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Plebe Parents Shopping Guide: Welcome to USNA!

Written by Bill the Goat | May 2, 2023 1:00:00 PM

Congratulations! Your daughter or son was accepted into the U.S. Naval Academy. Only 7% of applicants make it to this point, so this is an achievement you can celebrate. We know you’re already proud of the work they put in to get here — late-night study sessions, long hours spent perfecting their sports and activities, their efforts to secure the nomination, and all the tasks they needed to complete to prove they could make it here. Now they are preparing to become plebes, and it is time to show off some of that pride!


For the Parents

 

While there are plenty of spirited U.S. Navy clothing, Navy football gear and other Navy logo-stamped goods on Navyonline.com, moms, dads, grandparents and other plebe guardians will be thrilled to see there are also items designed expressly for them.

USNA Focused Books: A USNA Mom’s Journal by AN Shine is an essential guide for parents of plebes. It covers “From Appointment through Commissioning and Beyond! What You Need to Know.” This book is chock full of tips, tricks and advice about the inner workings of the Naval Academy. Even if you’re familiar with USNA life, you’ll find great insights here.



The Naval Academy: A Parent’s Ponderings from Home Port by Steve Wade traces his observations over the seven years his two daughters (‘19) and (‘22) attended the Naval Academy. He writes, “ Midshipmen accept their Naval Academy appointments, not with hesitation or coercion, but with purpose, to be better leaders and ready to fight when ill winds wish them harm. This book celebrates not only their achievements but also highlights their resilience to overcome challenges inherent to life on the Yard.” It is both encouraging and enlightening.



Navy Guide: You’ll also learn a lot in The Parent’s Guide to the U.S. Navy, which explains how “As their sons and daughters are becoming uniformed, the parents remain uninformed.” As the midshipmen absorb large amounts of military and nautical knowledge, this guide will educate parents and family members on the benefits of being a Sailor, what to expect, how to visit their Sailor and all the specificities that accompany the job: uniforms, ranks, ships, aircraft and more.



Point of Pride: Don’t forget to pick up this proud parent decal to let the world know you have a midshipman. It’s a 10 1/2" x 3" bumper sticker that can live on your car, your computer or wherever you want to tell your exciting story!

This One’s for the Moms


USNA Moms are a tight-knit group, known for their constant support and care. Navyonline.com has many items made specifically for Navy Moms, from decals, to magnets, to key straps and more!

USNA Mom Key Tag: This solid Arlington Mom key tag is constructed with stainless steel so it’s incredibly strong. The “USNA Mom” is boldly wrought so you can show your love all the time. It’s the perfect size for your keys — simple to find in a purse yet compact enough to store. Carry your love for your plebe wherever you go!


Navy Mom Tumbler: Speaking of carrying Navy love, this soft touch Navy Mom 18 oz tumbler is a very practical way to show your Navy spirit while enjoying your favorite beverage. With a soft gold background and the charging Bill, it’s classic USNA, and the “Mom” lets everyone know you’re a proud Navy Mama. Double walled for hot or cold drinks, it’s built to fit in cup holders and it’s almost as tough as your plebe.


USNA Mom Tee Shirt: Pick up this USNA Mom women's crew tee in either gray or navy. Crafted with soft cotton and double-needle stitching, it’s built to last. With 10% polyester, it has a little stretch for a fit that’s fabulous. Wear your Navy heart around town, for your workouts, on hikes, wherever you please. You’re bound to hear someone say, “Great shirt, Go Navy!” 

This One’s for the Dads

 

Like Navy Moms, Navy Dads are a supportive stock. They stick by their plebe through thick and thin, and are excited to see the next phase in their journey unfold. To celebrate Navy Dads, we have decals, magnets, keychains and tumblers. And more…

USNA Dad Tee Shirt: You can never have enough great Navy gear. We make a Dad’s Navy shirt like the Navy Mom one. Wherever you sport this 100% cotton*, preshrunk jersey body comfy tee, you’ll be beaming with pride for your plebe.


USNA Dad Key Strap: Use this USNA Dad key strap to wrangle your keys. The sublimated wristlet lets you carry it easily on your wrist when you’re out for a walk or wherever. The anchor logo and “USNA Dad” clearly show your loyalties. Your plebe makes you proud; make them proud as you wear your heart on your sleeve.


USNA Dad Decal: Your son or daughter is finally going to the Naval Academy, after years of working towards this goal. Put this Dad decal on your car to make it official. Made to weather the weather, it’s a sign you can be proud of for years to come.

More in Store


Don’t forget the grandparents! They are proud too. They would probably be tickled pink by a Grandparent decal for their car — or a USNA Grandparent shirt or hat.

You can shop for your plebe too. We have a wide assortment of U.S. Navy clothing, like U.S. Navy jackets, U.S. Navy sweatpants (womens and mens) and more. Did you know that when you shop at Navyonline.com or the USNA Gift Shop or USNA Midshipmen Store that all proceeds go to the midshipmen? Every purchase you make helps the Brigade here. Even your dining, tours and other purchases help the midshipmen with their activities, uniforms, meals and so much more. We appreciate your support and are excited to welcome you to the Yard. May this year be the beginning of an exciting and enriching journey for you both. Go Navy and Anchors Aweigh!