Excellence in Action: Cadet Reynolds Recognized with Prestigious Bayliss Award

Virginia Military Institute’s Air Force ROTC Detachment 880 recently celebrated Cadet Major Joseph T. Reynolds as the Fall 2026 recipient of the prestigious Bayliss Scholarship. Hailing from Williamsburg, Virginia, Reynolds is a member of the Class of 2027 and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Science with a concentration in Theory and Application.

Cadet Reynolds has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication within the detachment, currently serving in dual roles as the Cadet Inspector General and the Standardization and Evaluations Officer. Looking ahead to his final semester in Spring 2027, he is on track to serve as the Cadet Training Wing Vice Commander, where he will manage the operational planning and execution for over 200 cadets. His commitment to the program’s core values has paved the way for his future career; he has been selected to commission into the United States Air Force as a Pilot Trainee (92T0) and will attend Undergraduate Pilot Training in the summer of 2027.

During his acceptance remarks, Cadet Reynolds addressed Col Steele, the detachment staff, and distinguished members of the VMI Class of 1960, thanking the class for preserving the memory of their brother rat, Captain Bayliss. Reynolds reflected on the profound legacy attached to the award, stating that it serves as a lasting tribute to a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice in service and devotion to something greater than himself. He expressed his deep humility at being connected to such a legacy and his aspiration to follow in the footsteps of previous recipients who now serve as officers and pilots.

Reynolds also took the opportunity to address his fellow cadets directly, challenging the detachment to think of Captain Bayliss and other valiant, sacrificial Airmen whenever they stand to recite the Airman’s Creed. He urged his peers to take pride in their positions and to honor this proud heritage and legacy of valor by striving to become the best leaders they can be.