Subscribe to Front & Center
Learn what's happening on the campus of Fork Union Military Academy by subscribing to Front & Center. You'll receive regular updates on the news, special events, and success stories from our Corps of Cadets, conveniently delivered to your inbox for easy viewing on your computer, tablet, or mobile phone.
Want to view past issues of the Front & Center newsletter? Find them all on our website.
It's Time to Schedule Senior & Cadet Portraits!
Schedule your senior and cadet portraits TODAY with Kristin Firewicz Studios!
Stories in this issue:
- Fork Union Holds Annual Military Ball
- Cadets Hear Sermon Message from UVa Football Team's Chaplain
- Fork Union Military Academy’s CPT Michael Head to Join Admissions Staff
- The Honor and Tradition of Challenge Coins
- Fork Union Welcomes 23 Cadets into the National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society
- LTC Tony Moss Promotes Three Deserving Cadets in Special Ceremony
- Fork Union Honors Seniors on National Decision Day
- The Next Stop Newsletter - May Edition
- Bravo Zulu Awards
- Upcoming Admissions Events
- Do you want to be a part of our Cadet Corps?
Fork Union Holds Annual Military Ball
Fork Union Military Academy held its annual Military Ball on Friday, April 22 on campus at the Social Center. The Military Ball is one of the Academy’s most cherished traditions dating back to the first Ball held on April 12, 1969.
From 1916 to 1932, the Academy held cadet-sponsored dances that improved the social life for many years, a directive issued by the Board of Trustees back in 1916 – holding dances that, technically, were not actually on the grounds of the Academy.
That all came to a crashing halt in 1932 when Dr. John J. Wicker, the fifth president of the Academy, reported to the trustees that he had abolished all social fraternities and dancing. He held the view that these activities contributed little to the purpose of the Academy, especially dances.
For 36 long years, Fork Union Military Academy remained danceless throughout the presidencies of Dr. John J. Wicker and his successor and son, Dr. James C. Wicker.
A new president, Colonel Kenneth T. Whitescarver, took office in 1968 and breathed new life into the Academy’s long dormant social life. He appointed Richard G. Huffman to develop a program to provide both formal and informal dancing for the Corps of Cadets. Huffman founded the Quadrille Club to help formulate a program of dancing at the Academy.
The Quadrille Club, which still stands today, held the first Military Ball in the Thomas Gymnasium on April 12, 1969. The student newspaper, The Sabre, gave this account of the inaugural event:
"Tonight, Fork Union Military Academy will be conducting the first Military Ball in the school's history. Both cadets and faculty are looking forward eagerly to this dance. The arrangements for the ball have been well underway since Christmas time. The Cadet Quadrille Club and the Faculty Advisory Dance Committee have worked together to make the plans for entertainment and decorations.
"The dance will be attended by cadets, faculty, parents, and friends of the Academy. Dress for the dance will be black tie or military full dress worn by parents who are in the armed forces. Cadets will wear white ducks, white shirts, and battle jackets; cadet officers will wear coatees and sashes. No headgear will be worn this evening.
"Music for the dance will be provided by the Dee Roberts Orchestra, which will play all types of music.
"The decorations for the dance will vary from the many colors of the girls' formal gowns and corsages. The gymnasium will be decorated in the Academy colors, red and blue. The lights will be blue and red, with red and blue streamers forming a canopy. Weather permitting, dogwood and redbud will also be used in decorating the gymnasium. There will be potted blooms and branches interlaced in the windows.
"During the dance cadets and their dates will be free to come and go to the Sabre Shop where refreshments may be purchased. Punch will also be served at candlelit tables in the gym.
"Girls have been invited from St. Anne's and St. Catherine's Schools, and also invited again were girls from St. Margaret's and Fairfax Hall, who were wonderful dates at our last dance and are enthusiastic about returning to the academy. Girls coming unchaperoned will be staying in faculty homes.
"At the magical hour of 12:00 o'clock midnight, the dance will come to a close, and, along with the prom favors, we hope all who attended the Military Ball will take away with them memories of a wonderful evening.”
The Sabre, April 12, 1969
The Military Ball is continuing as an important tradition at Fork Union Military Academy for more than half a century. Music might more often be supplied by digital audio players instead of by a live band, and the festivities might end sooner than midnight. But the impressive Arch of Sabres remains, as does the dress code. The location is different with it being at the Social Center and this year’s theme was Ancient Greece. Juniors, seniors and postgraduates are only able to attend. Ladies from St. Margaret’s were also invited.
