Bill Filed to Designate Missouri Military Academy as the Official Military Academy of the State of Missouri

A bill filed in the Missouri House of Representatives—HB 2307—proposes to designate Missouri Military Academy (MMA), located in Mexico, Missouri, as the Official Military Academy of the State of Missouri.

Feature photo, above: The cadet battalion commander and staff salute as they march in formation during a pass in review, demonstrating discipline, pride, precision and teamwork, as MMA President Brigadier General Richard V. Geraci, USA (Ret), inspects the corps of cadets.

The legislation, introduced on December 10, 2025 by Rep. Kent Haden, would add Section 10.283 to Missouri Revised Statutes. If enacted, the statute would read: “Missouri Military Academy in the city of Mexico is selected for and shall be known as the official military academy of the state of Missouri.”

Founded in 1889 with support from the local Mexico, Mo., community, Missouri Military Academy educates boys in grades 7 through 12, plus a postgraduate year, helping them take command of their lives through its military educational model.

“For generations, Missouri Military Academy has contributed to the educational, civic and economic fabric of our state,” said Academy President Brigadier General Richard V. Geraci, USA (Ret). “HB 2307 affirms Missouri’s commitment to developing future leaders through structured, disciplined and demanding college- and career-focused education. We are grateful for this support and remain committed to upholding the values of integrity, selfless service, hard work and leadership that reflect the character and spirit of Missouri.”

Educational Impact Across Missouri, the Nation and the World

MMA’s educational model emphasizes a foundational set of core values — academic excellence, duty, honor, respect, integrity, loyalty, courage, selfless service and leadership — staying true to its motto of “Love, Honor, Truth.” These values shape the Academy’s 360° Education, a comprehensive system integrating rigorous academics, character development, physical fitness, emotional wellness, leadership training and opportunities for personal growth.

MMA Senior Army Instructor MAJ Wayne Welander, USA (Ret), promotes high school senior Cadet Jesus Robinson during the fall 2025 semester, demonstrating MMA’s culture of achievement, where earned rank and recognition inspire younger cadets to rise to their full potential.

This approach provides families in Missouri, across the United States and around the world with a school choice that is distinct and increasingly in demand, with a proven record of success.

MMA draws middle school and high school cadets from Missouri communities, from across the nation and from multiple international countries each year. This dynamic enrollment elevates Missouri’s visibility on the global stage and fosters cross-cultural understanding and awareness and respect and consideration for others.

Mason Brooks '25 receives the Dr. James C. Olson Award, donated by the former University of Missouri president, from Academic Dean Elizabeth Clement during May 2025 commencement. This award is annually given to the cadet with the highest scholarship, the valedictorian. Brooks is now attending the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.

The Academy maintains a 100% graduation rate for senior cadets, requiring every graduate to earn acceptance into at least two colleges, universities or post-graduate career-training programs. These expectations ensure cadets continue on a strong trajectory of confidence, establishing goals, academic growth, development of life skills and professional achievement.

Strengthening Missouri Through Service, Partnerships and Tradition

MMA’s long-standing partnerships with veterans’ organizations, the Missouri National Guard, civic leaders and educational institutions provide meaningful opportunities for service and leadership development. These collaborations strengthen communities in Missouri and reinforce values that extend far beyond the state, benefiting alumni who go on to lead in collegiate settings, professional fields and government and military service across the country and internationally.

MMA cadets unfurl a World War II-era 48-star Navy standard flag April 22, 2024, in the Thomas Hart Benton Gallery at the Missouri State Capitol during a ceremony honoring the 200 Missouri soldiers who died during Exercise Tiger, marking the 80th anniversary of the tragic pre-D-Day training exercise. Cadets were invited to participate by the United States Exercise Tiger Foundation.

MMA is one of the select remaining military academies in the United States and the only one still operating in Missouri following the closures of the state’s other historic institutions, including Kemper Military School and College and Wentworth Military Academy. Recognizing the importance of preserving the heritage of these longtime institutions, MMA has actively partnered with Kemper and Wentworth alumni to ensure their storied traditions, values and contributions endure. Through these partnerships, the Academy serves as a unifying steward of Missouri’s military-school legacy.

HB 2307 will proceed through the Missouri House of Representatives’ legislative process when the General Assembly convenes in January 2026. If you are a Missouri resident and would like to show your support for this bill, please contact your local representative. To find your representative's contact information, visit the Missouri House of Representatives' website and enter your address and city in "Find Your Representative."