A Spirit Over The Hill: Norwich University Celebrates Homecoming with Historic B-2 Flyover

A Spirit Over The Hill: Norwich University Celebrates Homecoming with Historic B-2 Flyover
Each autumn, alumni return from across the country and around the globe to reconnect with classmates, share in traditions, and see firsthand the Norwich spirit that endures across generations. This year, as Norwich celebrates is 206th anniversary, homecoming promises to be a weekend unlike any over as it is capped by the thunderous roar of a B-2 Spirit stealth bomber flyover before the kickoff of Saturday’s football game. 

The flyover, graciously provided by the United States Air Force, is more than a dramatic display. It is a recognition of the University’s heritage as the birthplace of ROTC, a tribute to all Norwich alumni, and a thank you to the many Norwich graduates who have served and led in every branch of the armed services. It will be a moment that fuses Norwich’s storied past with its living present.

A Tradition of Return

Alumni Weekend is a gathering of family, a celebration of friendships formed on The Hill, and a time when alumni return to walk the same pathways as the cadets and civilian students who now carry the Norwich tradition forward. For some, it is their first return since graduation. For others, it is a regular pilgrimage marked by reunions, remembrance, and renewal.

Stretching from Sept. 17-21, with a full schedule of events that highlight both the timeless traditions and evolving story of Norwich University, Alumni Weekend is a dynamic time on campus. Events will connect the newest members of the Norwich community through the most seasoned alumni. The Board of Fellows First Contact and the School of Nursing White Coat Ceremony will serve as the opening official events on Wednesday, setting the tone for an extended celebration. 

The Class of 1975 will be the newest members of the Old Guard, a milestone that cements the class in the honored ranks of Norwich’s history. The Harmon Memorial Wall Ceremony will honor those who have served with distinction. Authors and creators will also take center stage, including Professor Emeritus of History Gary Lord with a book signing of “Norwich University in American History” and Randy Miller ’93 presenting “Celebrating Norwich Alumni Through the Second Mess Podcast.”

Athletics Front and Center

No Norwich homecoming would be complete without athletics, and 2025 promises a full weekend of Cadet competition. Multiple varsity programs will host home contests, offering alumni and families additional opportunities to show their Norwich pride. 

A particular highlight will come from the wrestling programs, where both the men’s and women’s teams will officially open their new practice space with an open practice. The expanded room, more than twice the width of the previous facility, will allow multiple groups to train simultaneously, showcasing the intensity and discipline associated with Cadet athletics. For women’s wrestling, the practice marks a milestone moment: Norwich is now the first senior military college in the nation and the first college in Vermont to sponsor women’s wrestling. 

Just before kickoff of the Cadet football team’s homecoming game, all eyes will turn skyward as the B-2 Spirit bomber makes its historic flyover of Sabine Field. With its distinctive flying wing design, the B-2 is one of the most advanced aircraft in the world. Its presence over campus will be a powerful moment for alumni, cadets, civilian students, and families alike.

Alumni Parade

Saturday will showcase one of Norwich’s most beloved traditions: the Alumni Parade. Graduates from across the generations will march through the University’s iconic Sabine Gates and onto Sabine Field, a gathering unlike any other in American higher education. The sight of alumni from every decade marching together onto the field is a visual reminder of the shared bond that unites every Norwich class. 

The parade is more than a spectacle; it is a ritual of belonging, an affirmation that the Norwich experience continues to link alumni long after graduation.

A Homecoming to Remember

From the solemnity of ceremonies to the excitement of athletic contests, from the joy of reunions to the pride of tradition, the Alumni Weekend will once again embody the spirit of Norwich. 

The schedule is rich, the traditions are enduring, and the addition of a B-2 Spirit flyover makes this homecoming one for the ages. The B-2 represents American innovation and military strength. Its presence over The Hill will honor Norwich legacy, salute its alumni, and inspire the students who carry the mission forward today. 

For alumni, cadets, students, and friends, it will be a weekend to reconnect and a moment to remember. A time when history, tradition, and innovation converged in the skies over Northfield.