Check out the gallery below of a very entertaining night.
Cadets Hear Sermon Message from UVa Football Team's Chaplain
Vincent Croce is the Fellowship of Christian Athletes area director and the University of Virginia Football team Chaplain. Today Vince shared with us his message of hope and encouraged our cadets to seek God right we they are at. He shared with the corps of cadets the story of Adam and Eve and The Fall in Genesis 3. He led with the question, ”Where are you?” Genesis 3:9 God asks Adam and Eve, “Where are you?”
Vince shared with cadets that God knows exactly where we are, He knows what we need, and He is a God who gave everything up for us. God was willing to go to the cross, bear our sins and die for us so that we can have eternal life in Heaven. Our God does not reject us. He is a God who loves us right where we are. All we have to do is turn to Him, believe in Him and trust in Him.
The Corps of Cadets gathers in Wicker Chapel each Sunday, Monday, and Wednesday morning for chapel services.
Fork Union Military Academy’s CPT Michael Head to Join Admissions Staff
Fork Union Military Academy has moved CPT Michael Head from a faculty role to Admission Counselor as seven-year employee MAJ Mark Shuman has accepted a position at the collegiate level, Director of Enrollment Management Mrs. Jackie Montero-Sharpe announced Friday. CPT Head will join the staff in June.
“Congratulations to MAJ Shuman for his new and exciting opportunity at Radford University Carilion,” said Montero-Sharpe. “He will be greatly missed by everyone at the Academy. MAJ Leydig has been promoted to Assistant Director of Admission. The Admission Office is looking forward to CPT Head stepping into the Admission Counselor position.”
Shuman, the Assistant Director of Admission at the Academy who focused on 10th, 11th and 12th graders, has accepted a new role as an Enrollment Counselor of Undergraduate Admission at Radford University Carilion. The Fork Union native was employed by the Academy in the summer of 2016 and is a 2010 alumnus.
With this move, MAJ Gary Leydig will be promoted to the Assistant Director of Admission at the Academy. Leydig will continue to oversee enrollment for 7th, 8th, and 9th graders. CPT Head will oversee enrollment for 10th, 11th, and 12th graders.
Fork Union welcomed CPT Head to campus fulltime in 2021 as an Upper School Instructor, teaching history, woodworking and public speaking for the last two years. He is no stranger to the Academy, as he was a four-year cadet that graduated in 2017. The alumnus also worked Summer School for two summers in 2018 and 2019. CPT Head is a 2021 graduate of the University of Virginia with a B.A. in Religious Studies.
“As an alumnus of the Academy, we know CPT Head will be able to effectively share the FUMA mission,” added Montero-Sharpe.
The Honor and Tradition of Challenge Coins
You may have seen it on the news or in photographs: the glint of metal in the palm of the US President as they shake hands with a distinguished individual. This brief yet significant exchange may have piqued your curiosity, leaving you to wonder just what that shiny object might be. The answer lies in the rich tradition of challenge coins, a long-standing practice with roots in military history that has evolved into a powerful symbol of recognition, honor, and camaraderie.
In this article, we will explore the fascinating history, meaning, and tradition of challenge coins, delving into their origins, their growth in the US military, and their use today. As you learn more about these tokens of appreciation and the stories behind them, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the significance of that glint of metal and the powerful message it conveys.
What is a Challenge Coin?
Challenge coins are small, medallion-like tokens, often adorned with the emblem or insignia of the presenting organization. Challenge coins serve as a symbol of membership, belonging, and camaraderie, forging a strong bond among those who possess them. Additionally, they are used to acknowledge an individual's achievements, dedication, or exemplary service, and serve as a tangible reminder of the appreciation and respect of their peers and superiors.
Receiving a challenge coin is a great honor, as it signifies that the recipient has played a special role, making a significant impact on their peers and the organization as a whole.
Today, challenge coins are used across all branches of the US military, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. They have become an integral part of military culture and tradition, with each unit creating their unique coins featuring their insignia, motto, or other elements that represent their identity and values. The tradition has not only spread throughout the military but has also been adopted by other organizations such as police, fire departments, and even academic institutions such as Fork Union Military Academy.
The History of the Challenge Coin
The origin of the challenge coin is somewhat murky, hidden perhaps in "the fog of war." Peter Morrell of Wizard Pins (a manufacturer of modern challenge coins) suggests that the challenge coin dates back to Roman times, when soldiers who performed exceptional services would be rewarded with Roman coins which might bear the legion's insignia—bonus pay, as it were.
