Cadets Recognized at Commandant’s Awards

Cadets Jordan Starin '13 and Kevin Otte '15 accept the commandant's cup on behalf of Company G as Col. Thomas Trumps '79, commandant of cadets, attaches the commandant's cup streamer to the company's guidon. – VMI Photo by John Robertson IV.

LEXINGTON, Va., May 21, 2012 – Just before this year’s commencement ceremony May 16, the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th classes, along with select 1st Class cadets, gathered in Jackson Memorial Hall to recognize individual excellence in the Corps and to honor company accomplishments.

The Company Cup, which recognizes academic excellence, was awarded to Company A.

The Commandant’s Cup, which is awarded based on performance on the VMI fitness test, the 3rd Class marksmanship competition, and the North Post Challenge, was awarded to Company G.

The Garnett Andrews Cup, which recognizes military efficiency, was awarded to Company E.

The Superintendent’s Cup, which recognizes excellence in the areas of academics, military efficiency, and physical fitness was also awarded to Company E.

Cadet Sean Noll announced winners during the ceremony, and Col. Thomas Trumps ’79, commandant of cadets, presented the awards. Eight individuals were recognized for their achievements:

Lemuel Mackennie Long Jarman Award – Hannah Dickinson ’15.
William Brent Bell ’67 Award – Weston Hitchcock ’14.
Distinguished Third Class Leadership Award – John Mattingly ’14.
Association of Military Colleges and Schools of the United States Medal – Chad Surganovich ’12.
Veteran’s Recognition Award – David Charles Downing ’12.
Community Service Award – James Manuel Rivas ’12.
Physical Fitness Award –Michelle A. Church ’15 and Matthew Brock ’12.

Twenty-three 3rd Class cadets who scored more than 38 hits out of 40 during the record qualification received the U.S. Army Expert Rifle Qualification Badge.

Twelve cadets were recognized for the performance of their teams during the North Post Challenge. Each member of the top three teams received handcrafted sheath knives.

–John Robertson IV