USC statue Tommy Trojan celebrates 75 years of defending the campus

Since June 6th, 1980, the USC campus has been under the watchful protection of Tommy Trojan. Initially debuted as the 'Trojan Shrine,' the statue was commissioned to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the school. Today, 75 years later, the icon remains strong.

With the words 'Faithful, Scholarly, Skillful, Courageous, and Ambitious' written, describing the character of Tommy Trojan, the statue symbolizes what is expected of all at USC. In their own unique way, becoming a Trojan is about reflecting these principles that have been a part of the school for all to see for nearly three-quarters of a century now.

The motto 'Palmam Qui Meruit Ferat' (Let whoever earns the palm bear it) is also present. Letting all passersby know of the victor mindset that is prevalent throughout USC, the motto comes from the Roman traditions of palms playing a significant role in the culture at the time. Victory and palms went hand in hand during those days, making it fitting to this day for Tommy Trojan and the motto to resemble this ancient custom.

Sculpted by Roger Noble Burnham, a number of players were used for modeling reference at the time. Most of Tommy Trojan's physique comes from Erny Pinckert and Russ Saunders. Pinckert was a member of the 1930 College Football All-America Team, and the bottom portion of the statue is mostly based on him. The upper half of the sculpture is based on Saunders, who was the MVP of the 1930 Rose Bowl.

Two significant USC staples

Since 2017, Tommy Trojan has also been joined on campus by the Hecuba Statue. Serving as a counterpart, the queen of Troy also keeps a watchful eye over the USC campus, adding to the reminder of the origins of the school's founding roots in history.

Every year, while the USC students have to do their part and protect Tommy Trojan during rivalry week, for the rest of the weeks, it is he who helps the student body, symbolizing strength and showing what is possible.