If you’re on the Yard just before noon, drop whatever you’re doing and get to T-Court, right outside of Bancroft Hall. Join the crowd to view the impressive noon meal formation. Against the stunning backdrop of Bancroft Hall, you’ll see thousands of midshipmen enter T-Court and then stand at perfect attention.
The Excitement Is Palpable
This tradition started in 1905 to keep track of midshipmen, and it’s an evolution of the way in which troops were mustered, or assembled for roll call, during the Civil War. Today’s version is more for pageantry than practicality, but it is just as important. Midshipmen assemble into the six battalions comprising the Brigade. Outfitted in full uniform, some aim long swords toward the ground. They all stand at attention as each battalion announces its presence. With a loud and strong, "1st Battalion all present or accounted for," the opening line inspires a series of coordinated, crisp motions. The other battalions follow suit, all announcing their presence in the same manner, with the same motions, to the delight of the crowd.
Once this ceremony is complete, the USNA band (or the Drum and Bugle Corps) breaks into the Naval Academy’s jaunty anthem and fight song, “Anchors Aweigh,” and then the powerful Marines’ Hymn, “The Halls of Montezuma.” They’ve also been known to play other songs, including the theme song from Top Gun (on bagpipes, no less). It’s enough to give you goosebumps.
The midshipmen leadership are dismissed after their battalions, and the band is the last to turn and march into Bancroft Hall, the largest dormitory in the U.S. They all move in perfect unison toward King Hall for lunch, which is another beautifully orchestrated event. Imagine feeding a crowd that size, all at once, in a brief lunch period!
Related: Behind the Scenes: Feeding the Masses at King Hall
How Do I See the Noon Meal Formation?
Although this happens every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday at noon (weather permitting) during the academic year, and also throughout Plebe Summer, one recent bystander said, “It never gets old.” We agree! When winter starts, the formation goes on hiatus. Its return marks an anticipated sign of spring’s arrival in Annapolis. The midshipmen shake off the rust and practice again before the first noon ceremony.
If you want to catch this incredible USNA tradition, hop on a tour at the Armel-Leftwich Visitor Center. The 11:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 11:45 a.m. guided walking tours will make sure to bring you to T-Court to find a good viewing spot if there is a noon formation that day. Try to get here about ten minutes before noon to secure the best vantage point, as the crowds tend to be big. The entire event takes just eight minutes, but it is sure to put a little pep in your step and brighten your entire day.
This event is just a taste of the thrilling USNA traditions and pageantry you can see on the Yard. There are many different parades that the Brigade of Midshipmen performs throughout the year, and they are always incredibly inspiring and uplifting!
Related: What Is a Formal USNA Parade?
Support the Midshipmen!
When you visit the Yard, you’re giving back to the midshipmen who give their all for our country. All USNA tours, dining, and shopping on the Naval Academy campus help fund extracurricular activities like cultural arts, music, theater, club sports, and more that build teamwork and camaraderie among the Brigade.
Come check out the noon meal formation and the parades. Book a Naval Academy tour to get the entire experience. And if you’ve already explored the Naval Academy campus, what are your favorite spots and events?
