NStar Articles

Fresh off clinching an exciting conference championship in the spring, the Navy Women’s Hockey team is in full swing this season, with a 12-2-0-0 record as of publication time, and a shot at winning the championship again. This impressive team is currently ranked second in their conference and they have their sights set on the national championship in Massachusetts next month. Their momentum and enthusiasm are unstoppable.

We’re a small band of brothers and sisters. Just 1,200 USNA midshipmen are accepted into the U.S. Naval Academy each year, and a bit over 1,000 of us will graduate four years later. We’re a hardy lot, accustomed to long hours and late nights, tough physical training sessions and hard leadership lessons. While we enter as plebes, we leave as commissioned naval leaders, ready and equipped to help protect our country and preserve its freedoms. Along the way as midshipmen (and as midshipgoat) for our four years here, we learn what it takes to survive and thrive. We also learn the tips and tricks that get us there.

For many of the one million plus people who walk through the gates of the U.S. Naval Academy each year hoping to get a glimpse at what makes this place so special, “The Call to Serve” movie at the USNA Visitor Center is their first good look at midshipmen life. When you enter the Armel-Leftwich Visitor Center, you’ll find this movie in its own theater. Approximately twelve minutes long, it plays every fifteen minutes throughout the day, starting at 9:00 AM and continuing until the last visitor leaves at 5:00 PM. It’s estimated that  85,000 people take the tours annually, and a significant number of them also watch, “The Call to Serve.”

Love is in the air. It’s the month of cupid, and whether you celebrate Valentine’s Day on the 14th, throughout the month or all year long, Navyonline.com has a wealth of unique Navy gifts that you’ll love to give. From REAL U.S. Naval Academy clothing like Navy sweatshirts and shorts, to bags, to home decor, to pet accessories and more—you can show someone you care with that perfect-for-them find. Or grab something special that you adore and show yourself some love. Either way, you’ll be sending a valentine to the Brigade, since all proceeds go to the midshipmen. Happy Valentine’s Day to all! Let’s take a spin around the Naval Academy store.

Many of the intriguing artifacts that dress the Yard have significant meaning, and several of them still play an integral role in daily life at the Naval Academy. The historic bells that flank Bancroft Hall are two such living relics. Known as the Enterprise Bell and the Japanese Bell, they come to life towards the end of each semester  to be rung for each sport that Navy has dominated over Army. When they’re not being rung, they are heavy with the histories that they bring to this special place.

Know someone who wants to go to the Naval Academy? We have some gifts they will absolutely love. The USNA Gift Shop, USNA Midshipmen Store and Navyonline.com are stocked with exclusive Navy gear that you’ll only find here. Additionally, these are the only official Naval Academy stores for REAL Navy gear that give back to the Brigade. All profits go right to the midshipmen. So you’ll be supporting the current midshipmen and future midshipmen when you shop here!

It’s a new year—and the perfect time for a new wardrobe! Whether you’re completely swapping out the old or revamping a swath of your closet, this official U.S. Naval Academy clothing guide can provide some inspiration for showing your Navy spirit. From U.S. Navy jackets, to Navy football gear, to Navy shirts, to more, our quick primer will save you the shopping, and Navyonline.com can do the shipping! Take a look at what’s new and exciting at the store.

They are two of the most competitive colleges in the nation, especially when they go head-to-head on the football field. They both train civilians for the incredible pressures of leadership at the highest levels of the military. And they both have been doing so for more than 176 years. Yet despite these commonalities, the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) and the U.S. Military Academy (USMA or West Point), have their own unique attributes too. Let’s explore what makes the Naval Academy midshipman different from the West Point cadet.

Wow, what a game. While not the outcome we hoped for, we’d still like to extend a hearty congratulations to the winningest team in the Army-Navy 132 year-old football rivalry. The U.S. Naval Academy Midshipmen left it all out on Lincoln Financial Field in their first overtime game in their 123 rivalry games. Even though they came up empty-handed on Saturday with an Army-Navy football game score of 20-17, they still boast a cumulative total against the West Point Black Knights of 62 wins to their 54 wins, with seven ties between them, an admirable record to be sure. Almost 70,000 fans watched the game from the stands, and they were joined by countless additional television viewers and others listening and streaming. The game joins a legendary list of other great “America’s Game” battles played over the course of history.

Rock climbing is a full body workout. Climbers must perform a carefully choreographed vertical dance to successfully scale a surface that’s oftentimes unpredictable and unreliable. It’s no wonder then, that midshipmen at the U.S. Naval Academy are drawn to this challenging sport. Throughout their career at Navy, midshipmen strive to accomplish the all-important physical mission despite the difficulties and impossibilities–and rock climbing is an excellent way to achieve that.

This year's Army-Navy football game is raring to go, and we’re getting revved up for the game of the year. Last December, Navy boosted their cumulative lead over long-time rival Army Black Knights with another win, notching a total of 62 games in the win column versus the Black Knights’ 52 in their long and tumultuous history. The games are the stuff of legends, drawing crowds of 80,000 and up. There’s also a television audience of 7.57 million screaming fans tuning in. Even as exciting as the games? The uniforms.

If you’re visiting the Yard in the fall or the spring, you are in for a treat. Every weekday (minus Wednesdays) just before noon (weather permitting), the entire Brigade of Midshipmen (that is 4,400+ women and men in uniform) assembles at Tamanend Court, right in front of their massive dormitory, Bancroft Hall. This is Noon Meal Formation , and it is one of the USNA traditions that has been occurring here for over one hundred years. It is a must-see for any Naval Academy visit.

So you’re familiar with the famed bandmaster Charles A. Zimmerman, who composed and performed the U.S. Naval Academy anthem “Anchors Aweigh”—and you know one of USNA’s most famous graduates is Jimmy Carter. Yet the Yard is full of history, and those facts just scratch the surface. 

(Lt. Lopez is shown leading his platoon. A few minutes after this photo was taken, he sacrificed his life.)

A medal awarded posthumously is bittersweet. Recognizing bravery in the face of unimaginable danger, it is one of the greatest honors to bestow, a promise to never forget—and at the same time, an acknowledgment of a life lost too soon. So many of our notable graduates have achieved great things in service to our country, and when they have given their lives for that honor, we are extraordinarily grateful and extremely mindful of the meaning and poignancy of that sacrifice. First Lieutenant Baldomero Lopez is one such notable graduate.

