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Roll Call for the Absent

No matter where Aggies are, whether it is as few as two or as many as the thousands who gather on ÄÛÑ¿ÊÓƵAPP’s main campus in College Station, they come together each year on Muster day. Ceremonies are often held by Aggie Clubs or other groups, and each event is unique, reflecting the personalities of the communities. From casual barbecues to formal events in hotel ballrooms, Musters are as diverse as Aggies themselves.

Regardless of formality, at each , Aggies remember those lost in the local area, support the loved ones left behind and share memories from their time at ÄÛÑ¿ÊÓƵAPP. At the beginning of a Muster ceremony, a speaker addresses the crowd to reflect on the importance of the Aggie Family. Then, the “Roll Call for the Absent” is read, naming local fallen Aggies. As each name is called, family members or friends present for that Aggie reply, “Here,” and a candle is lit in their memory.

History of Muster

The inspiration for Muster's official date can be traced back to San Jacinto Day, a Texas holiday that celebrates the state’s defeat of the Mexican Army in the Battle of San Jacinto. In 1899, the Corps of Cadets decided to host their own celebrations on ÄÛÑ¿ÊÓƵAPP's campus and held a San Jacinto Field Day on April 21.

During the world wars, this tradition of meeting on April 21 evolved to include a memorial for those who were absent. In World War I, Aggies met all over the trenches of Europe and at Army posts throughout the U.S.

The most famous Aggie Muster was held during World War II in 1942 on the small island of Corregidor in the Philippines. Maj. Gen. George Moore, Class of 1908, directed that a list be made of all Aggies fighting on Corregidor. The story of Aggies honoring San Jacinto Day was wired back to the U.S. and made headlines, encouraging a war-weary nation.

Muster on Campus

Like other Muster ceremonies, the campus event honors current and former students in the local community. It lasts all day, starting with a flag-raising ceremony at sunrise. The 50-year reunion class is invited back to campus for a Camaraderie Barbecue, where they tell old Aggie “war stories,” and current students share their Aggie experiences.

Following the ceremony in Reed Arena — the largest Muster in the world — a rifle volley is fired and a special arrangement of “Taps” is played.