History: A Tech Tradition

When the Whistle Blows is one of the Institute's newest traditions. Today marks the 9th time that Georgia Tech has held a ceremony to remember the members of our campus community who have passed away during the previous year.

The ceremony itself is steeped in the richest of Georgia Tech traditions. The Ramblin' Reck, a 1930 Model A Ford and the Institute's first official mascot, leads families from the Hill down to the Lawn. Georgia Tech was one of the first schools in the nation to have a Reserved Officers Training Corps program, and the evening of the ceremony, members of the Army, Navy, and Air Force ROTC units provide escorts for the families. The unity candle represents the entire Georgia Tech community - the almost 20,000 students, staff, faculty, and administration that compromise the Institute. The Alma Mater reminds us of our roots here at Tech and relays the hope that we will always be united as a community.

And, of course, the Whistle... The Whistle dates back to the time of Lyman Hall, the second president of Georgia Tech. The sound of the Whistle resounded through Atlanta, becoming a landmark not only for the Institute but a timepiece for the Atlanta community. Throughout the decades, the Whistle continued to keep time, whether calling students to the classroom or celebrating a football victory. Today, as in years past, the sound of the Whistle always marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of something new. It remains deeply symbolic of the ingrained tradition unique to Georgia Tech, and we proudly remember those who are no longer with us by a salute from the Whistle. After the Whistle is blown for each of the community members who have passed away over the last year, a final Whistle is blown to commemorate the passing of all extended members of our campus community (alumni, noncurrent faculty and staff, and friends of the Institute).

Nothing can replace the joy that a loved one or cherished friend brings to our lives. But we can heal and grow stronger...together. The evening of this ceremony, we honor and celebrate the memory of those who have gone before us. May they forever remain in our hearts.

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