August 2026: MMA Commemorates the Birthday of Clifton B. Cates, Class of 1910

On August 31, the Missouri Military Academy Corps of Cadets commemorated the birthday of one of our most accomplished alumni, Gen. Clifton B. Cates, Class of 1910 (August 31, 1893 – June 4, 1970), with a special remembrance ceremony honoring his enduring legacy. This highly respected and decorated alumnus served as the 19th commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps from 1948–1951.

Cates led a distinguished military career spanning several major conflicts, including World War I, World War II and the Korean War. During his time as Marine Corps commandant, he played a pivotal role in preserving and strengthening the corps, helping pave the way for the U.S. Marine Corps’ continued growth and prosperity.

Birthday cake honoring Gen. Clifton B. Cates

One of Cates’ most honorable moments came earlier in his career during World War I. In July 1918, Cates was in France leading a platoon within the 96th Company when it was attacked, killing most of the company, including its commander. Cates took over temporary command and, while wounded in the leg and shoulder, scribbled a note to the battalion commander that read:

“I have only two men left out of my company and 20 out of other companies. We need support but it is almost suicidal to try to get here as we are swept by machine gun fire and a constant artillery barrage is upon us. I have no one on my left and only a few on my right. I will hold.”

Those final words — “I will hold” — would come to embody Cates’ courage, determination and unwavering commitment to duty.

Cadet Battalion Commander Emiliano Martinez cuts the birthday cake.

During this annual event, birthday cake is traditionally cut with the sword of a Marine officer as a reminder of Gen. Cates’ legacy and the values he embodied. Following Academy tradition, Cadet Battalion Commander Emiliano Martinez used the sword to cut and present the first piece of cake to the oldest cadet on campus, George Davison ’68.

Cadet Davison then passed the second piece of cake to the youngest cadet present, Cadet Isaac Cruz-Bravo ’32, symbolizing the passing of MMA traditions and legacy from one generation of cadets to the next.

Cadet Battalion Commander Emiliano Martinez '27 presented the first pieces of cake to George Davidson '68, and Cadet Isaac Cruz-Bravo ’32, the youngest cadet present.

More than a century after Gen. Cates walked the halls of Missouri Military Academy, his example of duty, honor and courage continues to inspire the Corps of Cadets. Each year, this tradition reminds our cadets of the legacy they have inherited — and the responsibility they carry forward.

We are proud to honor Gen. Cates and share his story and example to our cadets each year.