Virginia Military Institute Alumni Credo
This special spread unveils the VMI Alumni Credo—a bold and timeless declaration of the values that define us: Honor, discipline, and purpose. Born from the hearts and hands of alumni, it is more than words; it is a call to live out the highest ideals of the Institute. Accompanying it is the story of its creation and the Code of the Cadet, which echoes through generations as a rallying cry for all who have worn the uniform. Together, they form a living standard—and a foundational pillar of who we are and what we stand for—for every VMI alum and cadet who carries the legacy forward.
We Are VMI
We are the heart of tradition and honor, where courage and integrity are our guiding stars.
We entered through hallowed arches, committed to becoming more than we were and became more than we thought possible.
We chose the uncommon path, transformed by academic, mental, and physical challenges, shaped by discipline, mentored by our upperclassmen, and inspired by the legacy and support of our alumni.
We forge bonds stronger than steel, brothers and sisters united by our shared commitment to excellence and accomplishment and bound by a compelling legacy.
We take pride in those who walked the path before us and respect all who have shared in this extraordinary journey. We honor their memory through our actions, upholding the highest standards of virtue, leadership, scholarship, and service.
We pledge our loyalty to the values of the citizen-soldier, defined by duty, honor, country, and service. We stand resolute in the face of adversity, embodying the spirit of those who came before us.
We push beyond our perceived limits with unwavering determination, knowing that our strength lies not only in our individual might, but also in our unified resolve.
We embrace our calling to serve, to protect, and to lead. With every step we take, we march forward with pride, knowing that we carry the weight of our beloved institution, its traditions, and its future on our shoulders.
We are the future, molded by tradition, ready to take on any obstacle with an unyielding fortitude.
This is our oath, our credo, our purpose, and our promise: To live and lead with courage and integrity, to uphold the legacy of Virginia Military Institute, and to remain steadfast in our pursuit of excellence.
In the bonds, we are VMI.
