Great human endeavors often begin with a simple, tactile recognition of comradeship -- the handshake. On the night of 31st of July 2001, officers representing three decades of Atenean para-military training, exchanged clasps, amid the dull pitched clinks of beer bottles and a stream of Filipino food at the Yahong Filipino Restaurant in the Venue Compound.

Hastily brought together by the power of the "text", it was an informal, but nevertheless animated affair. One that was energized by the shared conviction that the ROTC experience -- which had left such an indelible mark on the lives of all who were present -- should be made available to future generations. To this end it was resolved that all who are to come, must be given the benefit of the collective wisdom of all who had come before.

The movement to establish a working alumni organization had begun.