What's involved in the West Point Army Commissioning Ceremony?

I'm curious about the ceremony that graduates undergo at West Point. What exactly happens during the commissioning ceremony, and is it a big event for the cadets and their families?

The West Point Commissioning Ceremony is indeed a significant event for the graduating cadets and their loved ones. It's the culminating event of a challenging four years at the United States Military Academy (USMA), which marks the official transition from cadet to second lieutenant in the U.S. Army.

The day usually starts with the Graduation Parade, where the graduating class marches together for their final time. The "Firsties" or seniors, then formally relinquish their leadership positions to an underclassman effectively passing the torch to the next group of leaders.

The actual ceremony typically takes place in Michie Stadium. The graduating cadets sit facing the stage with a backdrop of the Hudson River. After speeches by school officials or outside dignitaries, diplomas are presented to each graduate, typically by the Superintendent. Each graduate is individually announced and walks across the stage to receive their diploma.

Next comes the pinning of second lieutenant bars. This is a deeply personal moment, and usually, family members or mentors are the ones who pin the bars onto the recently graduated cadets. It signifies their official commissioning into the United States Army.

In the most anticipated moment, the newly commissioned officers toss their hats into the air upon the command "Class Dismissed". This is known as the "hat toss" and is followed by a flyover by the U.S. Military Academy's aviation branch.

It's important to remember that West Point has a rich history, and many of the customs observed during the ceremony honor traditions that have existed since the early days of the academy. For the graduating cadets and their families, it's a day filled with pride, joy, and a sense of accomplishment.