A four-time space veteran and former Deputy Commandant of the USNA, the Honorable Charles F. Bolden, Jr., has distinguished himself as a top tier astronaut, Marine and USNA graduate. Yet there’s even more to his incredible story. 

Charles Frank Bolden, Jr. was born in Columbia, South Carolina, on August 19, 1946. He graduated from C.A. Johnson High School and received an appointment from an Illinois congressman to the U.S. Naval Academy, where he was known as a talented boxer, Glee Club singer, 11th Company Commander, and the president of the Class of 1968. In his time at the U.S. Naval Academy, Bolden worked closely with the Superintendent to increase diversity initiatives and graduated earning his bachelor’s degree in electrical science.

“Go Navy!” The battle cry rings out each week when the midshipmen take the field. Since 1878 the U.S. Naval Academy has fought on the gridiron with the cheers of passionate fans in their ears. Everything about USNA football is packed with excitement, from the parade pouring into Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, to the bustling tailgates set up just outside, to Navy Spirit’s high flying tricks, to the roar of the crowd as the midshipmen take the field. “Anchors Aweigh” gives you goosebumps as you look over a sea of crisp uniforms. It’s an experience not to be missed. Check out our Go-To Guide for Navy Football for the details.

As the official midshipgoat for USNA, I am often asked by fans, “when is the Navy’s birthday?” I also get “do you really eat everything?” The first is a great question, and I needed to double check my math since the Navy is certainly getting up there in years! The second answer is, yes, well anything not tied down….

There are two gleaming Heisman trophies displayed proudly in the state-of-the-art Terwilliger Center and in Lejeune Hall, and Roger Staubach earned one of them.* One of the U.S. Naval Academy’s most well-known and revered football stars, this Class of 1965 graduate continues to play a role in the sport at which he has excelled for so many years. Here’s his incredible story.

Once upon a time, midshipmen took a so-called “core curriculum” that led to every graduating midshipman earning a Bachelor of Science of degree. The school was founded in 1845, and the majors program started in 1969, when it required the Class of 1972 to complete a major in order to graduate. Qualifying midshipmen in the 1969 graduating class that year received the first designated engineering degrees, which were aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, naval engineering and systems engineering.  

As the U.S. Naval Academy’s favorite goat, I am at every USNA football game, whether it’s here at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium or in another amazing arena like MetLife, battling the Black Knights of West Point. These games are epic, and it’s hard to fully explain the feeling until you’ve been there. The heady competition and cherished military tradition combine for an incredible game experience that’s turbocharged with meaning, history and pride. 

What’s approximately 13 pounds, black and white (and every color) all over and full of Naval Academy treasures? Why the “Lucky Bag” of course, the U.S. Naval Academy’s long standing yearbook! According to the publisher’s Facebook page, it’s the “largest yearbook in the world.” Started in 1894, it now counts 129 huge volumes. To think that it was started by a small band of five merry midshipmen sailing the seas on a summer cruise is incredible. They were reciting poetry and decided that they should  "publish a little volume into which bursts of genius might be gathered,” according to the current Lucky Baggers. 

Many of us know him for his quirky infomercials that took the 1992 presidential election by storm, talking in his down-home way about balancing the budget, creating jobs, or other timely economic concepts. Perot, one of USNA’s distinguished graduates,  captured the imagination of Americans over the course of two unconventional presidential runs. He became one of the most successful third party candidates for American presidents in history, and when you look at his life, you can see why.

We’re welcoming the lazy, breezy days of August to the Yard. Plebe Summer winds down in the middle of the month, and the air is full of Annapolis magic—Chesapeake Bay breezes, bushels of crabs laid out on picnic tables with suds to wash them down—and dogs. Everywhere, dogs! It seems like everyone in Annapolis has a dog these days—there are dogs on boats, dogs on the sidewalk and dogs out on patios with their people, enjoying the sun. We just can’t get enough of dogs!

Back to School shopping is a strange season filled with mixed emotions. Kids, teens and adults heading back often dread trading in their pool and friend time for time in the classroom, and parents and others are dreading the back-to-the-office grind that typically accompanies Back to School, after the vacations have turned into photo memories, sandy car trunks and (hopefully) some lingering tans. 

The Naval Academy prides itself on its physical prowess. As one of the pillars of the institution, excellence in physical fitness  is part of the mission “To develop midshipmen morally, mentally, and physically and to imbue them with the highest ideals of duty, honor, and loyalty in order to graduate leaders who are dedicated to a career of Naval service and have potential for future development in mind and character to assume the highest responsibilities of command, citizenship, and government.”

She holds the spacewalking record for women: seven spacewalks that clocked in at 50 hours and 40 minutes. She has logged a total of 322 days in space across two missions, ranking her sixth on the all-time U.S. endurance list—and second for women. Sunita L. Williams has blazed starry trails in space and earned every one of her minutes in the sun (even if they were on the moon).

Ahhh, summertime. When most of us set our out-of-office notices and head on long-awaited vacations, whether they’re sunny, sandy spots, a quiet lake in the woods, a trek through ancient cities, or some good old fashioned kicking back at home, it’s finally time to relax and recharge, and Navyonline will help you do just that. Take USNA with you on vacation with these useful, clever items. Don’t leave home without them—unless you’re not leaving home in the first place. So if you’ve been asking yourself “where to shop for summer”—look no further, Navyonline has you covered. Here’s to summer vacation the way you want it! Shop for summer and show your support.

It’s an ice arena, tennis center and fitness center. When the new class of plebes are inducted at the beginning of plebe summer, it also becomes one of the biggest distribution centers around, storing the 360,000 personal, school, and toiletry items that the plebes will need for the first year of their Naval Academy career and beyond. The Thornton D. and Elizabeth S. Hooper Brigade Sports Complex is a lot of things to a lot of people.

After four long years of hustle, heart and hard work, the women and men who entered the Naval Academy as plebes graduate as commissioned junior officers. The change is astonishing — anyone comparing the “before” on I-Day to the “after” on graduation day can see a complete transformation. Gone are the rhythms of civilian life. Instead, young naval leaders take command with confidence and pride. 

