Interesting Facts About the Naval Academy

I’m curious about what makes the Naval Academy unique. Are there any interesting facts or traditions that set it apart from other military academies? Looking to learn more before deciding if I should apply.

Absolutely! The United States Naval Academy (USNA), located in Annapolis, MD, stands out for a variety of reasons. Here are some aspects that help distinguish it:

1. Herndon Monument Climb: Probably one of the most noteworthy traditions at the Naval Academy is the annual Herndon Monument Climb. The plebes (freshmen) all work together to hoist a plebe to the top of a monument greased with lard to replace a plebe hat ("dixie cup") on top of the monument with an upperclassman's hat. It's seen as a symbolic transition from plebe to upperclassman status.

2. The Naval Academy is a National Historic Landmark: The Naval Academy is not only an iconic institution but also a National Historic Landmark. It occupies over 300 acres of land and contains a number of 19th-century buildings which are still in use today.

3. Underwater Acoustics Lab: The Naval Academy has the only Underwater Acoustics lab for teaching midshipmen how sonar works and applying those lessons. This lab allows midshipmen to gain hands-on experience that will be beneficial for their future in the Navy.

4. Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium: Known simply as "Memorial Stadium," it's where the Navy football team hosts its home games. The walls around the stadium are adorned with names of naval and marine battles engraved, serving as a constant reminder to midshipmen and fans alike of the military history and heritage of the United States.

Remember, while these are some unique aspects of the Naval Academy, be sure you also consider the academic offerings, extracurricular opportunities, and military commitments when deciding whether to apply. Best of luck with your decision!