What's Commissioning Week like at the Naval Academy?

I'm curious about what happens during Commissioning Week at the Naval Academy. Is it a big event, and what can one expect to experience during this time? Sounds like it might be a pretty significant milestone!

Indeed, Commissioning Week at the United States Naval Academy is certainly an important and momentous event. This week is filled with ceremonies and various activities that mark the end of four rigorous years for the midshipmen at the academy and their transition into roles as commissioned officers.

One main event that takes place during Commissioning Week is the highly anticipated Blue Angels air show, where the legendary flight demonstration squadron performs a number of aerial maneuvers. Additionally, the Naval Academy Glee Club typically puts on a beautiful concert.

Another huge highlight is the Color Parade, which is the oldest parade at the Naval Academy. Once the parade is over, the Color Company, which is the top-performing company throughout the academic year, is recognized and awarded a special color.

Undeniably, the most significant event falls at the end of the week, the Graduation and Commissioning Ceremony. During this event, the midshipmen officially become Ensigns in the U.S. Navy or 2nd Lieutenants in the U.S. Marine Corps. The graduates' families are invited to attend the ceremony.

After this, it's common for the newly commissioned officers to participate in the traditional hat toss, which signifies the end of their time at the academy and the start of their journey as Naval or Marine officers.

It's definitely a week filled with tradition, jubilation, and accomplishment. It serves as a proud and emotional culmination of the midshipmen's hard work over their years at the Naval Academy.