U.S. Military Academy Graduation U.S. Military Academy Graduation Breadcrumb milestones and traditions firstie milestones graduation Cadet Journey MENU Leadership Development Cadet Life Cadet Support Milestones and Traditions Cadet Community The Journey Continues A Week of CelebrationGraduation at the U.S. Military Academy entails more than one ceremony on a single day. Graduation Week and Commencement are filled with events to recognize senior cadets for 47 months of hard work. In their last week before becoming commissioned officers, cadets engage in a number of events and festivities. The graduating class honors the Long Gray Line with an Alumni Wreath-Laying Ceremony and Cadet Review, celebrates cadet company achievements, are recognized at Regimental Superintendent’s Receptions and Academic department awards ceremonies, and attends a banquet. In between these events, First Class Cadets pack, plan post-graduation leave, and visit with classmates who have shared their experiences over the past four years. The week culminates at Commencement in Michie Stadium when the Cadet First Captain orders, “Class Dismissed!” and the graduating class tosses their white hats high into the air in celebration of their accomplishment. Honoring the Long Gray Line West Point graduation has a long and storied history dating back to the early 19th century. Originally, ceremonies were simple affairs, but over time they evolved into the multi-day Graduation Week we know today. Traditions such as honoring the Long Gray Line, recognizing academic and regimental achievements, and the iconic tossing of the white hats emerged to celebrate cadets’ transition from students to commissioned officers, reflecting the Academy’s enduring commitment to leadership, service, and excellence. Learn more about the history of the diploma View past commencement speakers Learn more about pictorial postmarks A Legacy of Graduation Traditions Graduation at the United States Military Academy, once called June Week, is a time-honored celebration of achievement, leadership, and service. The week is filled with ceremonies that honor both the individual and the Long Gray Line. Cadets participate in the Alumni Wreath-Laying and Cadet Review, while regimental and academic awards recognize dedication and excellence. The week culminates in the Graduation Parade and Banquet, where cadets officially transition from students to commissioned officers, marking the proud continuation of West Point’s centuries-old traditions. Learn more about the 50-year affiliation program Learn more about the USMA class ring Graduation Week Activities Wreath-Laying CeremonyA formal tribute in which returning graduates place a wreath at the statue of Sylvanus Thayer to honor fallen classmates.View Wreath-Laying Ceremony photos on Flickr Alumni ReviewA ceremonial parade in which the Corps of Cadets marches on the Plain to honor returning alumni, celebrating their service.View Alumni Review photos on Flickr Distinguished Graduate AwardAn honor presented to alumni whose exceptional service and career achievements exemplify the academy’s ideals of duty, honor, and country.View Distinguished Graduate Award photos on Flickr Superintendent's ReceptionA formal gathering where the Superintendent welcomes and congratulates graduating cadets and their families.View Superintendent's Reception photos on Flickr Superintendent's AwardsAwards presented to cadets who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, leadership, and overall excellence at West Point.View Superintendent's Awards photos on Flickr Graduation BanquetA formal dinner where cadets, families, and academy leaders celebrate the achievements of the graduating class. Upcoming Graduation DatesClass YearGraduation DateClass of 2026May 23, 2026Class of 2027May 22, 2027Class of 2028May 20, 2028 Resources for Parents As your cadet approaches graduation, we want to ensure families have everything they need to navigate this exciting moment with confidence. Explore the resource below for schedules, planning tips, and important academy guidance. View the Gateway for Parents page Resources for Visitors Visitors are an important part of the West Point community, especially during the excitement of graduation. The resource below offers essential information to help you plan your trip and make the most of your visit. View the Gateway for Visitors page The Journey Continues Graduation marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of an even greater mission for our new leaders. The resources below highlight the opportunities, support, and next steps awaiting them beyond West Point. Learn about life after the academy