Notes from the Field
A Visit to Saint- Jean Military Academy
On April 16th and 17th, center director Dr. Travis Morris, three Cadets and Prof. Zachary Bennett traveled to Montreal, Canada to attend a kick off event recognizing the 250th anniversary of the Siege of Fort Saint-Jean at the Fort Saint-Jean Museum which took place from September 17 to November 3, 1775 as part of the American Revolution.
Cadet Dylan Dearing, Class of 2026
Attending the anniversary conference at the Canadian Royal Military College in St. Jean was a great experience. The event, which marked the anniversary of the U.S. invasion of Canada during the Revolutionary War, provided a unique opportunity to reflect on a significant piece of shared history. One of the most meaningful parts of the trip was speaking with several RMC cadets attending Norwich next year. Hearing their perspectives on leadership and training gave me a better understanding of how our programs compare and where we can learn from each other. Those conversations were insightful and motivating, and they reinforced the importance of international cooperation in developing future military leaders.
Cadet Noah Sham, Class of 2026
Bridging Borders Through Military Education: A Reflection on My Visit to Saint-Jean Military Academy
As a cadet at Norwich University—the oldest private military college in the United States—I am constantly reminded of the importance of leadership, discipline, and service. My appreciation for international military collaboration deepened during a recent visit to the Saint-Jean Military Academy in Quebec, Canada.
Set against a backdrop of history and heritage, Saint-Jean is a Canadian equivalent to my own institution. Stepping onto its grounds felt both familiar and novel. The cadence of military life echoed what I’ve experienced at Norwich, yet the cultural and institutional differences offered new perspectives. Throughout my visit, I had the opportunity to connect with both faculty and students, engaging in conversations about our training regimens, daily routines, and aspirations beyond graduation.
What stood out most was not the differences between us, but the shared values. Honor, integrity, discipline, and a commitment to something larger than oneself transcended national lines. These conversations reinforced what I’ve long believed: while we may wear different flags, we are united in purpose.
A particularly impactful element of the trip was learning about the history between the United States and Canada, specifically the enduring peace our two nations have maintained for over a century. This legacy of trust and cooperation isn’t just a diplomatic artifact; it’s a living example of what allied partnerships can look like when built on mutual respect. Standing among Canadian cadets, I felt a profound sense of shared responsibility to uphold and continue this tradition of peace.
Outside of the military and academic setting, I was warmly welcomed into Canadian culture. From the cuisine to the language to the subtle nuances in lifestyle, I found myself constantly engaged in moments of learning and appreciation. Their hospitality was both humbling and inspiring. These cultural experiences, while informal, are essential to shaping well-rounded leaders, especially those who may one day serve in multinational coalitions.
The experience at Saint-Jean also led me to reflect more deeply on my life at Norwich. In many ways, it is my American version of their academy. Both institutions are dedicated to producing leaders of character, grounded in service and prepared for complex global challenges. However, this visit gave me a broader lens to view my development as a future officer. I left with a stronger sense of cultural empathy and a renewed understanding of the importance of relationship-building across borders.
I am grateful to both Norwich University and the Saint-Jean Military Academy for making this opportunity possible. Representing Norwich in an international setting was an honor and a transformative experience. As I move forward in my academic and military career, I carry with me the lessons of Saint-Jean: the value of diplomacy, the importance of understanding other cultures, and the belief that peace is built through personal relationships long before it's written into policy.
In a world that can often feel divided, experiences like this remind me of our greater mission: to serve with purpose, build trust across borders, and lead with humility and vision.
