aggie military men and women who have died in combat since Dr. Gates took office. I am so proud of my school for developing leaders brave enough to give the greatest sacrifice for our country to protect our freedom. Thank you, Dr. Gates, for having us remember them and the tradition upon which our university was built.

Dr. Gates

RV's about to give the 21 gun salute as the families hold the candles for their loved ones.

In Memoriam:
We stood a little taller,

and a little prouder then

When we heard the call of Muster

and the Roll Call just begin.

We stood there all together

and wiped away the tears

When our names were called out softly

and answered with a “Here!”...

and so we’ve joined together

with our brothers of the past

To make our final resting place at

Aggieland our last.

We take a toast to our brotherhood

wherever they may roam,

For us the trek is over

Aggieland we’re coming home.

by Lt. Col. David Harrigan ‘68