World War I
The more modern origin of the challenge coin as we know it can possibly be traced back to World War I, with a story, which may be apocryphal but is widely told, involving a young American pilot who volunteered for a newly-formed flying squadron. As a gesture of camaraderie and unity, the wealthy squadron leader commissioned the creation of bronze medallions, each bearing the squadron's emblem, which he presented to his fellow pilots as a memento of their service together.
One young pilot, who wore the medallion in a small leather pouch around his neck, was later shot down over enemy territory and captured by German forces. The Germans confiscated all of his identifiable belongings, leaving him with only his medallion. During an air raid, the pilot managed to escape captivity and, dressed in civilian clothing, made his way to the front lines in the hopes of reuniting with his squadron.
As he approached the allied lines, the young pilot was apprehended by French soldiers who, unable to verify his identity, suspected him of being a German saboteur. Facing execution, the pilot remembered his medallion and presented it to his captors, who recognized the squadron's insignia. The French soldiers delayed the execution, giving the pilot enough time to confirm his identity and ultimately saving his life.
Upon his return to his squadron, the pilot's story spread, and the tradition of carrying the medallion as a form of identification began to take root.
World War II and Beyond
During World War II, stories about the use of challenge coins experienced significant growth.
One notable tale of challenge coin usage during World War II involves the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), the precursor to the modern-day Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). Members of the OSS were often operating behind enemy lines, performing covert missions, and gathering intelligence. To help identify fellow OSS agents, they carried challenge coins bearing the OSS insignia. These coins not only served as a form of identification but also instilled a sense of unity and belonging among the agents who were risking their lives for their country.
Is this OSS story true? Well, since it involves spies on covert missions, we will probably never know for sure.
One thing we do know for sure is that the challenge coin tradition continued to grow and evolve more rapidly within the military community during the Korean War and Vietnam War, eventually encompassing all branches and units of the US armed forces. Possessing a unit's challenge coin indicated that an individual was a trusted member of the team and shared the same values, experiences, and goals as their comrades.
Over time, challenge coins became an informal "identification card" within the military community. They have become a way to commemorate important milestones, such as promotions, deployments, or the completion of specialized training. When presented among service members, the coins would often lead to stories of shared experiences, deployments, or training, further strengthening the bonds of camaraderie and brotherhood. As a result, challenge coins have come to embody the essence of what it means to be part of a military unit, serving as a tangible reminder of the shared experiences and the unwavering commitment to one another that defines military service.
The Challenge Coin Grows Beyond the Military
While challenge coins have been associated with the US military for many years, the tradition of US Presidents presenting challenge coins began with President Bill Clinton. He was the first president to have his unique challenge coin and to use them to recognize military personnel, dignitaries, and other notable individuals.
President Clinton was introduced to challenge coins by military personnel during his time in office, and he soon embraced the tradition. His challenge coin featured the presidential seal on one side and the White House on the other. President Clinton displayed various military challenge coins that he had received on a special rack in the Oval Office, highlighting his appreciation for the tradition and the military community.
The practice of presidential challenge coins was continued by President George W. Bush, who presented coins to military personnel, especially those who had served in Iraq and Afghanistan. President Bush's challenge coin bore the presidential seal, his signature, and the words "Commander in Chief."
Subsequent presidents, including Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden, have maintained the tradition of having their unique challenge coins and presenting them as tokens of appreciation and recognition to military personnel and other distinguished individuals. The presidential challenge coin has become an integral part of the relationship between the Commander-in-Chief and the men and women who serve the nation, symbolizing gratitude, honor, and respect.
The use of challenge coins has spread to police and fire departments, as well a many businesses and organizations who have now adopted the challenge coin tradition to recognize their employees' achievements, foster team spirit, and commemorate special events.
Fork Union Military Academy Cadets Receive a Very Special Challenge Coin in 2008
In November of 2008, nine cadets learned firsthand about the tradition of challenge coins when their class went on a special field trip to the Pentagon in the Washington, DC area. They received a VIP tour of the Pentagon and then enjoyed an office tour and luncheon as guest of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Mike Mullen, who served as the Chairman under both Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. Each cadet received Admiral Mullen's challenge coin as a memento of their once-in-a-lifetime visit.
Cadets enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime experience when their class field trip took them to the Pentagon for a special tour as the guest of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Mike Mullen, in November of 2008.
