Fork Union Military Academy proudly celebrated one of its most cherished traditions on Saturday, April 26, presenting 15 cadets with their official Class Rings during the Academy’s historic Ring Ceremony.

The Ring Ceremony is a meaningful milestone for cadets, symbolizing the culmination of their hard work, discipline, and personal growth during their time at Fork Union. Receiving the class ring marks not only academic and leadership achievements but also a lifelong bond with the thousands of alumni who have come before them.

The design of the FUMA ring has evolved over the years, often customized to reflect the preferences of each graduating class. Cadets select the stone that best represents them with selections that include red (ruby), blue (sapphire), black (onyx), green (emerald), and clear (quartz). The tradition dates back to 1912, when the original FUMA ring featured an oval gold plate in place of a stone, engraved with the Latin phrase Veni, Vidi, Vici ("I came, I saw, I conquered").

Each ring bears the year of graduation engraved on its sides, and around the edge, the words Fork Union Military Academy encircle the proud symbol of accomplishment.

The significance of wearing the FUMA ring is profound. Much like rings that symbolize marriage, authority, or enduring friendship, the FUMA ring represents a major life achievement, the successful completion of a rigorous academic and leadership journey at one of the nation's premier military preparatory schools. It also serves as a fraternal symbol, connecting its wearer to the brotherhood of FUMA cadets who share memories of camaraderie, perseverance, and pride.

For the cadets who placed their rings on their hands for the first time this weekend, it was an exhilarating moment, a tangible reminder of how far they have come and the bright future that lies ahead.

Congratulations to all the class ring recipients!