Contact: Kawana McGough, Division of Development and Alumni Engagement
Tuskegee University celebrated the legacy, leadership, and service of its distinguished military alumni during the 2025 Tuskegee University ROTC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Banquet. The ceremony recognized eight exceptional officers whose careers across the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force exemplify the university’s enduring commitment to service, courage, and excellence.
Established in 2016, the Tuskegee University ROTC Hall of Fame honors graduates who have demonstrated exemplary military achievement, national leadership, and continued support of Tuskegee University. The Hall of Fame reflects the university’s historic role in shaping military leaders—beginning with the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen and extending through generations of officers who have served across the world.
“The TU ROTC Hall of Fame stands as a living tribute to officers whose careers embody the highest standards of military service. We are proud to continue this tradition of recognizing those whose unwavering dedication, duty, honor, and integrity have strengthened our nation and elevated the Tuskegee legacy,” said Col.(R) Anthony C. Aiken ’72, ’75, Founder and Chairman of the TU ROTC Hall of Fame.
This year’s induction class includes the following honorees:
2025 ROTC HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
U.S. ARMY
- Col. (R) Cleophus Thomas, Jr., ’92
- Lt. Col. (R) Demetrius L. Jackson, ’90
- Lt. Col. (R) James E. Lucas’68, ’81
- Lt. Col. (R) Robin D. Williams, ’89
- Maj. (R) William Watson, ’65 (Honorary Inductee)
U.S. AIR FORCE
- Col. (R) Elvert L. Gardner, ’93
- Col. (R) Legand L. Burge, Jr. (Honorary Inductee)
- Col. (R) William E. Woods, ’73
The ceremony featured the Presentation of Colors by the Tuskegee University Joint ROTC Color Guard, historical reflections from Hall of Fame leadership, and a keynote address delivered by Dr. Mark A. Brown ’86, President & CEO of Tuskegee University, retired U.S. Air Force Major General, and a Charter Member of the ROTC Hall of Fame.
“As a university built on service, innovation, and the courage to lead, Tuskegee continues to shape men and women who serve with distinction,” said Dr. Brown. “We honor those who not only carried forward the Tuskegee legacy—but expanded it, strengthened it, and embodied it in their service to our nation.”
Following the induction ceremony, guests gathered for a reception celebrating the honorees, their families, and their unwavering commitment to Mother Tuskegee.
Watch the Full Ceremony:
2025 ROTC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony – Part I
https://youtu.be/0vKlostuBxU
2025 ROTC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony – Part II
https://youtu.be/1kX0-HK2_eU
© 2025 Tuskegee University
