What are some interesting facts about the United States Naval Academy?

I've been looking into the U.S. Naval Academy and would love to know some intriguing or lesser-known facts about it. What makes the academy unique compared to other institutions? Any insights would be appreciated as I consider my options.

The United States Naval Academy (USNA), also known popularly as Annapolis, is indeed a unique and prestigious institution with a history that dates back to its establishment in 1845. Here are some interesting and lesser-known facts about the academy:

1. USNA's campus: The Naval Academy is located in Annapolis, Maryland, and is known for its scenic beauty, historic architecture, and waterfront location. The campus itself is called "the Yard".

2. The Honor Concept: Unlike many other institutions, the USNA does not have a written honor code for their midshipmen students. Instead, it has an unwritten Honor Concept that states, "Midshipmen are persons of integrity: They stand for which is right." This concept is deeply ingrained in the academy's ethos.

3. Graduation Traditions: The USNA has distinctive traditions associated with graduation. One of these is the symbolic "hat toss", where graduates throw their midshipman covers in the air after the final dismissal. The "Cover Swap", wherein children from the crowd race to pick up a hat, is also popular. The idea is that the child who gets the hat from the newly commissioned Ensign or Second Lieutenant will be destined for the military or the Naval Academy.

4. Professional Training: Apart from your typical college education, the USNA places a huge emphasis on leadership and professional training. This includes summer programs that provide midshipmen the opportunity to serve on ships, submarines, fly airplanes, and even jump out of them (skydiving)!

5. The Regiment: Midshipmen march to lunch in formation each weekday - a practice not commonly seen at conventional schools.

6. Distinguished Alumni: The academy boasts impressive alumni, including Nobel laureates, astronauts, and even former Presidents of the United States like Jimmy Carter.

7. Service Assignment: Senior Midshipmen (also known as Firsties) receive their "service assignment" on Service Assignment Day in late November, where they find out whether they will be heading for Navy Surface, Submarine, Air, SpecWar, or Marines.

8. Service Commitment: Following graduation, midshipmen must serve at least five years of active duty in the Navy or Marine Corps in return for their education.

Hopefully, these facts will help you understand the unique aspects of life at the Naval Academy and factors into your considerations. It's not your typical college experience, but it can be a truly rewarding path!