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A spirit that is not afraid

Who are the War Eagle Girls and Plainsmen, and what do they do?

Plainsmen and War Eagle Girls celebrate after Auburn's win against Alabama State on Sept. 8, 2018, in Auburn, Ala.
Plainsmen and War Eagle Girls celebrate after Auburn's win against Alabama State on Sept. 8, 2018, in Auburn, Ala.

The Auburn War Eagle Girls and Plainsmen (WEGP) have represented Auburn University since the 1960s. They are recognized at every home football game standing tall in their orange and blue, but there is much more to the organization than being seen on the Jumbotron every Saturday. 

The War Eagle Girls and Plainsmen are composed of 13 women and 13 men to total a group of 26 Auburn students. They represent the respectable and trustworthy ideals of Auburn through the events they run and projects they work on. Some of these functions include organizing alumni pre-games at the President’s Mansion, giving tours of campus and hosting dignitaries.

James Harris, a senior in materials engineering, is the current president of the War Eagle Girls and Plainsmen. He became a member in the spring of 2017 and was elected into this leadership role on Jan. 30, 2018. Harris talked highly of the organization and how much of an impact it has had on him. 

“My experiences as a member of the War Eagle Girls and Plainsmen have provided me a new perspective on the University and fostered a deeper appreciation for ideals and character of Auburn men and women,” Harris said. 

Not only being a member, but also leading this group of students has been important in Harris’ life. He expressed that he has learned a lot from this experience and formed many meaningful relationships. 

“Although I hold the title of president, I continue to serve alongside the other 25 members at the president’s home, football games, alumni events, campus tours and all the other events we have the opportunity to assist with as members of WEGP,” Harris said. “It’s an honor to serve in this role, and I hope to finish this year strong and continue to serve for the betterment of Auburn.” 

Younger members in WEGP have also had similar positive answers when asked about the organization. Certain themes, growth and knowledge, were brought up frequently in their responses. 

Chad Barfield, a junior in public relations and marketing, only joined the group six months ago. He mentioned how he was in awe that he was able to be a part of such an esteemed group. 

“I was nervous to see if I was adequate for the position; however, the returners of the group, once I was selected have taken me in, and I built relationships that I am confident will last far past graduation,” Barfield said. 

Another newer member, Ari Alexander, who is a junior in industrial and systems engineering, discussed how much she has learned so far in this organization.

“Coming into this group I thought I knew a lot about serving, but it wasn’t until I was surrounded by 25 of the most selfless people that I truly began to understand the definition of service,” Alexander said. 

The group also shared some of their most memorable moments from being in WEGP, highlighting the bond formed between all the students. 

“The most memorable moment for me thus far has probably been when we went to the lake the first weekend of the semester and were just around each other after being separated for summer,” said Barfield. “The time and conversations felt very organic. I just remember sitting on the dock around the other 25 members thinking, ‘wow these people are some of my best friends.’”

Through her most memorable moment, Alexander emphasized the tightness of the group. 

“I would have to say my most memorable moment would have to be senior speeches,” Alexander said. “You really get to see how close-knit the group becomes over a year and the great opportunities they were given to serve Auburn.”

To become a member of the organization, one must go through two rounds of interviews. The first round cuts down the pool of people to 25 men and 25 women, and the second results in callouts at Samford Hall. The standing Miss Auburn also serves as a member of the group. 

The students also provided some advice for any students looking to become a member of WEGP. 

“I think there is a misconception that you have to have been previously involved in a bunch of organizations on campus or have to have a polished resume in order to be considered or apart of WEGP,” Alexander said. “No one is placed in this group based on his or her resume, but rather individuals are measured by his or her character and willingness to serve the University.”

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Harris also gave some tips from a president’s perspective. 

“I feel that a lot of people are constantly looking for what they can be doing to set themselves up for a better chance to achieve the next position, job, organization, etc. If you work hard and focus on what you are doing now, it helps you immensely when you step into a new role,” Harris said.


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