Since 1977, the Henry O. Flipper Award is given every February during Black History Month and honors the legacy of LT Henry O. Flipper, the first African American to graduate from West Point in 1877. Each year, the award recognizes a firstie who has demonstrated the highest qualities of leadership, self-discipline, and perseverance in the face of adversity.

CDT Teryon Lowery ’24 is this year’s Flipper Award recipient. USMA hosted the annual Henry O. Flipper Commemoration Dinner in the Cadet Mess in Washington Hall on February 15. MSG (R) Cedric King presided as the guest speaker for the ceremony.

CDT Teryon Lowery’s journey to receiving the distinguished Flipper Award is a testament to his resilience and commitment to service. Despite early challenges caring for his autistic brothers, Teryon excelled as an athlete, earned a spot at Dickinson College for track and field, and later enlisted in the Army to support his family during his mother’s battle with breast cancer. At Fort Bliss, he earned two Army Achievement Medals for acts of heroism and peer support.

Undeterred by obstacles, Lowery pursued admission to West Point and served on the COVID Response team during the pandemic, demonstrating his adaptability and dedication to duty. CDT Lowery’s story embodies resilience, strength, and leadership, serving as an inspiration to others. His lasting impact at the Academy reflects his dedication and support for all.

Excerpt and image taken from https://www.facebook.com/WestPointUSMA/.