Things Only Citadel Knobs Understand After Recognition Day

Recognition Day is a momentous occasion in the life of a knob. It means the end for rigid formations, walking in single file at breakneck speed and the highly regimented way of life that is The Citadel's Fourth-Class System: the toughest college military training system in the country.

1. Learning your friends' faces after seeing only the backs of their heads all year.

Russell K. Pace

That glorious moment when "Freckle Behind Ear" finally becomes "Steve."

2. How excited you are to need a comb.

Russell K. Pace

And you've never seen such beauty built up in a shower drain!

3. How much longer it takes to get to Capers when not knobby walking.

Russell K. Pace

Or really anywhere on campus.

4. Realizing how much you appreciate using condiments on your food.

"I WILL DRINK THIS KETCHUP RIGHT NOW."

5. Getting to see the front of the barracks for the first time.

Russell K. Pace

Well, it definitely didn't FEEL like you were living in a castle.

6. Avoiding the gutter on the Avenue of Remembrance at all costs.

Russell K. Pace

Going out of your way definitely beats going out of your mind.

7. Learning your cadre sergeant actually has a heart.

Hug it out, guys.

8. It's OK to sit back in your chair in the mess hall and eat.

Russell K. Pace

Relax and stay a while...you can even get more water!

9. It's not the end of the world if you get a stain on your duty uniform.

Russell K. Pace / RUSS PACE

Pass the Tide pen!

10. Actually looking forward to parade next year!

Russell K. Pace

Ha, just kidding.