Vice Admiral James B. Stockdale was an extraordinary man. He not only weathered over seven brutal years as a prisoner of war (POW) at the infamous Hanoi Hotel in Vietnam, but recently declassified information reveals that this brave and unflagging war hero also led the POWs there and even ran a successful espionage operation together with the CIA and his wife, Sybil Stockdale.

Hoist up the sails! It’s time for some summer fun. Nothing says warm weather better than a day on the waves, and we’ve pulled together some Navy inspired looks for a fun day on the Bay—or wherever your water-filled adventures take you! Get shopping for your summer Navy apparel now!

Have you ever found yourself wondering, “do USNA students get a summer break after their spring semester is finished?” or “what do midshipmen do in the summer?” You’re not alone. While the midshipmen and this goat do get a break from our typical year, it's certainly not your average summer break—and it’s really not a break at all. In addition to undertaking a rigorous course load for the school year, the midshipmen and I stay on the Yard through most of the summer for some on-deck training through several exciting and demanding naval academy summer programs. In fact, each of the classes from just after fourth year through just after second year take part in a cruise that offers real hands-on (or “hooves-on” in my case) maritime experience, as well as off-shore training that prepares us for our future careers as naval leaders. 

One of the newer club teams on the Yard, Women’s Navy Club Lacrosse made its debut in 2018 when now ENS Jessica Mazzeo and 2nd Lt. Cheyenne Coughlin (both class of 2020) started the popular extracurricular activity (ECA). Both women led the club for two years, and they still keep in touch with the current team today. As Christine Hogan, current Club President says, “The team’s success is owed to them.”

The Naval Academy is proud to have graduated a number of women and men that later traveled into space. One of the most well-known Naval Academy graduates is Alan Bartlett (B.) Shepard Jr., the first American astronaut to do so. While his flight was 23 days after the Russian cosmonaut, Yuri Gagarin’s flight, it was remarkable since Shepard was able to pilot his rocket, whereas Gagarin was just a passenger on his voyage—and while the Russian launch was shrouded in secrecy, Shepard’s flight, successful splashdown and retrieval by helicopter and aircraft carrier were watched live by millions around the world and gleefully celebrated with parades and accolades across the U.S.

His name is familiar but his extraordinary story might not be. Chester W. Nimitz, who commanded more men and women than any U.S. military officer in World War II, came from humble beginnings and was, by all accounts, a humble man.

Throughout their time at the Academy, the midshipmen must regularly prove their strength. Naval Academy Plebe Summer is the first test of physical, mental and emotional endurance, lasting approximately seven weeks. At the end of their Naval Academy Plebe Year, midshipmen must also conquer a “capstone event,” the extremely difficult Sea Trials, which take place in May and are not open to the public. The Sea Trials represent the culmination of an incredibly challenging and fulfilling year.

Spring showers are here! Visit Navyonline for all of your rainy day Naval Academy merch needs, from less-than-fair weather gear, to rainy day fun, to umbrellas for wet weather games.

The Navy is notorious (in a good way) for its colorful language, from the days when sailors spent many a month out at sea, navigating the waters. As they worked together in the rough conditions, a whole new language emerged, and it has continued to grow to this day.

Ever since she watched the first men walk on the moon, USNA hero Wendy B. Lawrence wanted to fly in space.

Hello Spring! Now is the perfect time to add new USNA spring clothing pieces to your wardrobe.

Combine the endurance of long-distance swimming with the agility of myriad sports including basketball, rugby, hockey, and soccer and you’ll see what creates the incredible sport of Water Polo.

Our pets love us and we love them! As we await spring, let's spoil our pets with these fun Navy pet products from Navyonline.

From the moment we enter the Academy on I-Day, Reef Points is our go-to handbook for critical Naval Academy information and instructions. This little blue guide has over 300 pages and more than 175 years of history within it.

Sailing is deemed a "crucible" for leadership training at the Naval Academy. Maritime expertise sets this academy apart, as the future military leaders must be able to master the skills of small-boat handling, navigation, safety at sea, watch standing, and small-unit leadership. Like many of the buildings dotting the Yard, the Robert Crown Sailing Center has a long and rich history and is considered to be the center for professional development for the Naval Academy.

Lieutenant Commander Wesley Anthony Brown broke a momentous milestone in 1949 when he became the first African American USNA graduate.

Love is in the air. With Valentine’s Day quickly approaching, we put together a love note with some sweet and unexpected gifts for your Navy Valentine.

While the love from your special someone may make you feel warm and fuzzy on the inside, it can't change how chilly it is in February! This USNA frosty fleece blanket is the perfect gift for you or your boo to snuggle up with during the cold winter months. It's no surprise that this blanket is so popular - with its Sherpa fleece material it's as cozy as they come. An added bonus, it comes perfectly folded and wrapped with a Navy ribbon and bow making it a perfect gift!

From the time of his birth, on August 29, 1936 at the Coco Solo Naval Air Station in the Panama Canal Zone, John Sidney McCain III began building his foundation in public service. Whether it was his early stint as a midshipman at the Naval Academy from 1954 to 1958, his captivity during the Vietnam War, his public service in the House of Representatives and later the Senate, or his bids for the presidency, he resolutely focused on service to his country. It was McCain’s greatest accomplishment. His final resting place is a tribute to his steadfast honor and loyalty. McCain’s remains are in the USNA Cemetery next to those of his best friend, Chuck Larson, another notable graduate who the administration building “Larson Hall” was named for.

There’s nothing that brings people together like breaking bread and sharing a meal. When you’re bringing more than 4,000 people together, that’s a lot of bread and a lot of meals.

Winter brings mixed feelings and dropping temperatures. Some welcome the season with outstretched gloves and an eagerness to hit the slopes and spend hours in powder.

The U.S. Naval Academy campus is known for its awe-inspiring Beaux-Arts architecture. Born of the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, this style was popular from the 1830s through the late 19th century.

Retired 4-Star Navy Admiral Michelle J. Howard has had a career filled with breakthroughs and firsts.

It’s holly jolly holiday time! When we were kids (it wasn’t long ago for me!), we used to rifle through catalogues with our little hooves and circle all the shiny new toys we wanted, hoping that a bike, baseball glove, doll or hay bale would appear, and crossing our hooves there wouldn’t be coal.