The Challenge Coin at Fork Union Military Academy
Fork Union Military Academy, with its strong military foundation, first adopted this challenge coin tradition in 2011 when Rear Admiral J. Scott Burhoe, USCG (Ret.), was the President of the school. RADM Burhoe had previously been the Superintendent of the US Coast Guard Academy and was very familiar with the military traditions of the challenge coin and he oversaw the design of the first Presidential Challenge Coin at Fork Union Military Academy.
When RADM Burhoe retired in 2018, the incoming president, Colonel David L. Coggins, USMC (Ret.), continued the use of the president's challenge coin and expanded it use even further in recognizing the achievements of the Academy's cadets and building a sense of pride in Fork Union Military Academy.
The challenge coins not only celebrate individual accomplishments but also contribute to the sense of community and shared values within Fork Union Military Academy.
In a particularly fun way of gifting the president's challenge coin to FUMA cadets, Col. Coggins initiated a special annual event during summer school—The President's Annual Coin Toss in the Pool. Each July, Col. Coggins gathers the summer school attendees at the edge of the pool and explains the significance of the challenge coin and what it means as a symbol of the Academy. He gives the countdown for the young men to leap into the pool—into which he has scattered a variety of pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters, and a few of the prized challenge coins—and dive in search of the coins.
It's an exciting and enjoyable way for Col. Coggins to deliver a message to the students about what Fork Union Military Academy stands for, and it provides a welcome and memorable break from their summer studies.
At Fork Union Military Academy, challenge coins are presented by the school president individually to cadets who have demonstrated outstanding performance in academics, leadership, athletics, or service to the school and their fellow cadets. These tokens of appreciation and recognition serve as a constant reminder of the recipient's dedication and commitment to excellence.
The tradition of challenge coins, with its roots in military history, continues to play a significant role in fostering a sense of honor, unity, and brotherhood within the Corps of Cadets at Fork Union Military Academy. As symbols of recognition and appreciation for exceptional achievements, challenge coins inspire and motivate cadets to strive for excellence in all aspects of their lives. As this storied tradition carries on, challenge coins will remain an integral part of the rich history and culture of Fork Union Military Academy.
Fork Union Welcomes 23 Cadets into the National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society
Fork Union Military Academy welcomed 23 new cadets into the National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society in a special induction ceremony held at the Wicker Chapel.
The National Honor Society President Jackson Pretus led the ceremony with inductees and their parents, faculty members and administration.
Seven cadets were welcomed to the National Junior Honor Society, including the list below:
8th Grade
- Jayden Anderson
- Nico Brown
9th Grade
- Robert Callahan
- Nicholas Coleman
- Val Kelestyn
- Jimmy Sa Said
- Iker Serrano
The seven cadets joined the 2021-2022 inductees Ellis Roberts and Travis Tran.
17 cadets were welcomed to the National Honor Society, including the list below:
11th Grade
- Jaxon Brooks-Powell
- Jacob Clodfelter
- George Gurney
- Laith Haddad
- Tyler Manglicmot
- Hunter McDonnell
- Everett Mitchell
- Kelvin Montiseinos
- Cameron Oppenheim
- Ethan Schroyer
12th Grade
- George Boitano
- Austin Lenherr
- Michael Marandure
- Isaac Rivera
- Copeland Spearman
- Matthew Vinso
The cadets joined the 2021-2022 inductees Grant DeMorro, Ousmane Dieng, Justin Fraser, Welsey Lay, Pretus and Lucas Yates.
Following the ceremony, a special reception was held for the inductees and their families.
LTC Tony Moss Promotes Three Deserving Cadets in Special Ceremony
Fork Union Military Academy’s Commandant of Cadets LTC Tony Moss promoted three well-deserving cadets in a special ceremony in front of their peers Friday morning at Commandant’s Call in the Wicker Chapel.
“I was thrilled to promote c/COL Grant DeMorro, c/ MAJ Kendall Coard and c/CPT Matthew Moore,” said LTC Moss. “They have worked hard and served well at FUMA, and it all pays off in the long run. Rising in the ranks is a clear acknowledgment of their leadership skills, dedication, and determination. We’re so proud of the work they have done to earn this honor and look forward to the great things they will achieve on their journey to the next chapter of their life. I'm incredibly proud of these young men. Well-deserved!”
Senior Matthew Moore was promoted from Second Lieutenant to Captain. The Alexandria, Virginia native is in his sixth year at the Academy and has led our band to extraordinary levels as the Drum Major. Moore is the son of Danielle Stossier. The band is looking forward to competing at the Apple Blossom Festival this weekend.
