A Personal Message from the Superintendent, Oct. 23, 2025

It is with a heavy heart that I inform the VMI community of the passing of Chaplain (Col.) Charles Caudill, USAF Ret. Chaplain Caudill served as Institute chaplain and chaplain to the Corps of Cadets from 1979 until 1994 following an exemplary 23-year career as a chaplain in the United States Air Force.

During his tenure at VMI, Chaplain Caudill touched the lives of countless cadets, myself included. He was well known for his compassionate spirit, empathetic approach, inspiring sermons, wise counsel, and his famous hugs. His ability to break down barriers and connect with cadets was unparalleled, and he was seen as a father figure by many. Chaplain Caudill was elected honorary brother rat for the Class of 1983, the same class as his son Chris, further solidifying his enduring connection to the Corps. He also brought new life into the weekly chapel services, increased chaplain-initiated events, and reintroduced the practice of handing out personally signed holy books at graduation. His legacy with the Corps of Cadets, the Office of Chaplain, and alumni cannot be overstated enduring decades beyond his tenure. Throughout my seven combat deployments, I carried in my pack every day the Bible Chaplain Caudill gave me at graduation. That Bible brought me comfort and assurance during some very difficult times and for that I am grateful.

Beyond the vast impact on cadets and the VMI community, Chaplain Caudill will be remembered for his kindheartedness and genuine spirit. As a sixth-generation minister, self-sacrificial love for others was his life’s work and purpose. According to a 1994 Roanoke Times article published just before his retirement from VMI, Chaplain Caudill was asked how he wanted cadets to remember him. He hoped they would say, “His hugs were real. He blessed me.” Both are true. Please join me in honoring Chaplain Caudill and his family as we say goodbye to a true servant leader. God bless you, sir. Rest easy in the arms of the Almighty. The entire VMI community will miss you and mourns your loss.

LtGen David J. Furness '87 (USMC, ret.)
Superintendent
VIRGINIA MILITARY INSTITUTE