When you've got a huge Navy fan to surprise for the holidays, look no further than Navyonline.com. They have everything you need for a very Navy holiday!

Being a midshipman at the Naval Academy means serving your country. For many of them, that service is just the beginning.

Many know Jimmy Carter as our 39th president, a great humanitarian and peanut farmer who ruled the free world for a time.

As the days get shorter and crisper, it's fun to switch up your wardrobe and cozy up in comfy fall fabrics. Navyonline has a great variety of cooler weather finds, from blankets, to sweaters, to scarves.

I subscribe to the idea that it’s never too early to shop for the holidays—especially now, with shipping channels frequently experiencing delays. Finding the right gift for everyone on your list can also be tricky, so starting early is key to a successful gift giving season.

Note: Shirts have sold out for the 2021 Army-Navy game, but you can still get in the spirit and show your Navy support with our Under Armour 2021 Rivalry Series available now!

One of the longest running and most exciting rivalries in college football is the Army-Navy game. Midshipmen and cadets come together to cheer on their respective services in a high-spirited and competitive match-up.

For better or worse, the working world as we know it has changed. In many cases, commutes are now steps instead of miles, cubicles have given way to guest rooms and our office mates are more often the four-legged kind. If you find that you are working from home, Naval Academy fans, this post is for you.

U.S. Navy Captain Kathryn P. Hire has defied expectations her entire life. Even she would never have predicted she’d be working for the Navy for three and a half decades, becoming a dual-career Navy Captain and NASA astronaut.

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to live life on the Yard and walk (or jog, as the plebes do) inside the hallowed halls of the Naval Academy?

Hooray for fall sports! It feels great to be back on the fields, courts, pitches, you name it. And it's great to show our support with some fun REAL USNA sports merchandise from Navyonline. When you are heading to one of the many club and intramural games, matches, or meets, there are many ways to show the USNA your Navy love!

Do you know why the Tiffany windows in the Main Chapel glow even on cloudy days? Have you found the hushed spot where John Paul Jones lies in repose, or seen where the plebes officially become “plebes no more?” These treasures, and many more, await you on a tour of the Yard.

One of only four varsity sports offered at the Naval Academy at the turn of the century (along with baseball, crew and football), fencing has been an integral part of the Naval Academy sport story since 1896.

Are you ready for some Navy football? It’s time to (finally) get back to the gridiron!

The Naval Academy has many heroes, some you know well and some you may not know much about - yet.

For so many reasons, the Naval Academy is not your average college. So it stands to reason that the USNA student supplies go beyond your typical college requests.

Go Navy, Beat Army! Go Navy, Bite Army! These are the rallying cries (at least the first one) that have propelled our legendary Naval Academy football team to victory countless times. The second rallying cry is a barking order you’ll find attached to some of our legendary and delightful pet products. Whatever your rallying cry, we’re looking forward to six exciting home games on the fall schedule.

The day is finally here! On August 12th, we kick off the Class of 2025 Plebe Parents’ Weekend and begin a whirlwind of exciting events.

Can’t Wait to See You in September!

With most schools returning to in-person instruction this fall, the teacher’s refrain of “See you in September” has never sounded so sweet. We’re all glad to enjoy a more in-person summer, but that first day of “normal” school is highly anticipated by teachers, parents and students alike this year!

One of the best things about being a midshipman is having my laundry done by the amazing Naval Academy Business Services Division (NABSD) Laundry and Dry Cleaning Facility. These dedicated team members wash and dry clean over 1.5 million pounds of midshipmen clothing and linens per year, including my famous blue and gold blanket.

(Updated July 2021)

Naval history is rich in many ways. From the men and women who have defended our freedoms, to the ceremonies that mark long-standing traditions, to the monuments that recognize their sacrifices, there are constant reminders throughout the Naval Academy Yard of those who have contributed, in incalculable ways, to the defense of our country.

(Updated July 2021)

The United States Naval Academy has experienced tremendous change and advancement throughout its 175 plus years. It has weathered constant transition since it was founded, from the disruptions of the Civil War, to the many modernizations the Academy made during the 20th century, to the ongoing evolution we experience today.

The Yard was built to create leaders. The men and women that train here are our future military leaders, forged by the unending rigor of physical, mental, and moral challenges, trained by some of the best leaders in the country, and called to serve our nation, no matter the circumstances.

Plebe Summer is here! That means the herculean effort of Plebe Issue, preparing the Plebes for summer and beyond in a few short hours, is also here!

The Women’s and Men’s Glee Clubs are just two of the 140+ activities, including club athletic, service, artistic and academic, that the Naval Academy Business Services Division (NABSD) helps to fund. Without your support, NABSD would not be able to provide the level of experience that forms the heart of the USNA extracurricular experience.

Congratulations! Those long years of sacrifice - weekend-long competitions, sports practices and tournaments, unending theater and music rehearsals, and hours of studying, testing, working and pure perseverance - have paid off. Your Plebe has been accepted into one of the most prestigious military academies in the world. Only 8% of applicants make it to this point. We are excited to welcome them to the Yard!

Red for hardiness and valor. White for purity and innocence. Blue for vigilance, perseverance, and justice. These values are the makings of Old Glory.

Summer’s here! It’s a great time to rejuvenate, relax, and ready yourself for all things Navy! While enjoying the outdoors, as well as your deck, porch, or pool, take a look around. You can spice up your view with a myriad of treasures from the Naval Academy and show your pride, service, and support for the Brigade of Midshipmen at the same time.

Here’s a brief history lesson on our famous friend, Bill the Goat. Let’s learn about how he came to be the official mascot of the United States Naval Academy, and what Bill was like in the early years.

It’s been amazing to have the Midshipmen Store renovated in time for Commissioning Week. I’ve been getting my fix at 1845 Coffee every day, and doing the rounds while I snap up some snacks and snag some new spring Navy gear (like a lighter blanket—this winter one is too hot).

Ah, summer is finally on the horizon. It’s time to kick back with some good reading material and finally relax. Whether you’re lounging on your patio, sunning yourself on a beach, or sitting around between baseball games with your nose in a book, you don’t need to GO to the Academy to go to the Academy this summer.

Did you know that, in total, Americans typically eat 7 billion hotdogs between Memorial Day and Labor Day? That’s 818 every. single. second. We are a nation that’s fond of our franks.

