On Wednesday, October 2, 2024, qualifying new Missouri Military Academy (MMA) cadets completed the Crucible, one of MMA’s most revered traditions and an important rite of passage.
“I am immensely proud of our cadets for their perseverance and grit throughout the Crucible,” said Missouri Military Academy President Brigadier General Richard V. Geraci, USA (Ret.) “It’s more than a physical test —It’s a defining moment that fosters resilience, determination and unity. By pushing themselves beyond their limits and supporting one another through adversity, they discover that true strength comes from within and from the MMA brotherhood. This experience not only shapes them as cadets but also as leaders ready to face whatever life brings their way.”
The Crucible is a capstone event that every cadet must face, signifying the culmination of their maroon phase training. When they fulfill the maroon phase requirements, cadets earn their coveted hat brass and black shoulder boards, symbols of their official rank as full members of the MMA Corps of Cadets.
The day begins before sunrise with a physical training (PT) test, consisting of push-ups, sit-ups and a one-mile run. Following the PT test, cadets embark on a six-mile hike across MMA’s back campus. At the halfway point, they are required to carry one cadet on a stretcher for the remaining miles — a symbolic act representing the MMA brotherhood, where no cadet is left behind.
After the hike, cadets take on a three-mile obstacle train run, featuring 16 challenges, before moving to Flanagan Field for a paintball battle. This tactical exercise demonstrates their ability to work together as a unit. Next, cadets complete a half-mile rope run and a modified combat fitness test (CFT), modeled after the Marine Corps' CFT, which includes an ammo can lift and a shuttle run.
The final challenge is a boat run and river-crossing exercise in MMA’s indoor swimming pool. Cadets must swim the length of the pool twice while pulling a boat loaded with their gear. Each year, Crucible challenges may vary slightly, but the rigor and significance remain constant.
The Crucible not only tests cadets' physical and mental limits but also teaches them vital lessons. They learn that, at MMA, they are part of a brotherhood that encourages and supports them through shared challenges. They come to realize that with determination and teamwork, they can accomplish anything.
“The looks of elation, pride and accomplishment on their tired, sweaty, camouflage paint-streaked faces summed up more than words could say about this year's Crucible,” said MMA Commandant Col. Tom Pickle. “They motivated each other, carried each other and overcame hardships as a band of brothers. Bravo Zulu!”
Upon completing the Crucible and all maroon phase requirements, cadets are formally recognized at the Passing Through Ceremony during Fall Family Weekend. This time-honored event allows families, loved ones, and friends to take part in pinning cadets with their well-earned hat brass, marking their official transition into the MMA Corps of Cadets.
Special thanks to MMA faculty and staff for their support in making the Crucible a success for the cadets.