Aggies unite for distinctive tradition

"Former Students of Texas A&M University will assemble in Kilgore, Texas on April 21, 2008 for the annual Texas Aggie Muster in honor of all Texas Aggies who have passed away within the last year," announced Muster Chair Luke Kimbrough, class of 1996.

Various muster activities, including a barbecue dinner, will begin at 7 p.m. at Bodacious Barbecue at the intersection of Highway 42 and I-20. Texas Aggie Muster welcomes all former and current students, their families, and friends of Texas A&M University.

The Texas Aggie Muster tradition spans over a century and will be observed in more than 300 locations around the world. These Muster gatherings are held in many unique places ranging from battleships and foxholes during World War II to ballrooms and steakhouses today. Over the years, Aggie Muster has grown to be one of Texas A&M's most revered traditions. Muster honors the memory of A&M men and women whose death prevents them from answering Roll Call at this year's Muster. The Roll Call is a roster compiled of all former and current students who have died over the past year. As each name is called, a friend or family member will answer "Here!" symbolizing that their memory lives on in the hearts of Aggies everywhere. Muster is more than just a ceremony; it is also a way for Aggies to renew, each year, the loyalty and unity which constitute the foundation of their friendship for each other and love and devotion for their school. This year the Deep East Texas Muster will honor three local Aggies who passed away and five Aggie Service Men who gave their lives in the line of duty.

For more information regarding the Texas Aggie Muster held in Gregg County, please contact Kimbrough at (903) 295-7349, or by email at luke96@aggienetwork. com. Tickets are $15.00 for adults, and are free for children 5 and under. Cost includes a barbecue dinner provided by Bodacious Barbecue. Tickets may be purchased online at www.deepeasttexasaggies.com.

Additional information about Texas Aggie Muster and other Texas A&M Traditions and Programs can be obtained by contacting The Association of Former Students at (979) 845- 7514 or by visiting their website at www.AggieNetwork.com.