(Updated May 2021)

The Plebes at the United States Naval Academy overcome obstacles all throughout their first year, and that year is always capped off with one last great challenge.

If you’re on the Yard just before noon, drop whatever you are doing and get to Tecumseh Court, right outside of Bancroft Hall. Join the crowd to view the impressive noon meal formation. Against the stunning backdrop of the massive Beaux Arts Bancroft Hall, you’ll see thousands of us Midshipmen marching into Tecumseh Court and then standing at perfect attention. The excitement is palpable.

As a newly minted Plebe goat, I’m still learning the ropes (and knots, and rules) of the Brigade of Midshipmen. One of the most fascinating things I’ve found here has been the ranking structure.

As if the nerves of beginning Plebe Summer weren’t tingling enough, today’s the day we’re hoofing it over to the training course to prove ourselves physically ready to remain at the Academy as Midshipmen. That’s right, it's time for the PRT - Physical Readiness Test.

When I hear “Don’t Give Up the Ship,” I feel the pride behind this centuries old phrase. These five words are a rallying cry, a powerful thread running through the Navy’s vast and colorful history, and a song we keep close to our hearts. They’re immortalized in the flag preserved in the USNA Museum, and they run through our blood every day. I have always wanted to know where this storied phrase came from, so I hoofed it over to the museum to look upon the actual threads. Here’s what I found out:

Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (collectively referred to as STEM) are growing fields where students can find exciting and fulfilling careers as we move into a future burgeoning with technology. The USNA enjoys a long history of preparing young adults for service as commissioned officers in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, and proudly offers an annual Summer STEM Program to give 9th-11th graders an opportunity to connect with peers and experience these fields first-hand through a variety of unique projects.

(Updated for March 2021)

If you’re up for truly being challenged, a junior in high school, and have interest in attending the USNA, check out Naval Academy Summer Seminar (NASS) sessions.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the 2021 Summer Seminar sessions will be virtual. This seminar experience isn’t like a summer camp - it's designed for high-achieving high school students that are ready to experience the commitment, discipline, and training it would take to be a Midshipman.

(Updated March 2021)

Podcasts are now a popular and widespread form of communication for both information and entertainment. Their origin dates back to 2004, with Adam Curry and Dave Winer commonly credited with the invention of podcasting, a term coined in an article from The Guardian titled “Audible Revolution.” They’re the interconnected online realm’s adaptation of radio.

(Updated February 2021)

Mention the Dark Ages and the images conjured up frequently resemble a stark, cold, livelihood devoid of mirth and music. The official Dark Ages are defined as the Early Middle Ages, following the collapse of the Roman Empire, when the Goths and Vandals poured into Western Europe and brought violence and destruction with them.

Oohrah!

“The Few. The Proud. The Marines.” This powerful statement defines an elite fighting force. Their path is not easy. They are known for being some of the toughest men and women in the military, and in the world.

The Navy is steeped in tradition and culture. Over centuries of development, the Navy has accumulated many terms that help to keep the tradition and culture true.

The Cyber Operations field has experienced tremendous growth. We rely heavily on the web, telecommunications, and information technology infrastructures to open doors to various positions in the private sector and the government. The field of Cyber Operations is a significant component of our nation’s defense infrastructure within the Navy and Marine Corps.

Winter is here, and the chill outside is staying for a while. Right now, people are trying to stay warm. There are lots of ways to warm up when you're inside, but when it’s time to spend extended periods of time outdoors, it’s important to have the right outerwear.

(Updated January 2021)

Three and a half years after entering the Academy and becoming Midshipmen, prospective Surface Warfare Officers take the first step toward joining the surface fleet. Soon after graduation and commissioning, these Midshipmen report for duty, decked out in their brand-new Summer Whites or Service Dress Blues, with orders in hand. The ship each Midshipman reports to will become their first command, setting the course of their Naval careers.

At the end of the nineteenth century, Colonel Robert Means Thompson commissioned Ernest Flagg, already a renowned architect, to create a design that would revitalize the Naval Academy. His ideas resulted in a Beaux-Arts style design that would make up the heart of the Naval Academy, with the Chapel serving as centerpiece of the design.

Air shows are an opportunity for aviation enthusiasts to not only watch unbelievable aerobatics and airspeed demonstrations, but also get up close and personal with static aircraft displays and pose questions to the flight crew. Often the highlight of the event, drawing in spectators young and old, is the world-renowned Navy Blue Angels flight demonstration squadron.

The United States service academies are institutions of higher learning designed to educate young men and women and also prepare them for the challenging position of serving in the U.S. Armed Forces as highly capable and effective officers.

The creation and development of the U.S. Navy extended over nearly a quarter-century, from the American Revolution to the War of 1812. Despite numerous obstacles, the U.S. Navy established itself as the most powerful fleet on the high seas.

Using familiar military terminology, the student body of the United States Naval Academy is segmented into smaller, functional groups.

For the last several years, the United States Naval Academy has hosted a special Holiday Market event, located in Dahlgren Hall, at this time of year. A spirited and festive occasion, the Holiday Market event allowed Midshipmen to get some gift shopping done for the holiday season, and gave vendors a chance to market to the Brigade. This event will sadly be skipped this year due to safety precautions related to COVID-19.

Memorial buildings, structures, or statues are common sights on the grounds of many institutions. However, it may be interesting to learn, that in addition to memorials and monuments, there are a number of colleges and universities with cemeteries on campus, as well. The United States Naval Academy (USNA) is included in this list, which leads many to wonder who exactly is buried at the Naval Academy cemetery.

The Midshipmen at the United States Naval Academy give 100%, so they need to stay fueled. Our future Navy and Marine Corps Officers deserve an occasional treat. To aid in keeping them motivated and ready, the Naval Academy Business Services Division offers care packages known as Snacker-boxes.

What Is Veterans Day?

Veterans Day originated as "Armistice Day" on November 11th, 1919. It originally commemorated the armistice between the Allied forces and Germany that took place on the "eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month."

The iconic USNA Barber Shop, in the basement of Bancroft Hall, was the subject of some recent renovations. Now looking more sleek and lustrous, the Barber Shop carries both a new, modern image and a rich history.

