The May 2024 Change of Command Ceremony/Graduation Parade is currently scheduled for Tuesday, May 14 at 2 p.m., VMI Parade

Traditionally held two days before graduation, the Change of Command Parade showcases VMI’s regimental and class system as the graduating class passes the mantle of Corps leadership to the rising 1st class.

During the parade, the outgoing regimental commander passes the regimental colors over to the Superintendent, who then hands them to the incoming Regimental Commander.

The outgoing Regimental Commander’s name is inscribed on a bronze plaque in barracks that same day. Battalion and company Commanders also hand over leadership to the rising 1st Class during the parade, while the rest of the graduating class enjoys their first parade as spectators.

This year, outgoing Regimental Commander Mark Shelton ’24 will hand the colors to Maj. Gen. Cedric T. Wins ’85, Superintendent, who will then hand them to next year’s Regimental Commander, Brian M. Pritchard '25.