From the VMI Office of Communications and Marketing:
LEXINGTON, Va., March 5, 2008 – Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates will deliver the commencement address to Virginia Military Institute’s graduating cadets on May 16. The commencement exercise is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. in Cameron Hall.
“The Class of 2008 is honored to have Secretary Gates as our commencement speaker,” said class president Cadet Jason L. Webb of Bowie, Md. “His acceptance of our invitation means so much to our class, and particularly the commissioning graduates that will soon be serving in harm’s way.” Webb said the members of the class appreciate the obligations they will assume upon graduation. The fact that Secretary Gates is a major national leader makes him an appropriate speaker for graduates who will pursue careers of leadership in the military and civilian sectors.