LEFT TO RIGHT: Vice Admiral Sean Buck, Superintendent; Tammy Barber, USNA Barbershop Manager; Doug Borrebach, Director, Naval Academy Business Services Division; Rondell Williams, USNA Barbershop, Lead Barber; Jennifer Sheppard; Captain Thomas R. Buchanan, USNA Commandant; Paula Clarke, Barber; Captain Thomas M. Feeks, USN (Ret.), Director, Midshipmen Services.

Looking for books to read this fall, winter or to keep busy during quarantine? If you are a Midshipman parent, alum, veteran or just interested in attending the Academy, we have the reading list for you. No matter your preference, you are sure to find something in the following reading list to spark your interest:

The title of Midshipman has its roots in the Royal Navy. Dating back to the 1600s, this category of rank was filled with experienced deckhands promoted to work a specific location amid ships, usually between the main and mizzen masts.

The development of Midshipmen isn’t restricted to formal educational settings. Extracurricular activities and sports clubs play a significant role in building the qualities necessary to become a well-rounded naval officer. The Naval Academy Business Services Division (NABSD) provides support to the Brigade of Midshipmen through sales at Navyonline.

Most organizations establish some form of structural hierarchy that delineate clear lines of authority. Frequently referred to as a chain of command (COC), this structure allows everyone within the system to understand their positional relationship to all others within the organization.

Tecumseh Court sits in front of Bancroft Hall, and in that court stands the statue of Tecumseh, watching over the dorm of the Brigade of Midshipmen. Did you know that it’s not really Tecumseh? The bust is of Tamanend, a chief of the Lenni Lenape. He was known to want peace and friendship, and he is the reason that Pennsylvania exists today, as he signed a treaty with William Penn.

Go Navy! Beat Army! Those words are yelled by Midshipmen throughout the year at the Naval Academy and culminate with the yearly Army-Navy football game, typically held at Lincoln Stadium in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This rivalry between the Midshipmen and Cadets was first played at West Point on November 29, 1890. It was a shutout! There’s no doubt the Midshipmen were cheering raucously as they won the game 24-0.

Honor is just one of many widely used terms in the English language that has multiple meanings.  It is a noun where it represents the concept of a subject deserving great esteem or the strict adherence to a standard of conduct.  Additionally, the word honor also functions like a verb when it refers to the act of conferring or adhering to those same concepts.

The term “club” is related to the Old English noun “clump”.  First used in the 1660s, it referred to a gathering in mass for social discourse or to promote a common interest. It’s a word whose definition has remained largely consistent over the centuries of an evolving language. Today, Merriam-Webster defines it as “an association of persons for some common object usually jointly supported and meeting periodically”.  However, an alternate definition also describes a club as the meeting place of a club of persons. Therefore, a club can be a group of individuals who share a common interest as well as the physical location in which they meet.

There are many reasons we study history and seek out our past. There is the famous, and frequently paraphrased, quote from philosopher George Santayana that, “those who cannot remember their past are condemned to repeat it.” Besides using our past mistakes to make more intelligent decisions in the future, history helps us to understand where we came from, why things change, who we are, and why others are the way they may be. 

As circumstances evolve, so do requirements; and places and spaces are replaced or repurposed to meet current needs. The United States Naval Academy (USNA) is no exception. Throughout the years, the USNA has seen both transformational and preservational changes.

Reefing a sail is employed when a ship’s exposure to heavy winds needs to be controlled.  Reefing a mainsail allows for improved performance and stability in rough weather.  The sail’s reef points are the sturdy ties that secure the unused portion of the sail material to the boom.  These reef points increase helm visibility and prevent the foot of the sail from flopping about uncontrollably.  Skilled sailors rely on a ship’s reefing system to ensure a controlled and safe sail no matter the conditions.

We as a species are fascinated with the past. It’s a curious characteristic of mankind. Our history is something that delivers information, entertainment, and a sense of identity and community. But as intellectually oriented as humans are, oral stories and written descriptions only satisfy our curiosity to a certain point. Nothing brings history to life more than physical remnants of days gone by. Artifacts that we examine with our senses, provide credibility to what might otherwise be dismissed as myth or embellishment. We are drawn to the tangible and often fragile connections to our past like magnets.

Famous quotes rarely come from cowboys, but cowboy-turned-actor, Will Rogers, seemed to have a comprehensive understanding of the human psyche. One of his more well-known quips is, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression”.

English is an imprecise language. Its ambiguities and vagaries lead to varied interpretations. A case in point, the word “home” can have many meanings depending on the context. At the core, its most basic definition is the physical dwelling in which one lives and where possessions are kept.  But “home” may also refer to a physical location or region that one has a relationship with or an affinity to. And two diverse places might be “home” at the same time. The city where one is born or raised can be thought of as “home” as much as an adopted location may be.

Cobblers, the dessert, are the result of true American ingenuity.  Early settlers craving traditional British puddings were forced to pull from whatever items were available in their pantries and throw a similar dish together.  The resulting biscuit and fruit dessert may be what most Americans envision upon hearing the term “cobbler”, however, the original definition of the word has a much longer history. 

The United States Naval Academy (USNA) is more than an institution of higher learning and military instruction. Its 338 acres on the former grounds of Fort Severn are rich in U.S. and Naval history. As such, the entire campus, also known as The Yard, is a designated National Historic Landmark on the country’s list of National Register of Historic Places.

For members of the military, uniform regulations dictate personal appearance to include grooming and hair requirements.  These regulations are not arbitrary or merely time-honored military traditions.  While these regulations have both appearance and functional purposes, they have been able to adapt to the changing demographics of the personnel making up our armed forces.

As most of you know, Bancroft Hall has quite a lot to offer a midshipman - it’s their home while at USNA, their means of grabbing a quick snack, there’s Smoke Hall and much more.  We’re developing a blog series on all the ins and out - and details you might not know - about Bancroft Hall. Our premier blog is about the Steerage Restaurant. 

Beginning in the 16th century, the Oratory of Saint Philip Neri church in Rome achieved notoriety for a unique style of musical religious service. In an effort to instill moral musical entertainment, St. Philip Neri instituted services which included two musical acts separated by a sermon. With a name derived from the church where it originated and the and Latin verb, orare, meaning “to pray”, these performances came to be known as oratorios.