Senior Kendall Coard was promoted from Captain to Major. The Southampton, New York native has showed great leadership all year round, assisting the Commandant daily on operational tasks. Coard is the son of June Martinez-Coard and Kenneth Coard and is in his fourth year at the Academy.
Senior and Battalion Commander Grant DeMorro was promoted from Lieutenant Colonel to Colonel, a promotion that has not happened at the Academy for over five years for a Battalion Commander. The Palmyra, Virginia native has been very proactive and engaged in developing cadets as the top-ranked officer this year. DeMorro is the son of Tina and John DeMorro and is in his sixth year at the Academy. His mother, Tina, had the privilege of pinning DeMorro at the ceremony.
Congratulations, gentlemen!
Fork Union Honors Seniors on National Decision Day
Fork Union Military Academy honored its seniors on National College Decision Day this past Monday. All 47 seniors were allowed to wear their college t-shirt representing their plans after graduation.
Director of College Placement & Academic Services Mrs. Kelsey Hill organized a fun day for the seniors starting with a group photo on the Hatcher Hall steps, followed by a scavenger hunt, teacher bingo and a lunch celebration.
For the scavenger hunt, the seniors had to identify the teacher that matches the picture of the graduation cap. For the past two years, Mrs. Hill has provided all staff and faculty laminated graduation caps to post outside their door that represents their alma mater, allowing cadets to inquire about their college experience.
For the teacher bingo, the seniors were given a bingo card with descriptive blocks, and they had to try and find a staff member that matched the criteria. Examples of the criteria are below:
- “Played in his/her college’s band” – ETN1(SS) John Warren
- “Took dual enrollment courses while still in high school” – Mrs. Kelly Barnette
- “Was in a fraternity or sorority” – CPT Alton Terry
During the lunch periods, Mrs. Hill sectioned a part of the dining hall specifically for the seniors. They had the opportunity to sit with their fellow seniors, have cupcakes and sparkling cider, enter a raffle, have fun in a photo booth and celebrate their college decision. The winner of the $25 Amazon Gift Card from the raffle went to senior Tugsbilguun Sodbaatar.
Congratulations to the following seniors that have finalized their post-graduation plans:
- Laquan Almond | Military
- Gene Anderson | Lewis University for basketball
- Jordan Anderson | FUMA PG Basketball
- Jeremiah Baston | The Citadel
- George Boitano | University of Rhode Island
- Charles Campbell | The Citadel
- James Clarke |New York University
- Kendall Coard | United States Naval Prep School
- Jace Corbett | Bluefield University for football
- Maurizio D’Alessandro | United States Merchant Marine Academy for basketball
- Minh Phu Dao | Penn State – Kensington Campus
- Dalton Davis | The Citadel
- Grant DeMorro | West Point
- Ousmane Dieng | Vanderbilt University
- Jackson Edwards | University of Lynchburg for track and field
- Justin Fraser | Hampden-Sydney College
- Lance Gowans | Mary Baldwin University for baseball
- Sean Hall | NOVA Community College en route to Virginia Tech
- Chayse Hill | Palm Beach Community College en route to Florida A&M University
- Tzu-Heng Hung | Portland State University
- Jai Johnson | Norfolk State University
- Damarre Joseph | Central Connecticut University
- Ashton King | Undecided
- Dominic Lancey | Bridgewater College
- Wesley Lay | Tennessee Tech University
- Maddax Lee | Christopher Newport University for football
- Austin Lenherr | James Madison University
- Thomas Manganiello |Sacred Heart University
- Michael Marandure | James Madison University
- Trenton Maxwell | The Citadel
- Jack McCall | The Citadel
- Charles Moore | James Madison University
- Matthew Moore | University of Lynchburg
- Nicholas Petrillo | Southern Utah University for football
- Jackson Pretus | College of William & Mary (joint degree program with University of St. Andrews)
- Isaac Rivera | Undecided
- James Robinson | Virginia Military Institute for band
- Alibek Saurambayev | Norwich University
- Jacob Seymore | US Coast Guard
- Ahmad Shah | Morehouse College
- Peter Signorino | Piedmont Virginia Community College
- Tugsbilguun Sodbaatar | University of Massachusetts – Boston
- Copeland Spearman | Hampden-Sydney College
- Ethan Stroh | Undecided
- Francisco Toral-Munoz | Universidad San Francisco de Quito
- Matthew Vinso | Virginia Commonwealth University
- Lucas Yates | United States Merchant Marine Academy
This Month's Edition of The Next Stop
Mrs. Kelsey Hill, Director of College Placement and Academic Services, is proud to announce the department's first audio newsletter, The Next Stop. Each month, Mrs. Hill will release an audio newsletter to detailing important information for you cadet's next stop after Fork Union Military Academy.
