Each year on September 11th, Army ROTC cadets at the University of Michigan take part in a solemn tradition that reflects both our commitment to service and our deep connection to the university’s history. At dawn, cadets raise the American flag on the iconic Diag—a central and symbolic space known as the beating heart of campus. This isn’t just any flagpole; it’s a converted ship’s mast, honoring the University of Michigan’s legacy of military training that dates back more than a century.
Throughout the day, cadets stand vigil in rotating shifts, maintaining a respectful presence until retreat is taken at sunset. This act of remembrance not only honors those we lost on 9/11 but also reinforces our role as citizen-leaders—visible and engaged in the life of the university. It’s a tradition that speaks to our values of service, sacrifice, and leadership.
Opportunities like this—steeped in purpose and meaning—set Michigan ROTC apart. It’s how we stay rooted in our past while shaping the future, making ourselves an integral part of the campus community and the story of Michigan itself.