In a letter written by John Paul Jones, he noted that “It is by no means enough that an officer of the Navy should be a capable mariner.  He must be that, of course, but also a great deal more”. The world in which John Paul Jones fought and commanded ships bears little resemblance to the contemporary global environment, yet his view regarding the qualifications a Naval Officer must possess is still relevant today.

Young people who choose to serve their country in the United States military might enlist after high school or enter an officer candidate program after earning a 4-year college degree.  But a select few spend their high school years building an outstanding record of achievement that will make them competitive for an appointment to one of the nation’s military service academies.

It’s been a surprisingly warm winter around the Naval Academy. In the fall we all prepped for the Dark Ages and cold weather at USNA by getting our hands on warm gloves, cozy hats, and thick jackets. We’re all starting to realize we aren’t going to need them for much longer considering it’s been a warm 40-50 degrees over the last couple months. There have been cooler days, but overall we haven’t needed to thoroughly bundle up our children too much this year like we did last year. There’s been no shoveling snow by the midshipmen - or grumpy teenagers - around Annapolis, and I don’t either of them are too upset about that. 

Sir Winston Churchill once famously stated, “Of all the branches of the men in the forces there is none which shows more devotion and faces grimmer perils than the submariners.”

This brave fighting force is the silent service, requiring highly educated and qualified personnel to staff and operate its complex weapons systems undersea. Life aboard these platforms is demanding. Submariners forgo fresh air and natural light, working and living in close quarters to perform their critical duties beneath the seas. The submarine community and its history are celebrated each year at the Submarine Birthday Ball.

On October 10, 1845, Secretary of the Navy George Bancroft established the Naval School.  Opening with 50 midshipmen and seven professors, the original academic program required a five-year course of study. Located on the grounds of former US Army Post, Fort Severn, the United States Naval Academy has experienced incredible changes and evolved throughout its noble history.

Military bands have long been used as a means of communication on the battlefield.  The first documented evidence is found in Sun Tzu’s The Art of War from 2,500 years ago when drums and gongs were used to broadcast orders to troops.

There’s an old saying that an army marches on its stomach. This famous quote has been attributed to both Napoleon Bonaparte and Fredrick the Great, but no matter which military leader first came to this conclusion, its meaning is clear. The intent of the phrase is to convey that the effectiveness of a military force relies on the quality and quantity of the food it is served.  At the US Naval Academy (USNA), the requirement for plentiful and appetizing meals to serve the Brigade of Midshipmen is no different. But what exactly does it take to feed future Naval and Marine Corps Officers? Quite literally tons of food and optimum efficiency.

There’s something magical about musical theater. It keeps the audience on the edge of their seat. At any moment a character might unexpectedly break into song, sharing their innermost emotional turmoil, or ambitions for pulling something over on another character. In other scenes, the entire cast is suddenly in on the action, belting out the same thought as a choral ensemble. While no one ever really publicly breaks into song to get a message across, there is something to love about campy songs with catchy melodies paired with over-the-top storylines.

Black History Month, also known as African American History Month, is an opportunity to highlight and celebrate the achievements and contributions of African Americans. An idea born from Harvard-trained historian Carter G. Woodson and other notable African Americans, its origins date back to 1926. For its debut, a single week spanning the birthdays of both Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass was chosen by the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH) as a proper time to raise awareness regarding the significant role African Americans have played in the nation’s history. Community response to the event proved popular with organizations nation-wide holding their own educational event and celebrations. 

The first video to go viral appeared in 2004, when Gary Brolsma posted his lip-synced Numa Numa Dance. Hilarious, wildly unexpected, and a bit endearing, viewers repeatedly watched and shared the short video of Brolsma gesturing along to the song without abandon. 

Live music provides an energy to performances that recorded tracks are unable to match. And this is precisely what makes a recital such a special event. During a recital, all attention is devoted to the music and the musician. On January 31, musicians and their instruments will take their turn as the stars of the show during the Midshipmen Classical Recital.

It’s chilly here at the U.S. Naval Academy!  We’ve had a little snow and ice, and we’re just in the beginning stages of winter. Let's all take a couple moments to reminisce about warmer, brighter days at the USNA during the spring & summer. Enjoy some fun facts about the USNA extracurricular activities you might not have known about.

The Fine Arts are distinguished from decorative and applied art in that its purpose is to be appreciated for its beauty or aesthetics rather than practicality or function. It consists of art concentrations in classical areas such as painting, sculpture, music, and dance, as well as more modern forms such as photography and film.

With the chaos of Black Friday now behind you, you’ve undoubtedly made significant progress toward obtaining all those big-ticket wishlist items. However, giving should be less about snagging the latest holiday deals and more about finding thoughtful gifts matched perfectly to the recipient.

December brings with it a season of multi-sensory experiences. Twinkling lights softly brighten the night while the scent of freshly baked treats fills the air; but there may be nothing more powerful than music for eliciting the spirit of the season.

Giving back to the Annapolis community is a gesture that midshipmen feel quite strongly about. Being able to volunteer without leaving the campus allows the Brigade greater opportunity to help and serve others. The midshipmen of 6th Company have taken on the duty of arranging an annual holiday tradition, the Giving Tree.

Go Navy! Beat Army! The biggest game of the year is just weeks away, and anticipation for this long-standing, inter-service rivalry matchup is mounting.

“Happy Birthday, Marine!” is a refrain heard throughout the world each November. The birth of this revered fighting force is celebrated with great production, pomp, and tradition every November 10.

Professional conferences provide attendees with a variety of opportunities unavailable in their daily working lives. Not only can participants share and listen to presentations about new research and ongoing work that others in the field are doing, but they can also network with individuals they might not otherwise meet.

Anniversaries are a time to reflect on and celebrate the significance of a particular event. Marking the passage of time, and appreciating how the event has shaped us, helps us to understand who we are and where we have come from. Within the United States Navy family, October is well known for being the month to celebrate the Navy’s birthday, which was established on October 13, 1775. October is also the month in which the United States Naval Academy was established. This year marks the Academy’s 174th anniversary.

As the seasons slowly change from summer to fall, trees transform into kaleidoscopes of magnificent color, and the crisp, cool air seems to summon treasured autumn traditions. Football games, bonfires, apple picking, and pumpkin-spiced lattes all have their enthusiasts, but Halloween is one tradition with devoted fans of all ages.

