events. Because of COVID-19 pandemic the 2021 Summerall Guards were selected, but never performed. Leadership Members who hold leadership positions within the Guards, depending on their position, are determined by both the Summerall Guards themselves and The Citadel's administration - by a meeting mirroring a standard military promotion board. Leadership positions are open to any member of the unit; however, only Guards who both exhibit strong leadership qualities in the larger Corps of Cadets and excel during BVA Training are usually nominated by their peers. The Commander, First Sergeant, and Supply Sergeant are the only three positions nominated by the Guards to attend the boards held by The Citadel's administration. Usually, the Guards nominate at least two of their peers to fill each slot. However, the final decision lies with the administration. It is important to note that this is a fairly recent change. Prior to 2007, the Guards elected and appointed their own leadership without influence from the school. Commander The commander holds the overall responsibility for leading the platoon. He plans, along with guidance from the First Sergeant, performance dates, practice dates and times, and BVA Training. He is also the liaison between the platoon and The Citadel's administration. The Commander leads the Cuts Run during each day of BVA Training and is responsible for determining the desired run distance, pace and targeted attrition rate. The Commander fills the role commonly held by a platoon leader in the United States Army or platoon commander in the United States Marine Corps. He wears no cross webbing or cartridge box on his dress uniform. He wears an officer's maroon sash and feather plume in his shako. He is the only Summerall Guard who carries a sword during the performance of The Citadel Series. This is done to distinguish himself as the unit's leader. First Sergeant The First Sergeant is tasked with enforcing all standards and tasks given out by the Summerall Guard Commander. The First Sergeant ensures that discipline is achieved during practice and all deadlines are met by the unit. He is the Commander's second in command and is prepared to assume command in his absence. The First Sergeant falls into the formation during performances and wears the standard dress uniform. Supply Sergeant The Supply Sergeant handles all logistical matters within the platoon. He is responsible for the issuing of the platoon's M1903 Springfield rifles and chrome plated parade