By Erika Norton, WPAOG Senior Multimedia Journalist

The West Point Society of Pikes Peak brought together generations of the Long Gray Line to celebrate its annual Founders Day in March, an event that honors the enduring legacy of the U.S. Military Academy, while highlighting the shared experiences that unite graduates across decades. Held in Colorado Springs, the evening blended tradition, reflection, and camaraderie—with remarks from the youngest graduate in attendance, 2LT Sidoni Adarkwah ’25.

A 2025 West Point graduate and current maintenance platoon leader at Fort Carson, Adarkwah delivered a speech reflecting on her upbringing, her parents—both graduates of the Class of 1993—and shaped by the influence of her older brothers.

She also offered a glimpse into her West Point experience, noting that while technology and aspects of cadet life have evolved, other aspects remain unchanged. 

“In the last 286 days since graduation, my class has celebrated many marriages and engagements, enjoyed our time at BOLC, and deployed to combat zones,” Adarkwah said. “While it’s easy to look back and laugh at all the things of West Point, I know that my classmates and I are prepared to lead America’s sons and daughters.”

For Adarkwah, the event was equally meaningful off the stage. Attending her first Founders Day away from West Point, she described the experience as “very fun” and appreciated the opportunity to connect with graduates from across the decades. 

Though she was the only representative from the Class of 2025, she was struck by the visible strength of the Long Gray Line. 

“Seeing so many old classmates who did BEAST together in the 60’s and are now still friends made me excited to maintain those connections with my friends too,” Adarkwah said. “West Point truly creates lifelong friendships.”

One particularly memorable conversation came during dinner, when Adarkwah spoke with a retired Apache pilot about aerial gunnery. Having recently completed her own training, she was surprised to learn how similar the experience remains across generations—another testament to the consistency of Army training and culture.

The evening also highlighted the breadth of the West Point community, from its youngest to its most senior members. The oldest graduate in attendance, Brig. Gen. (R) Chuck Cabell, ’58, USAF, represented more than six decades of service and connection to the Academy.

Despite the generational differences, Adarkwah reinforced the Academy’s enduring role in preparing leaders of character for the nation, emphasizing a common thread that binds all graduates.  

“We may not have had it as hard as you all did,” Adarkwah said, “but one thing remains true—when duty calls, we are ready.” 

(Photos courtesy of Alex Werden ’18)