CLEMSON — For Elyjah Thurmon, Clemson’s 37-0 shutout win over Charleston Southern on Saturday afternoon was special in more ways than one.

Not only did Thurmon return to his spot at right guard after suffering an injury in the win over Cal and then being forced to miss the Miami game two weeks ago, but it was also Military Appreciation Day at Memorial Stadium. With Clemson having deep-seated military roots, the school is one of the best in the nation when it comes to honoring the nation’s veterans.

Thurmon grew up in a military family. His parents, Tammie Williams and Earnest Thurmon, are both US Army veterans. His grandfather and great-uncle both served in the Marines. So, when Dabo Swinney informed Thurmon earlier in the week that he would be the flagbearer for this game and lead the team down the hill, the veteran offensive lineman was blown away.

“It was great. It was surreal, actually,” Thurmon said after the game. “Didn’t think I would actually get to have this experience. But when coach told me I got the opportunity to be able to run down the hill to lead the guys with the flag and whatnot, it was just amazing.”

Thurmon signed with Clemson as a four-star prospect in the 2024 recruiting class. He appeared to be on the verge of a breakout freshman campaign, making his first career start late that season against Pitt. However, an injury suffered on his first snap ended his debut campaign.

Thurmon was once again hampered by injury last year and was limited to just 129 snaps across three games (one start).

He earned the starting job at right guard ahead of this season, but was once again injured in the win over Cal. That injury forced him to miss the following game against Miami, as well. Now, he’s back, and his return timed perfectly with Clemson’s annual Military Appreciation Day.

Once he stepped foot off the bus that brings the team around the stadium from the locker room in the West End Zone and stood atop the hill waving that flag, Thurmon found himself overcome with emotion.

“Once I got off the bus and stood in front of the entire crowd on the hill with the flag in my hand, I kind of blacked out for a second,” Thurmon added.

However, growing up in a military family helped Thurmon prepare for that moment. In fact, it’s helped him with so much more.

“It shapes every part of your life,” he said. “From the guidance end to how much structure you have. Coming from a military background…. I really don’t have words to explain it. It has shaped every part of my life. From growing up to who I am now.”