Corps of Cadets Shines in Inauguration Parade

In keeping with tradition, VMI took part in the inauguration of Abigail Spanberger, the 75th governor of Virginia, in Richmond Jan. 17, 2026. The theme of the inauguration was “United for Virginia’s Future.” As governor, Spanberger became the first female commander in chief of the VMI Corps of Cadets.

While snow flurried before sunrise on the 17th, 28 buses loaded with cadets, uniforms, weapons, and musical instruments pulled away from VMI and headed to the state capital. A small group of cadets served as ushers for the swearing-in ceremony at noon. The parade immediately followed.

The Corps appeared as the second group in the lineup and captivated the large group of spectators gathered along Capitol Square as they marched with precision and polish. The Regimental Band played the “VMI Spirit,” VMI’s fight song, then completed a musical handoff to the Pipe Band, who played “Shenandoah,” a song closely associated with VMI.

As the cadets passed Spanberger, the command of “eyes right” was given, instructing the cadets to turn their heads and eyes 45 degrees to the right as a ceremonial salute to the governor. Farther back in the procession, VMI’s mascot, Moe the kangaroo, charmed the crowd when he appeared with 11 other Virginia public university mascots.

To prepare for the flawless presentation VMI is renowned for, the Corps returned 3 days early from winter furlough to get haircuts, inspect uniforms, distribute rifles and sabers, rehearse music, and carry out practice parades. During those practices, cadets made multiple circuits down Letcher Avenue, across the Parade Ground, and back up to barracks. They rehearsed their “eyes right” to the George C. Marshall statue.

Devin Auzenne ’26, regimental commander, said it was a privilege to lead the cadets in the parade. “It is fulfilling to prepare the Corps, then experience the well-executed performance, and know the entire Commonwealth was able to witness it,” said Auzenne. “Participating in the parade is a representation not only of the Institute’s values, such as peaceful transition of power and support of the newly elected commander in chief, but also a reminder that the Institute is staying true to its promise of developing leaders of character who go on to serve the Commonwealth and nation after graduation.”

Col. Lawrence Havird ’90, commandant of cadets, who accompanied the Corps to the inauguration, said the cadets were honored to participate in the transition of governance from Gov. Glenn Youngkin to Spanberger.

“The Corps of Cadets took pride in the opportunity to showcase its military precision and discipline to their new commander in chief. We look forward to Governor Spanberger visiting post sometime soon so she can see firsthand how the VMI mission benefits the Commonwealth of Virginia and why the Institute is such a special place,” Havird said.

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