The Summerall Guards

Summerall Guard tradition states that their exhibition drill, known as the "Citadel Series", has remained virtually unchanged since 1932.

The drill is silent and automatic except for an occasional "sound off" in unison by members of the group.

[2][3] The Summerall Guards drill exclusively with the M1903 Springfield rifle with an attached parade chrome-plated bayonet.

[citation needed] The unit has performed nationally at Disney World, the Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C., Mardi Gras in New Orleans, numerous National Football League sanctioned games, and St. Patrick's Day parade in Savannah, Georgia.

[6] The Guards also frequently perform on the campus grounds and can be seen free of charge by the public during major events.

[citation needed] Members who hold leadership positions within the Guards, depending on their position, are determined by both the Summerall Guards themselves and The Citadel's administration - by a meeting mirroring a standard military promotion board.

He is responsible for the issuing of the platoon's M1903 Springfield rifles and chrome-plated parade bayonets, as well as any other required equipment to the members.

The Supply Sergeant falls into the formation during performances and wears the standard dress uniform.

The front guide is responsible for directing the platoon's forward movement during performances and especially during marching parades.

He is responsible for setting the unit's signature slow, high-step pace and is one of the tallest members of the platoon.

Three accouterments are currently authorized at The Citadel to distinguish current Summerall Guards from other cadets while wearing many of the school's various uniforms: Each year, aspiring 2nd class cadets (Junior class) volunteer for a rigorous training and evaluation process that starts Parents' Weekend in October and goes until Corps Day in March, known as Bond Volunteer Aspirant (BVA) training.

It is their chance to choose the cadets that will replace their positions within the platoon and subsequently carry on the tradition to the next year.