By Robin Nelson '22, Texas A&M University Corps of Cadets
Senior cadet James Guandolo will march as second in command ahead of Saturday’s Texas A&M football game against Arkansas
The Texas A&M Corps of Cadets will conduct a march-in through downtown Fort Worth on Saturday, Sept. 28. The Corps march-in is a long-standing tradition that showcases one of the nation’s largest uniformed student bodies. Dallas native, James Guandolo, a 2021 graduate of Highland Park High School and the current Deputy Corps Commander, will help lead the Corps’ 2,400-plus cadets as the organization’s second in command.
“It will be surreal marching in Fort Worth this year for the final time. Getting to know so many people across the Quad and building these deep friendships is what will make the experience truly special. Knowing that hundreds of my friends are marching behind me and then getting to go to the game and cheer on the Aggies with them will be so awesome. Marching with my Corps buddies past my family and friends from home will be such a blessing,” Guandolo said.
“The Corps trip is important because it allows us to showcase the Corps to groups of people that normally do not get to see us. Every year, my buddies and I travel to Dallas together and spend the weekend at my house. All the time we’ve spent together on this trip has grown our relationship and the bond we share,” he said.
The Corps of Cadets’ march through downtown Fort Worth began in 2009 with the revitalization of the rivalry game between Texas A&M and Arkansas at AT&T stadium. Throughout the years, cadets have made the trip from College Station to Fort Worth to march in front of thousands ahead of the football game. This year marks the final game between the Aggies and Razorbacks in AT&T Stadium.
“As I prepare for this weekend’s march, I truly appreciate what A&M has done for me. Coming back home serves as a reminder of how special being an Aggie is. I hope to live up to the great men and women who have gone before me in making their hometowns proud of them,” Guandolo said.
The Corps of Cadets dates its origins to the creation of Texas A&M in 1876. As the Keepers of The Spirit and the Guardians of Tradition, members of the Corps of Cadets are devoted to upholding Texas A&M’s reputation as a top-tier institution. As one of the nation’s most unique leadership development programs, the Corps of Cadets is home to students from all majors, interests and backgrounds. Though the Corps experience is deeply rooted in its iconic, military-based cultural model, military service is not mandated. The skills that cadets develop in the program are applicable in every professional environment.
For more information on the Corps’ march through downtown Fort Worth, including timing and the route, visit tx.ag/CorpsTrip2024.