Earning the title Summerall Guard is one of the highest honors that can be achieved by a member of the South Carolina Corps of Cadets at The Citadel.

Consisting of 61 members, the Summerall Guards were chosen for their physical stamina and drill proficiency.

The platoon’s purpose is to exemplify, through a unique series of movements based on the old German close-order drill, the exactness and thoroughness with which a cadet is trained.

Andrew Griles, of Keysville, was among cadets selected to the Class of 2017 Summerall Guards.

The platoon is named for Gen. Charles P. Summerall, former chief of staff of the U.S. Army and Citadel president from 1931 until 1953.