Texas A&M Corps Commandant Transitioning to Serve University President
BRYAN, Texas
– Monday morning marked a significant transition within the ranks of Texas A&M University’s Corps of Cadets when the commandant announced he would be taking on a new role within Aggieland. Commandant Brigadier General Patrick R. Michaelis will leave his current post to serve as a special assistant to Texas A&M President General Mark Welsh III.
Transitioning to a New Role
Contrary to initial reports that incorrectly stated Gen. Michaelis was retiring, the General is, in fact, moving onto a different role within the University. After dedicating 30 years to the US Army and two years to the position of Commandant, Michaelis cited excitement about this new opportunity to serve the community.
Michaelis expressed his deep-felt connection to the Corps of Cadets in a statement, “One of the great loves of my life is the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets. Its focus on developing leaders of character for the global challenges of tomorrow demands that we continue to advance as we preserve what makes Aggieland so unique.”
Gratitude and Support
As General Michaelis prepares for this transition, Texas A&M President, Gen. Welsh, extends a heartfelt thank you for his dedication. The President lauded Michaelis’s efforts in enhancing leadership training and the overall Corps experience while also enlarging the Corps’ reach through recruitment initiatives.
In the words of Gen. Welsh, “I extend my deepest gratitude and appreciation to General Michaelis for his service to Texas A&M University and the Corps of Cadets. He worked tirelessly to improve leadership training and the overall Corps experience while also expanding the reach of the Corps through expanded recruitment efforts.”
Interim Commandant
Michaelis will step down from his current position as Commandant on Monday. Until a permanent commandant is appointed, retired US Air Force Lieutenant Gen. Loyd S. “Chip” Utterback will take over the responsibility.
Looking Forward
The news of General Patrick R. Michaelis’s transition was met with notes of appreciation and well wishes. As the University gears up for this administrative change, the community stands united in its commitment to continue providing invaluable leadership experiences for the Corps of Cadets.
Evidently, the spirit of Aggieland remains undeterred. The unwavering dedication of these leaders and their commitment to fostering leadership for tomorrow’s challenges are sure to continue lighting the path for Texas A&M University’s Corps of Cadets.
Serving the University President
As Michaelis readies himself to assist President General Mark Welsh III, his experience and dedication in leadership roles are sure to make significant contributions. The university community, along with the Corps of Cadets, is set to witness exciting new developments under the guidance of these remarkable leaders.
