MCV Class '26 Earns Their Norwich Rings in Time-Honored Ceremony

The Norwich University Military College of Vermont (MCV) Class ’26  proudly received their MCV Class Rings in a tradition-filled ceremony at Charles A. Plumley Armory on March 27. Planned and executed by the MCV Class Ring Committee, the event honored the cadets' perseverance and commitment to the Norwich values of leadership and service.  

"Serving as chairman of the MCV 2026 Ring Committee has been the greatest honor ever bestowed on me at Norwich University," said Cadet Link Houldsworth '26, an international studies major from Middleton, MD. "I realized that Norwich is not just a place but a state of mind. The ring symbolizes so much more than reaching another milestone in life. It symbolizes the unity and values held by the institution."

The evening remarks opened by LtGen John Broadmeadow, 25th President of Norwich University, Class ’83, extending congratulations to the class. He commented that his class picked up their rings at their mailbox and that the ring, Junior Weekend Ball, and related events were the highlights. He emphasized the Norwich ring bonds all classes and lifestyles.

The featured speaker for the evening was Captain William Conroy, Marine Officer Instructor for Norwich's Naval ROTC battalion and member of the Norwich Bicentennial Class ’19. Reflecting on the honor of addressing the cadets, Conroy stated, "Speaking at this ceremony is a privilege, not only because of my deep connection to Norwich but because I know firsthand the significance this ring holds. It represents the hard work, sacrifice, and commitment each cadet has demonstrated to earn it."

He also shared his thoughts on what he hoped the Class ’26 would remember about their rings: "This ring is more than just a piece of metal. It is a symbol of the brotherhood and sisterhood you have formed here, a constant reminder that wherever you go, you carry Norwich with you. Let it serve as a reminder of your resilience, your duty, and the high standards you now represent."

Several solemn and meaningful traditions marked the evening. The posting of our National Colors prompted our National Anthem, which was performed with bagpipes by Cadet Staff Sergeant Aidan McPhillips, a criminal justice major from Delmar, NY. His excellent rendition of our Star Spangled Banner preceded several formal toasts presented by cadets and alumni, first to the United States of America, all the service branches, and last to the Norwich Ring! A tribute to Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action reminded all the sacrifices made by service members and the enduring responsibility of our citizens never to forget.

Over a dozen MCV Class ’24 former cadre returned and joined several MCV Class ’25 members who had the honor to present the Norwich ring to the twelve original platoons. The presentation is confidential but accompanied by darkness, music, and cannon fire.

An elated ring recipient, Cadet Sergeant First Class Cassandra Olson, a nursing major from Phillipston, MA, expressed, "I am now not just a Norwich cadet but an upperclassman nearing the end of my time here—a key leader in the Corps, one step closer to graduation and commissioning. My ring is more than a symbol of my time at Norwich; it embodies the accomplishments, lessons, and resilience that have defined my path."

The passing of a ring torch and a gold ingot between the chairs of the Class of 2025, 2026, and 2027 MCV Ring Committees symbolized the unbroken chain of leadership responsibility, commitment, and excellence that each new ring committee inherits. The gold ingot was a precious piece of gold forged on the stage of Mack Hall Auditorium at the 2nd Annual Bonds of Gold Legacy Ring Melt during Homecoming 2025 where five Norwich alumni donated their Norwich ring to be melted with the factory gold to forge the MCV Class ’27 rings.

The ceremony concluded with all alumni present gathered on stage as Captain Conroy led the singing of Norwich Forever, and the benediction was the reciting of the Cadet Prayer authored by NU Chaplain Reverand William Wick, Class ’05 honorary alumnus. Class ’26 Ring Committee Member Cadet Master Sergeant Dan Inglee, a political science major from Arvado, CO, masterfully served as master of ceremonies.  

For the MCV Class ’26, the ring represents more than tradition—it is a testament to their journey, unity, and lifelong connection to their Norwich and generational bond. Congratulations to the newest ring bearers as they continue to uphold the values and legacy of the Military College of Vermont.