Class of 2026 Valedictorian Clayton Reich Reflects on the MMA Experience

Cadet Clayton Reich ’26 of Phoenix, Arizona, delivered the valedictorian address during Missouri Military Academy’s 2026 Commencement Ceremony on May 16. Speaking before fellow graduates, families, faculty, and guests, Reich reflected on the discipline, brotherhood, and leadership development that shaped the Class of 2026 during their time at MMA.

Good morning, distinguished guests, faculty, staff, families, friends, and most importantly, the graduating Class of 2026.

Standing here today is an incredible honor. Not because of a title, but because I have the privilege of representing a class defined by discipline, resilience, brotherhood, and growth.

When we first arrived at Missouri Military Academy, we came from different backgrounds, different experiences, and different parts of the world. Some of us arrived confident, while others arrived uncertain of what the future would hold. But regardless of how we began, MMA challenged every one of us to become stronger — mentally, physically, and morally.

Over the years, we learned lessons far beyond the classroom. We learned how to lead under pressure, how to persevere through adversity, and how to keep moving forward when things became difficult. We learned that discipline is not punishment — it is preparation. And we learned that leadership is not about rank or recognition, but about service, responsibility, and setting the example for others.

There were long days, demanding expectations, inspections, drills, sleepless nights, and moments when quitting may have seemed easier. Yet those challenges shaped us. They tested our character, strengthened our resolve, and prepared us for the responsibilities ahead.

But perhaps one of the greatest things MMA gave us was brotherhood.

The friendships formed here were built through shared struggles, shared victories, and countless memories we will carry for the rest of our lives. We stood beside one another through success and failure alike, and those bonds are not easily broken.

To the faculty, CLAs, coaches, and staff: thank you for believing in us, challenging us, and refusing to let us settle for less than our potential. Your leadership and guidance helped shape the young men standing here today.

To our families: thank you for your sacrifices, encouragement, patience, and unwavering support. Behind every cadet is a family who believed in him long before he fully believed in himself.

And to the Class of 2026: this moment belongs to all of us. Every cadet here contributed to the legacy of this class through leadership, determination, character, and perseverance.

As we move forward into new chapters of life — whether in college, military service, careers, or other pursuits — we carry with us the values MMA instilled in us: honor, integrity, self-discipline, and respect.

The road ahead will not always be easy. But MMA has prepared us not to seek the easy path, but to meet challenges head-on. We leave this academy not simply as graduates, but as leaders prepared to make a difference wherever life takes us.

Years from now, we may forget the joy of the mess hall food, long inspections, endless drills, and mandatory fun, but we will never forget the lessons learned here, the friendships formed here, and the pride of wearing this uniform.

Class of 2026, today we close one chapter, and another begins. Lead with courage.

Serve with integrity.

Face every challenge with confidence. Never forget where you came from.

And as our BC once said, “You will do well.” I believe we will

Congratulations, Class of 2026. Thank you.