Aggies Honor Their Own

April 21 is San Jacinto Day, it's also part of a Texas A&M Tradition.

Aggies first gathered together on June 26, 1883, to live again their college days, the victories and defeats won and lost upon the drill field and in the classroom. By April 21, 1903, this annual gathering had evolved into a celebration of Texas' Independence on San Jacinto Day. These early meetings included field games and banquets, and were a time for Aggies to reflect and celebrate their memories of Aggieland.

"Let every alumni answer a roll call" wrote the former students. It was not until 1922, however, that April 21 became the official day of events for all Aggies, thus, the annual tradition of Muster was born. The March 1923 Texas Aggie urged, 'If there is an A&M man in one-hundred miles of you, you are expected to get together, eat a little, and live over the days you spent at the A&M College of Texas.

Still remembering and honoring the time spent in Aggieland, the tradition of mustering grew in strength, meaning, and spirit. And gradually the Aggie annual meeting spread worldwide.

In 1942 Aggie Muster gained international recognition.

On April l21, 1942, 25 men, led by Maj. Gen. George Moore ('08), mustered during the Japanese Siege of the Philippine island of Corregidor. Knowing that Final Muster might soon be called for them, these Aggies embodied the essence of commitment, dedication, and friendship -- the Aggie Spirit. They risked their lives to honor their beliefs and values. That small group of Aggies on an outpost during World War II inspired what has developed into one of the Aggies greatest traditions.

The next Aggie Muster held on Corregidor was in 1946. Only 3 of that group of 25 were in attendance then.