The United States Naval Academy, located in Annapolis, Maryland, is steeped in rich traditions that reflect the Navy’s storied history and values. From the moment midshipmen step onto the Yard, they become part of a legacy that dates back to the Academy’s founding in 1845. These traditions not only connect the past with the present but also play a vital role in shaping the character and spirit of future naval officers.
The Plebe Summer: A Rite of Passage
One of the most iconic traditions at the Naval Academy is Plebe Summer. This rigorous training program for incoming first-year students, known as plebes, marks their transition from civilian life to the disciplined world of the Navy. During this challenging seven-week period, plebes learn the fundamentals of military life, including physical fitness, seamanship, and discipline. The intense training serves as a rite of passage, fostering resilience, teamwork, and leadership among the new cadets.
Throughout Plebe Summer, plebes undergo various physical and mental challenges designed to push them to their limits. This period is essential for building the foundation of camaraderie and mutual respect that will carry them through their time at the Academy and into their naval careers. The tradition of Plebe Summer is a testament to the Academy’s commitment to excellence and the development of future naval leaders.
The Herndon Monument Climb: Celebrating Teamwork and Perseverance
The Herndon Monument Climb is one of the most anticipated events for plebes at the Naval Academy. This annual tradition takes place at the end of the academic year and marks the end of Plebe Year. The goal for the plebes is to work together to replace the plebe “Dixie cup” hat at the top with an upperclassman’s hat.
The Herndon Climb is more than just a physical challenge; it is a symbol of perseverance, teamwork, and determination that are central to the Navy’s ethos. The event also represents the transition from plebe to midshipman, as the successful completion of the climb is followed by the formal recognition of the plebes as fourth-class midshipmen. The Herndon Climb is a tradition that embodies the spirit of the Naval Academy and the values it seeks to instill in its cadets.
The Honor Concept: Upholding Integrity and Ethical Conduct
The Honor Concept is a cornerstone of life at the Naval Academy. This tradition underscores the importance of integrity, honesty, and ethical conduct among midshipmen. The Honor Concept states, “Midshipmen are persons of integrity: They stand for that which is right. They tell the truth and ensure that the truth is known. They do not lie, cheat, or steal.”
The tradition of the Honor Concept serves as a constant reminder of the high standards of conduct expected of maritime officers and the importance of leading by example.
The Brigade of Midshipmen: A Living Tradition
The Brigade of Midshipmen, also known as the Brigade, is a central feature of life at the Naval Academy. This structure mirrors the organization of a naval fleet and provides midshipmen with valuable leadership and teamwork experience.
The Brigade participates in various ceremonies and parades throughout the year, showcasing the discipline, precision, and professionalism of the midshipmen. These events, such as the formal dress parades and the daily noon meal formation, are steeped in tradition and serve as a reminder of the Academy’s military heritage. The Brigade of Midshipmen is a living tradition that reinforces the values of duty, honor, and service to the nation.
The Army-Navy Game: A Fierce Rivalry
One of the most storied traditions at the Naval Academy is the annual Army-Navy football game. This fierce rivalry between the United States Military Academy at West Point and the Naval Academy dates back to 1890 and is one of the most anticipated events in college football. The game is more than just a contest between two teams; it is a celebration of the values and traditions of the nation’s service academies.
The Army-Navy game is a showcase of the determination, spirit, and resilience that define the men and women of the armed forces. The game itself is fiercely competitive, with both teams vying for the coveted Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy.
The Ring Dance: A Symbol of Commitment
The Ring Dance is a cherished tradition at the Naval Academy, held annually for the junior class. During this formal event, midshipmen receive their class rings, a symbol of their commitment to the Navy and their impending transition to the role of naval officers. The Ring Dance is a significant milestone in a midshipman’s life, representing the culmination of their hard work and dedication.
The tradition of the Ring Dance includes a ceremonial dip of the class ring into a bowl of water collected from the seven seas, symbolizing the Navy’s global reach and the midshipmen’s commitment to service. The event is a time of celebration and reflection as midshipmen prepare to enter their final year at the Academy and look forward to their future careers as naval officers.
The Chapel: A Place of Reflection and Tradition
The Naval Academy Chapel, with its stunning dome and commanding presence on the Yard, is a place of reflection and tradition for midshipmen. The Chapel is the site of numerous ceremonies, including weddings, baptisms, and memorial services, and it holds a special place in the hearts of many Academy graduates.
One of the most poignant traditions associated with the Chapel is the Sunday morning service, where midshipmen gather for worship and reflection. The service includes the singing of hymns, prayers, and a sermon, and it serves as a time for midshipmen to recharge and refocus on their mission. The Chapel is also home to the crypt of John Paul Jones, the father of the American Navy, whose legacy continues to inspire future generations of naval officers.
The March-On: Displaying Discipline and Unity
The March-On is a tradition that showcases the discipline and unity of the Brigade of Midshipmen. This ceremonial event takes place during football games, particularly the Army-Navy game. The Brigade marches onto the field in formation, displaying the precision and professionalism that are hallmarks of the Naval Academy.
The March-On is more than just a display of military discipline; it is a symbol of the unity and camaraderie that bind the midshipmen together. As they march in perfect formation, the midshipmen demonstrate their commitment to the Navy’s values and dedication to serving the nation. The tradition of the March-On is a powerful reminder of the importance of teamwork and the shared sense of purpose that defines life at the Naval Academy.
Preserving a Legacy of Honor and Service
The traditions of the United States Naval Academy are more than just rituals; they are the embodiment of the values, history, and spirit of the Navy. From Plebe Summer to the Army-Navy game, these traditions connect the past with the present and ensure that the legacy of the Academy endures for future generations. As midshipmen participate in these time-honored customs, they are reminded of their responsibility to uphold the highest standards of honor, integrity, and service to the nation.