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                         September 27, 2002

'Soldiers' to receive Thayer

WEST POINT -- "The American Soldier" will receive the 2002 Thayer Award in ceremonies here Thursday. Prior to the presentation ceremony, the academy will hold a cadet review in honor of "The American Soldier," 5 p.m., on the Plain. The public is invited to attend the review.

The Thayer Award, established in honor of Col. Sylvanus Thayer, "Father of the Military Academy," is usually presented to an outstanding citizen whose service and accomplishments in the national interest exemplify the Military Academy motto, "Duty, Honor, Country." The Association of Graduates has presented the award annually since 1958.

This year West Point has chosen "The American Soldier" to be honored as best representing these enduring values. By focusing on the accomplishments of American soldiers, both past and present, the award aims to further strengthen cadets’ commitment to and pride in the profession of arms.

This year’s award will also honor some of the nation’s most heroic soldiers. Eleven Medal of Honor recipients who served the nation during World War II and the war in Vietnam will also grace the ceremony as representatives of "The American Soldier."

Gen. Eric K. Shinseki, Chief of Staff, U. S. Army, and Sgt. Maj. of the Army, Jack L. Tilley will accept the award on behalf of "The American Soldier."

Past recipients of the Thayer Award include Dwight D. Eisenhower, Bob Hope, Billy Graham, Clare Boothe Luce, Ronald Reagan, George Bush, Douglas MacArthur, Barbara Jordan, Walter Cronkite and Henry Kissinger.