NStar Articles

What do you buy for the institution that’s turning 178 years old this month? More importantly, what do you buy for the USNA alumni, midshipmen, and family that celebrate this invaluable institution? October 10th marks the U.S. Naval Academy’s official birthday, as it was founded in Annapolis on October 10, 1845. For almost two centuries, the Academy has educated some of the best and brightest our nation’s military has had the privilege of training. Here, we honor that tradition of excellence with some well-curated birthday gifts to celebrate its storied history and unwavering dedication to our nation.

UPDATED FOR 2023

November 12, 2022 had already been a long and exciting day for the USNA club karate team, Navy Karate, at the American Kyokushin International Tournament in Holley, New York. Then-President, Midshipman LTJG Larah Alberto, stepped onto the mat for her last fight of the night. She faced an exceedingly tough opponent, a woman who had just prevailed over Alberto’s fellow teammate, and now the fight was intense, rising to a crescendo of heavy body blows on both sides. As current Navy Karate Vice President Dylan Steidley tells it, “Then out of the corner of the room, someone from the audience yelled "Go Navy!" Larah kicked it (literally) into high gear, throwing a flurry of solid strikes and kicks in quick succession with considerable power, pushing her opponent out of the ring, and winning the fight.”