Cadet Leadership

Fish Drill Team Wins 13th Straight National Title

February 17, 2023 by rnelson

For the 13th consecutive year, the Fish Drill Team of the Texas A&M University Corps of Cadets has claimed the national title at Tulane University’s NROTC Mardi Gras Drill Meet. This prestigious event hosts drill teams from across the country, most of which are primarily composed of upperclassmen.

The Fish Drill Team, which is composed entirely of freshman cadets, dominated in nearly every category of the competition, winning three out of the five competition events. As a result of these efforts, the Fish Drill Team was named the overall champion of the meet, edging out teams from the United States Military Academy and Norwich University.

This success comes as a result of months of intense training for the Fish Drill Team. Through their impressive representation of Texas A&M at the national level, the class of 2026 has now made its mark in the Fish Drill Team’s storied history.

For over 145 years, the Corps of Cadets has taken individuals from all walks of life and prepared them to lead in the public, private and military sectors. Through unique experiences and opportunities like the Fish Drill Team, students are able to compete and win on the national stage.

Story by: Robin Nelson ‘22

William Dean ’23

February 15, 2023 by rnelson

Hometown: Marlboro, New Jersey

Major: Architectural Engineering

Outfit: Squadron 21

Currently a member of Squadron 21, William Dean ’23 also serves as the 2022-2023 Commander of the NROTC Midshipmen Battalion.

On the Quad, Will serves as a Ross Volunteer and is a member of the Corps Marathon team.

Off the Quad, Will is a member of the Texas A&M chapter of the Architectural Engineering Institute and the Society of American Military Engineers.

“The Texas A&M Corps of Cadets has provided me countless opportunities that I would not have been able to experience without the program. From going to Boston to compete in the Boston Marathon, to having the privilege to lead over 300 prospective Naval and Marine Corps Officers, the Corps of Cadets has allowed me to heighten my skills and prepare myself for multiple careers in the future,” Will said of his time in the Corps.

After graduating from Texas A&M, Will plans to commission into the United States Navy and either serve as a Naval Aviator or as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Officer. After his time in the Navy, Will hopes to return to Aggieland to work for the Texas A&M Foundation.

Kendalyn Lytle ’23

January 30, 2023 by rnelson

Hometown: Boerne, Texas

Major: Environmental Engineering

Outfit: A-Company

Originally from A-Company in the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band, Kendalyn Lytle serves as the Infantry Band Commander for the 2022-2023 academic year.

In addition to her role as the Infantry Band Commander, Kendalyn also serves on the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band’s Bugle Rank and as the Executive Officer for the Fish Drill Team.

Off the Quad, Kendalyn enjoys running marathons, baking and Crossfit.

“I’ve gained a lot from my time in the Corps, but the greatest thing that the Corps gave me was my buddy class and the relationships that I have with other Aggie Bandsmen and members of the Fish Drill Team. It was their support and encouragement that helped me make it through both cycles of OCS, and without them I wouldn’t have had the confidence to become the cadet that I am today,” Kendalyn said of her time in the Corps.

After graduating from Texas A&M, Kendalyn plans to commission into the United States Marine Corps, where she hopes to become a fighter pilot. Kendalyn is also looking forward to marrying her high school sweetheart.

Liam Stevens ’23

January 18, 2023 by rnelson

Hometown: Glenwood Springs, Colorado

Major: Statistics with minors in Mathematics & Economics

Outfit: Company G-2

A member of Company G-2, Liam currently serves as the outfit’s Recruiting and Logistics Officer.

As a freshman, Liam was a member of the Fish Drill Team, where he also served as an Advisor during his sophomore year. Liam remains involved with the Fish Drill Team through the Association of Former Fish Drill Team Members as the club’s Social Media Officer.

Off the Quad, Liam is a second year member of the Singing Cadets, where he serves as the Traditions Chairman. Liam is also an active member of the Orthodox Christian Fellowship.

“The Corps of Cadets has been one of the best, if not the best, thing that has happened to my personal growth and development,” Liam said of his time in the Corps.

After graduating from Texas A&M, Liam plans to obtain his masters in statistics or data science. Liam hopes to one day become a political data analyst.

Dawson Richburg ’23

December 15, 2022 by rnelson

Hometown: Katy, Texas

Major: Poultry Science

Outfit: Company E-2

Currently a member of Company E-2, Dawson Richburg ’23 also works as a Research Assistant with Texas A&M’s Poultry Research Facility.

“Being a part of the Corps of Cadets has given me insight into what makes a true leader. I have come to understand that failure is a part of life, and the only thing that matters is how you choose to respond to it. As a cadet, I’ve been able to live the true Aggie tradition and become a part of the Texas A&M spirit,” Dawson said of his time in the Corps.

After graduation, Dawson plans to obtain his Ph.D. in Poultry Breeding and Genetics and one day work in the field of poultry research.