About this Unit
The United States Naval Academy (USNA), established in 1845 in Annapolis, Maryland, serves as the undergraduate college for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Founded during a period of naval reform, the Academy was created to provide rigorous academic and military training to future naval officers. Throughout its history, USNA graduates have played vital roles in every major American conflict, from the Civil War to modern-day operations. Renowned for its traditions, honor code, and leadership development, the Naval Academy remains a cornerstone in shaping the Navy and Marine Corps’ leadership.
Historical Facts
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Founded in 1845: The United States Naval Academy (USNA) was established in Annapolis, Maryland, in 1845 to train officers for the U.S. Navy after the War of 1812 exposed the need for standardized naval education.
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Originally a Naval School: The institution was initially called the Naval School. It became the United States Naval Academy in 1850, expanding its curriculum to four years.
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Civil War Relocation: During the Civil War, the Academy was temporarily moved to Newport, Rhode Island, to keep it safe from Confederate forces.
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Graduates in the White House: USNA has produced two U.S. Presidents: Jimmy Carter (Class of 1947) and Chester W. Nimitz, who served as Chief of Naval Operations during WWII, was also an alumnus.
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Home of the Midshipmen: Students at the Naval Academy are called "midshipmen." The term dates back to the 17th century Royal Navy, referring to young officers-in-training.
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Famous Rivalry: The annual Army–Navy football game, first played in 1890, is one of college football’s oldest and most storied rivalries.
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Historic Chapel and Crypt: The USNA Chapel is the final resting place of Commodore John Paul Jones, a Revolutionary War hero, whose crypt is a prominent Academy landmark.
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Brigade of Midshipmen: All 4,400 students live, eat, and train together as one Brigade, fostering unity and leadership development.
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Notable Alumni: Graduates include 54 astronauts (more than any other undergraduate institution), 73 Medal of Honor recipients, and numerous admirals and generals.
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Traditions and Rituals: The "Herndon Monument Climb" marks the end of plebe (freshman) year, when students scale a greased monument to replace a plebe hat with an upperclassman’s hat.