Visitors to the Naval Academy may have noticed an intricate design cut into the stone above the entrance to Bancroft Hall. The same design can also be found cast in bronze and embedded into the sidewalk near the figurehead of Tecumseh. This is the seal and coat-of-arms representing the United States Naval Academy. 

Few would doubt the significance of music and songs in human history and culture. Songs not only provide entertainment, they tell our stories and convey our emotions. Shared musical experiences are also known to facilitate important social bonding.

With the start of the fall sports season, there is no doubt that midshipmen, parents, and alumni are already eagerly awaiting this year’s Army-Navy football game in December. But there’s far more to the Naval Academy’s fall sports than cheering on the football team. There are a number of other exciting sports teams to join and follow.

The United States Naval Academy has carried on the proud and long-standing military dress parade tradition since its establishment in 1845. Naval Academy parades exhibit the Brigade of Midshipmen’s dedication to military discipline, professionalism, and teamwork vital to their future success as officers serving in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.

For most college students, laundry is a dreaded and frequently avoided chore. Students joke about how clothing collects in large piles until they can scrounge up enough quarters to get it all done at once. However, midshipmen are not typical college students, and their laundry requirements are considerably different.

Welcome to the Navy family, we’re glad you’re here! Whether you are a parent of a plebe or the loved one of a newly accepted incoming midshipman next year, you are now part of a prestigious family valuing honor, courage, and commitment. This journey is steeped in noble history and Naval tradition, and is sure to be filled with endless pride.

Happy Plebe Parents' Weekend to the midshipmen parents of the 2023 class!

Plebe Summer officially begins with Induction Day, the day when candidates and their families descend upon Annapolis and the Naval Academy. It’s an exciting and moving milestone for the incoming class, as they enter military service and say goodbye to loved ones.

Guest Blog Written by Jim Cheevers

The Gatehouses

The two small buildings just inside Gate 3 at Maryland Avenue were constructed in 1876 as gatehouses. The one on the left had an addition put on its back in 1881. These are the only buildings from the 19^th century remaining in the yard, and they have been used, for most of their existence, as gatehouses for the security force assigned to the Naval Academy. This security force has included the yard master-at-arms, the U.S. Marines, the Naval Academy police force, U.S. Navy shore-patrol, and in more recent years, the Department of Defense police.

The long-awaited day has finally arrived. After years of hard work in high school and months of anxiously waiting for the letter of appointment, congratulations are due; it is Induction Day (I-Day) at the United States Naval Academy (USNA)!

The concept of utilizing distinctive dress to identify oneself as a member of a larger group has long been part of human history. Surprisingly, the institution of uniforms for military personnel is a relatively recent development, first appearing in the late 16th and early 17th centuries.

A classroom is the traditional place to acquire knowledge, but some skills are best developed through hands-on experience. Classroom instruction is reinforced and retained when students put it to use. While lessons in maritime topics such as navigation and seamanship may begin in the classroom, they require practical afloat training to be mastered.

The mission of the United States Naval Academy’s Yard Patrol (YP) Squadron is to deliver realistic at-sea training for midshipmen in a realistic environment under the mentorship of qualified personnel.

Our last post took us through the memorable graduation speeches of Presidents Trump, Obama and George W. Bush. We’ll head back to the twentieth century and see some of their predecessors’ words of wisdom to the U.S. Naval Academy graduates. See if they speak to you as well.

On May 24^th, an as-of-yet-unannounced speaker will take the stage at the USNA commencement ceremony, to impart his or her words of wisdom on the future leaders of the Navy and Marine Corps, on a day where they celebrate four long years of self-sacrifice, excellence and perseverance.

Updated May 29, 2019: Watch acting Defense Secretary address the 2019 Naval Academy graduates.

What to Expect

It’s one of the most exciting weeks at the Yard, and it’s quickly approaching. This time of celebration features a series of events that culminate in an incredibly moving graduation ceremony for graduating Midshipmen, who receive both their diplomas and their commissions to serve in the Navy or Marine Corps.

Go Navy Beat St. John’s!

Saturday, April 27th is the big day when Navy will come face to face (or mallet to mallet) with St. John’s for that much awaited annual ritual – the Annapolis Cup – a celebration of competitive croquet, and a sure sign of spring. Tickets for this year’s match are sold out, but you can still get in on the action here. And if you’re twelve or younger, you can always get in for free, no tickets required.

When flags are mentioned, the first one that comes to mind for many is the Stars ‘n Stripes, for which we have such great depth of feeling, and to which so much history is attached. The glory and history of our nation, of course, were achieved many times by the patriotic self-giving of countless Americans who served with one or another branch of our armed forces, each of which has its own flag.

When it comes to knowing your nautical knots, you might find yourself in a bind, fit to be tied. You might even be tempted to turn to the International Guild of Knot Tyers for help (yes, there is one). But fear “knot,” here is a primer on the knots you need to know.

Earlier this month, the USNA’s oldest living alumnus, Retired Rear Admiral Edgar Keats, passed away. He was 104 and an accomplished World War II veteran who served in the Pacific. He and almost 100,000 others have passed through the gates to this hallowed Yard as Midshipmen. They include such luminaries as Jimmy Carter, Major General Charles Bolden, Wendy Lawrence, John McCain, Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz and more. All of these men and women had their USNA experiences captured in the annual USNA yearbook, The Lucky Bag, a tradition that started more than a century ago.

You and your family are huge Navy fans. (Beat Army!) However, this means you have all the gear that naturally comes from being a Navy fan. You have the jerseys, the T-shirts, the jackets. You have the stickers for your car and the Naval Academy license plate frames. What else is there to buy? And since your family is as Navy-strong as you are, you have no idea what to get them for their birthdays, holidays, or even just for fun.

Fret not, fellow Navy fans. Our newly redesigned merch store Navyonline.com has some unique gifts for the Navy fan who has it all! Here are just a few:

Go Navy, Beat Army! Yes, the classic, annual Navy v. Army game…known by USNA fans, Navy fans, and sports fans alike. But did you know there is a rich history of sports, yes even outside of football, at the USNA?

The United States Naval Academy has a very rich history that dates to the 1840’s. However, some people may not know how the USNA got its start. To help, here is a brief history of how the Naval Academy was established and the foundational values on which it was built.