I'm super interested in the Naval Academy, and I keep hearing about Plebe traditions. What are some of the main ones that I should know about if I'm hoping to join?
Absolutely, the U.S. Naval Academy has numerous traditions for its Plebe class (first-year students), many of which are rooted in naval history and discipline. Here are some key Plebe traditions you might encounter:
1. "Plebe Summer": This is the 7-week induction process for new midshipmen during the summer before their freshman year. It's a challenging period that includes physical training, sailing, and learning about naval customs.
2. "Plebe Knowledge": Plebes are required to memorize a booklet of information known as "Reef Points." It includes navy hymns, mission statements, ship and aircraft facts, and famous naval quotations.
3. "Come Arounds": This is a daily routine during which Plebes are asked questions about "Reef Points", current events, orders of the day, or naval principles by upperclassmen.
4. "Noon Meal Formation": Before lunch, all midshipmen gather in formation in Tecumseh Court. Plebes shout out an announcement, weather updates, and special events, ending with "Beat Army!", referencing the academy's historic rivalry with the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.
5. "Climbing Herndon Monument": At the end of the academic year, Plebes participate in a class effort to scale the greased Herndon Monument and replace a Plebe hat at the top with an upperclassman's hat. This is symbolically meant to signal the end of their Plebe year.
6. "2/C Parents' Weekend": Plebes host their parents, demonstrate their accomplishments, and share their experiences at the end of Plebe summer. Parents have the opportunity to meet faculty, staff, and senior leadership, offering a glimpse into academy life.
7. "Plebe Year": Plebe class stands at attention during pass-in-review at all dress parades. Plebes also march in the front rank (first row), symbolizing their entrance into the Brigade of Midshipmen.
Each tradition is designed to foster teamwork, build character, and instill time-honored naval customs and principles in every midshipman. Good luck with your application and potentially becoming a part of these long-standing traditions!
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