What happens during Naval Academy Commissioning Week?

I'm really curious about what goes on during Commissioning Week at the Naval Academy. What events are held, and what's the overall vibe? Is it mostly for families, or do students really get involved as well?

Commissioning Week at the U.S. Naval Academy is truly a highlight of the academic year. It's a week packed with traditions, ceremonies, and festivities, held in late May to celebrate the graduating class as they transition from midshipmen to commissioned officers in the Navy or Marine Corps.

The week kicks off with formal events such as the Herndon Monument Climb, where the plebes (freshmen) work together to climb a 21-foot obelisk covered in lard. They strive to replace the plebe hat or "dixie cup" at the top of the monument with an upperclassman's hat, signifying the end of their plebe year.

Throughout the week, various ceremonies are organized. These include Color Parades, in which the whole Brigade of Midshipmen marches in full regalia, and Awards Ceremonies, recognizing the achievements of the graduating class.

One of the memorable events is the Blue Angels Flight Demonstration. Everyone looks forward to the iconic aerial show performed by the U.S. Navy's flight demonstration squadron, a spectacle that can be seen across Annapolis.

By far the most significant event of the week is the Graduation and Commissioning Ceremony itself, held at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. The graduates receive their diplomas, and those who choose a commissioning path are sworn into their respective services. The ceremony closes with a stirring tradition - the “hat toss,” where new officers throw their midshipmen covers into the air to celebrate their commissioning.

While families of midshipmen are definitely heavily involved, the graduating students are at the heart of the proceedings, with many events dedicated to commemorating their journey. It's a chance for them to honor the hard work they've put into their education and celebrate their achievements.

The atmosphere is one of collective pride and relief mixed with anticipation for the future. So, it's a time of both reflection and celebration for all involved - the students, their families, and the entire Academy community.