under the militia bill (the virginia code of 1860) officers of the institute were recognized as part of the military establishment of the state, and the governor had authority to issue commissions to them in accordance with institute regulations. current law makes provision for officers of the virginia militia to be subject to orders of the governor. the cadets are a military corps (the corps of cadets) under the command of the superintendent and under the administration of the commandant of cadets, and constitute the guard of the institute.