NStar Articles

The U.S. Naval Academy is a special place - and a bit of a hybrid. It’s certainly not your typical college, though it has a vibrant academic curriculum, bustling dining hall, busy quadrangle, and cadre of devoted faculty and students. It’s also not quite the U.S Naval Fleet or the U.S. Marine Corps, but it does require rigorous military training and exercises, uniforms, and an oath of office. So it’s an amalgamation of both, with a unique and proud culture and a passionate group of people who make it both demanding and welcoming at the same time.

The Fourth of July in Annapolis is a festivity to remember. With a colorful parade through the bricked streets, a sea of boats bobbing in the harbor awaiting the fireworks, and everyone celebrating our nation’s 248th birthday with ice cream, cupcakes, BBQ and other treats, it’s a not-to-be-missed summer event.

Wow what a week! Commissioning Week is the culmination of four years of hard work, determination, team-building, leadership lessons, and the amazing transformation from a civilian to a naval officer. But it is even more than that. The emotional ties midshipmen have made here during their four years will live on and only strengthen with time, as they go on to serve our country alongside many of their classmates and mentors. We applaud their tremendous accomplishments and congratulate them on the beginning of an exciting career!