NStar Articles

6 min read

Get the Gouge: Naval Terms with History & Mystery

By Bill the Goat on Dec 28, 2023 10:00:00 AM

Summary:

Classic Navy expressions and nautical terms come from centuries of history and maritime tradition, many originating from life aboard sailing ships and still used today at the U.S. Naval Academy and across the Fleet. From military slang and sailor traditions to everyday sayings like “mind your Ps and Qs” and “batten down the hatches,” these terms reflect the culture, discipline, and storytelling that define Navy life and connect generations of sailors and midshipmen.

Spend even a few minutes around the U.S. Naval Academy and you’ll quickly realize the Navy has a language all its own.

Topics: Insider USNA History

2 min read

Founders Day: The Formation of the Naval Academy

By Bill the Goat on Oct 2, 2023 12:53:16 PM

UPDATED FOR 2023

Topics: Insider

3 min read

The History of Noon Meal Formation

By Bill the Goat on Nov 21, 2022 10:00:00 AM

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.

Topics: Insider Midshipmen