Reveille, affectionately known as the “First Lady of Aggieland,” is more than just a mascot to Texas A&M University — she is a beloved tradition, a symbol of school pride, and a living legend among Aggies. Her legacy has spanned nearly a century and continues to grow stronger with each new generation of students.
The widely accepted origin story of Reveille dates back to January 1931. According to the tale, a group of cadets found a small, injured mixed-breed dog on the side of the road while returning to campus. They brought her back to school, nursed her to health, and she soon became a fixture around campus.
The name “Reveille” was reportedly given to the dog after she barked when the bugler sounded the morning wake-up call — also known as reveille — the next day. From that point forward, the name stuck, and the dog became an unofficial mascot and a cherished part of Aggie life.
Reveille I served as the university’s mascot until her passing in 1944. Her memory is preserved on campus, where she is buried alongside the other passed mascots at the north end of Kyle Field. These graves face the scoreboard so that, in true Aggie fashion, they can always keep an eye on the game.
Before Reveille II was named, several other unofficial mascots made brief appearances. These included dogs affectionately named Tripod, Spot, and Ranger. Though they were not officially recognized, they helped fill the gap and continued the tradition of canine companionship on campus.
Reveille II, a Shetland Sheepdog, was donated by a Texas A&M graduate and took on mascot duties in 1952. She brought with her a renewed sense of tradition and spirit. Though not a Rough Collie like most of her successors, she was loved and respected as the university’s official mascot.
It was not until Reveille III that the tradition of selecting a Rough Collie as mascot began. Since then, every Reveille — from Reveille III through Reveille X — has been a full-blooded Rough Collie, chosen for the breed’s elegance, intelligence, and calm demeanor.
Reveille X, the current mascot, began her duties in May 2021. Like her predecessors, she has become a familiar and adored presence on campus. She upholds the traditions of those who came before her, including participating in events, attending classes, and maintaining her high status in the Corps.
Reveille holds the highest rank in the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets. She is symbolically superior to even the Corps Commander, who holds four silver diamonds — Reveille wears five. This ranking reflects her status and the reverence the Aggie community holds for her.
One unique tradition that speaks to this ranking is that if Reveille falls asleep on a cadet’s bed, the cadet is expected to sleep elsewhere. Because Miss Rev outranks everyone, her comfort and well-being always come first.
Since 1960, the responsibility of caring for Reveille has fallen to a sophomore cadet in Company E-2, known as the mascot corporal. This cadet is chosen through a selective process each spring and serves as Reveille’s full-time companion for the academic year.
The mascot corporal lives with Reveille, brings her to classes, and takes her to all of her scheduled appearances. The bond that forms between the mascot corporal and Reveille is often strong and lifelong. Many former handlers recall their time with Reveille as one of the most memorable experiences of their time at Texas A&M.
Reveille’s schedule is busy. She attends football games, university ceremonies, parades, alumni events, and other public functions. She is often seen dressed in her maroon cape, representing school pride and the long-standing traditions of Aggieland.
One of the most well-known campus legends surrounding Reveille involves her classroom presence. If Reveille barks during a lecture, legend has it that the professor may dismiss the class. While not a formal rule, many professors honor the tradition as part of Aggie lore.
Miss Rev also enjoys more personal activities. She accompanies her handler on weekend trips, joins them for holidays at home, and even goes on dates. This close relationship between handler and mascot showcases the importance of trust and loyalty — values deeply held by Aggies.
Reveille is a living link to the university’s past, present, and future. Her presence unites current students with alumni and brings a sense of continuity to the rapidly changing world of higher education. To many, she is not just a mascot, but a member of the Aggie family.
The love for Reveille is evident across the Texas A&M campus. Whether she’s walking through the Memorial Student Center, attending a Midnight Yell Practice, or simply relaxing on the Quad, students and alumni alike pause to show their respect and affection.
In every way, Reveille is a symbol of Aggie tradition, pride, and honor. As the First Lady of Aggieland, her legacy continues to grow with each new generation, reminding everyone at Texas A&M University of the values that bind them together — loyalty, respect, and the enduring spirit of the Aggie family.
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