CGSOC Class of 2027 kicks off with international flag ceremony

The U.S. Army Command and General Staff College (CGSC) conducted its annual International Flag ceremony Aug. 17, 2026, at the Lewis and Clark Center on Fort Leavenworth. CGSC Commandant Col. David Norris was the keynote speaker. 


The International Flag ceremony is the traditional beginning of the Command and General Staff School’s (CGSS) premier course, the Command and General Staff Officers Course (CGSOC). 
During the ceremony, one international military student representing each partner and ally nation of the academic year’s class marches on stage to place their national flags, led by the U.S. student, the first flag posted. The ceremony signifies the global alliance and academic collaboration of this year’s CGSOC class. This year’s class of 1,044 students includes 87 international military students from 79 countries.

“This year is a truly rare opportunity,” Norris said, “a year to read, to think, to write, to reflect, and to grow, both personally and professionally. I encourage you and your families to embrace every aspect of this important experience. But let me be clear. This year, this course is not a comfortable break from the operating force. It’s a demanding intellectual crucible designed to evoke critical professional growth. This curriculum designed , developed and delivered by our world-class faculty is difficult. It will challenge you profoundly, requiring innovation and adaptation in the application of your tradecraft , and at every turn , you will be assessed and provided critical feedback.”

Norris concluded his remarks with this statement: “The strategic challenges of the 21st century require field grade officers that can fight effectively in joint combined and multinational coalitions. Our nations rely on leaders like you to provide the security and stability that are necessary for peace and prosperity. This is our solemn duty, and together we will fulfill it.”

Watch video of the full ceremony on DVIDS