New Tradition: Veterans To Wear Special Cords At Graduation

Beginning a new tradition this month, Texas A&M University will recognize graduating veterans by presenting them with special red, white and blue cords as a special form of recognition for their service to their country. Veteran degree candidates are invited to wear the cords with their academic regalia during commencement ceremonies.

“Texas A&M will proudly recognize the commitment and selfless service of our military graduates,” says Col. Gerald “Jerry” L. Smith ’82 USMC (Ret.), director of the Veteran Resource & Support Center (VRSC). “All active duty, National Guard, Reserve and U.S. military veterans who have served honorably are authorized to receive the cord that signifies the appreciation Texas A&M University has for our military and veteran students for their service and sacrifice.”

The Veteran Resource & Support Center and the Veteran Services Office will present cords during a free reception planned from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday (Dec. 12) in the Memorial Student Center Stark Galleries.

Veterans are asked to bring proof of their military service to the reception. The VRSC already has this information for students who received federal (GI Bill) or state (Hazelwood) benefits during the fall 2012 semester. Other students must present one of the following: A military ID, a DD214, a Texas “Veterans Designated” driver’s license, or a VA card, officials note.

Although military uniforms may be worn at graduation by degree candidates currently serving in the military, the cord can be worn at commencement ceremonies only by degree candidates wearing academic regalia. Military regulations prohibit wearing of such items by personnel who are in uniforms, including members of the Corps of Cadets. Active duty and other degree candidates qualifying for the cords can pick them up at the reception and have photographs taken during the presentation.

Those who plan to attend the reception are asked to RSVP to Debbie Pack at (979) 845-3161.