Check out this month's edition of The Next Stop:
Bravo Zulu Award Winners
Every Friday the Fork Union Military Faculty and Staff meet to nominate a few who have exceeded the standards and demonstrated superlative performance. Whilst we have various awards and recognitions - a simple "Well Done!" we hope, is also appreciated. The combination of the Bravo and Zulu nautical signal flags, i.e., Bravo Zulu, also referred to as "BZ," is a naval signal, typically conveyed by flag hoist or voice radio, meaning "Well Done" with regard to actions, operations or performance.
The following are the Bravo Zulu awards for this week:
Cadet Lance Gowans is a senior and second-year cadet in Bravo Company. He is a day student from Palmyra, VA. Cadet Gowans volunteered to come in on the weekend to assist FUMA staff with parking and concessions during the Gus Lacy Track Classic. His initiative and pride are appreciated. Cadet Gowans signed to play baseball for Mary Baldwin University this week as well. Bravo Zulu, Cadet Gowans!
Cadet Kendall Coard is a senior and fourth-year cadet on Battalion Staff. He is a boarding student from Southampton, NY. Cadet Coard was recently accepted into the Naval Academy Preparatory School. While preparing his packet for the Naval School with the Fluvanna Sheriff’s Department, Officer Stewart was so impressed with Cadet Coard’s etiquette and professionalism that he called the Commandant’s Department to inform FUMA of the outstanding impression he made upon the Sheriff’s Department. As a result of c/CPT Coard’s impressive career here at Fork Union, and his faithful support to LTC Moss, he has been promoted to the rank of c/Major. Bravo Zulu, Cadet Coard!
Cadet Dalton Davis is a senior and third-year cadet in Bravo Company. He is a boarding student from Leland, NC.
Cadet Seth Groelz is a junior and second-year cadet in Bravo Company. He is a boarding student from Granite Bay, CA.
Cadet Nasir Shabazz-Scott is an eighth grader and first-year cadet in Charlie Company. He is a boarding student from York, PA.
Cadet Nicholas Willis is a sophomore and first-year cadet in Bravo Company. He is a boarding student from Ellicott City, MD.
These young men worked hard this week preparing each flag for all 50 states on Fraley Circle for Alumni Weekend. They take each state’s flag to heart and coordinate the careful installation and removal with great care and respect. Fraley Circle will once again be beautiful because of their commitment. Bravo Zulu, Cadets Davis, Groelz, Shabazz-Scott, and Willis!
Cadet Lucian Brucker is a junior and second-year cadet in HSC. He is a boarding student from Vienna, VA. Cadet Brucker has been going above and beyond his normal duties to stimulate leadership and to boost morale in his platoon and company. As platoon sergeant, he has created incentivized competitions, which has aided his platoon to be more productive. In addition, he took the time to interview each cadet in his platoon and create a leadership profile and development plan for his platoon’s growth. Bravo Zulu, Cadet Brucker!
Mrs. Kelsey Hill, Director of College Placement and Academic Services, Hill has worked tirelessly to make the annual Decision/College T-shirt day (May 1) a memorable day for our Seniors in the Class of 2023. Mrs. Hill planned several events for the seniors, including a photo booth in the dining hall, along will several activities throughout the day. She achieved 100% college applications and acceptances for 100 cadets, seniors and Post Graduates this year. Bravo Zulu, Mrs. Hill!
Go FUMA! | Colonel David L. Coggins, USMC (Ret.) | President | Fork Union Military Academy
Upcoming Admissions Events
The best way to learn about Fork Union Military Academy is to schedule an appointment with our Admissions Office and come for a family visit and receive your own individual tour of the campus.
We also schedule a number of Admissions Fairs in various cities and regions throughout the year.
Monday, May 29 | Campus Open House
- Come visit our campus and learn about Fork Union Military Academy! Registration is required.
Do you want to be a part of our Cadet Corps?
Are you a young man in the 7th to 12th grade? Do you want to be a man known for integrity, respect for yourself and others, faith, character, and discipline?
We encourage you to fill out an application for enrollment and join our cadets here at Fork Union Military Academy.
Thank you!
Credits:
Photos by: Kelly Barnette, Kristin Firewicz James Benson, Kelsey Hill, and Steve Macek.