By Jane Anderson, WPAOG Staff
On Saturday, October 17, more than 1,000 guests enjoyed pre- and post-Homecoming tailgates that bookended the Black Knights’ 56-24 victory over Florida Atlantic at Michie Stadium Preserved by USAA.
Kicking off the beautiful fall day, WPAOG hosted between 300 and 400 guests at the Huddle Up & HOOAH! Block Party from 9am to noon at Herbert Alumni Center. Army Football legends Liam and Kalib Fortner, both from the Class of 2026, arrived for a Meet & Greet.
The Fortner brothers distinguished themselves as exceptional cadets, leaders, teammates, and football players, leaving their mark through dedication, toughness, an incredible work ethic, and memorable on-field performances. Most Valuable Player in the 2023 Army-Navy Game and 2025 team captain, Kalib Fortner was called “one of the greatest linebackers in Army Football history” when Rich DeMarco presented him with the Army Team’s Most Valuable Player award for the 2025 season. And Liam, a rare three-year starter at wide receiver, was considered one of the premier perimeter blockers in the entire country during his Black Knight career. On the field, Liam earned the nickname “the Assassin.”
The brothers tossed autographed mini footballs and Mardi Gras-esque beads from the Great Hall balcony to lucky guests. The West Point Spirit Band arrived soon after to drum up the pre-game spirit, and Skywalker from K104 provided DJ entertainment afterward along with a Harry Styles concert-ticket giveaway.
Food and drinks were available from vendors including All Belgium Waffles, Freefall Sangria, Liquid Fables, Main Course, and Busy Bee Bakery.
After the Black Knights trounced Florida Atlantic, more than 1,000 guests made their way to Buffalo Soldier Field for “Float the MOAT (Mother of All Tailgates)” from 3-6 pm. Reunion classes from 2006, 2011, 2016, and 2021 joined the tailgate to celebrate Army’s win. Hungry tailgaters enjoyed burgers, hot dogs, barbecue chicken, kettle chips, assorted cookies, and ice cream. In addition to an open bar for adults, hot chocolate, water, and soda were available, served in branded tailgate cups with the class reunion years on one side and an illustration of an Army mule floating on a life preserver on the other. A football-themed bouncy house-obstacle course kept little ones busy while adults mingled and enjoyed the picturesque autumn views of West Point.
