BROTHERHOOD, DISCIPLINE, AND PURPOSE: LIFE AS A FORK UNION CADET

At Fork Union Military Academy, cadets become part of a close-knit brotherhood, organized into the Corps of Cadets and divided into five companies—Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta, and Echo. They are expected to uphold values of kindness and respect, reinforced through mandatory Christian chapel services and weekly student assemblies, fostering both personal growth and strong moral character.

THE BROTHERHOOD OF CADETS

At Fork Union Military Academy, cadets form lifelong bonds of friendship built on shared experiences, discipline, and trust. They simply call it a brotherhood.

LEADERSHIP STRUCTURE

The Corps of Cadets follows a structured leadership system that teaches responsibility and teamwork:

  • Battalion Leadership: The Corps' top cadets form the Battalion Staff, led by the Battalion Commander, the highest-ranking cadet.
  • Company Leadership: Each of the five companies—Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta, and Echo—is led by a Company Commander and supporting officers.
  • Platoons & Squads: Companies are divided into platoons of 10-20 cadets, each with a platoon leader, and further into squads, led by squad leaders.

DAILY LIFE & DISCIPLINE

Cadets live in shared rooms, often their first experience being away from home. Their structured daily routine includes:

  • Academic classes 
  • Physical training
  • Military drills
  • Study periods

Each cadet is responsible for keeping their room clean, shining their shoes, and maintaining their uniform. This lifestyle fosters self-discipline, organization, and personal responsibility.

DRILL & ACCOUNTABILITY

Military drill training is a key part of cadet life, reinforcing teamwork and discipline. Achievements are recognized and rewarded, while failure to meet expectations results in demerits and loss of privileges. Cadets receiving demerits must complete Extra Duty (ED), which often includes marching during free time.

This structured environment instills leadership, accountability, and resilience—qualities that define a Fork Union cadet.

HEAR FROM OUR CADETS

Our cadets are the heart of Fork Union Military Academy. Hear firsthand from them about their experiences—how the bonds of brotherhood, leadership opportunities, and disciplined routines have shaped their growth, character, and future. Their stories reflect the true spirit of what it means to be part of this transformative community.