Cadet Monument

The Cadet Monument is a sculpture located in the West Point Cemetery that bears the names and memory of cadets who died during their service. The structure stands in an older section of the cemetery grounds and displays the names of those lost during their training years.

The monument was built in 1818 following the death of a cadet from a cannon accident the year before, marking the beginning of memorial practices at the academy. It was the first honor marker established after the military school was founded.

The monument honors young soldiers who died during their training years and serves as a gathering place for remembrance ceremonies today. It shows how the academy acknowledges and keeps the memory of those lost alive.

The monument is located within the cemetery grounds and is best reached from the main cemetery entrances. Visitors should keep in mind this is an active burial site where respectful behavior is expected.

The monument was named after a single cadet whose tragic death prompted the academy to create its first permanent memorial. This personal connection makes it a special example of how early military institutions honored their losses.

GPS coordinates: 41.40008,-73.96570

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:42