Official daily newsletter of the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation
Today in Navy, Marine Corps
and USNA Memorial Hall History
|
|
1967 - During a ground test at Cape Kennedy, Florida, a fire caused by a spark in the pure-oxygen environment of the Apollo I space capsule kills three astronauts, including Lieutenant Commander Roger B. Chaffee.
1973 - Twenty-four days after the resumption of peace talks in Paris, France, United States and North Vietnamese negotiators sign an agreement declaring a cease-fire. The terms of the agreement also include the return of all Americans held as prisoners of war and the withdrawal of the remaining American forces in South Vietnam within 60 days.
1989 - LT Richard Dempsey, Jr. '82, USN was lost when the F-14 Tomcat he was aboard crashed in the Arizona desert. Richard was the radar intercept officer; the pilot was also killed. They were flying from San Diego to New Orleans. Oxygen deprivation may have contributed to the crash. They were members of Fighter Squadron (VF) 114. “Rick” was the son of a retired Navy commander, and had earned his surface warfare officer's pin before beginning flight training. He was survived by his wife, two young daughters and his parents.
|
|
Academy & Graduate happenings
|
|
USNA/NSAA will be closed on Tuesday, 27 January
|
|
The Naval Academy continues to address significant weather impacts to the yard. NSA Annapolis will only be operating Mission Essential services exclusively Tuesday. Gate 1 will be closed for all vehicular traffic. Visitor Access Center will be available for pedestrian access with adjusted hours 0800 - 2000. Gate 8 will be open for vehicles & pedestrians.
Additionally, the Fluegel Alumni Center will be closed, but staff are available via email for any questions or concerns. Updates will be available on USNA AA&F social media.
|
|
Thank you, South Carolina!
|
|
More than 150 alumni, parents and friends joined USNA AA&F during our South Carolina Road Show from 22–25 January. From Greenville to Charleston—with stops in Columbia, Bluffton and Aiken—we were grateful to everyone who came out, even as ice storms moved across parts of the state. The roadshow brought together generations of the USNA family, from CDR Robert “Fuzzy” Knight '53, USNR (Ret.), to LT Jeanette Steerman '21, USN and LT Maya White '21, USN, plus parents representing classes from 1999 to 2030. At every stop, we reaffirmed our commitment to meeting alumni, families and friends where they are, sharing updates on Alumni Association programs and services and highlighting the impact of philanthropy on the Yard. We also gathered powerful stories for upcoming Shipmate features, including the 25th anniversary of 9/11, alumni who served in the Global War on Terror, 50 Years of Women at USNA and unique alumni collections. Next month, the roadshow heads to Chattanooga, Knoxville and Nashville—hope to see you there!
|
|
ICYMI: The Sing Second Podcast team joined Historic Annapolis for 50 Years of Women exhibit in downtown Annapolis
|
|
Last Friday, Historic Annapolis's Community Gallery was alive with excitement as the new exhibition Trailblazers: 50 Years of Women at USNA was unveiled. The event drew a full house of alumni, friends and supporters from across the Naval Academy and Annapolis community, all coming together to celebrate five decades of history, achievements and milestones. Visitors explored the gallery's compelling photographs and stories, spoke with alumnae on the podcast and recognized the team who brought the exhibition to life. The exhibit is now open to the public at Historic Annapolis through May—an inspiring look at the history and legacy that continues to shape the Naval Academy today.
|
|
From Top Gun to Hanoi Hilton - A POW's survival story
|
|
In this episode of The Naval Aviation Ready Room Podcast, experience an extraordinary journey into one of naval aviation's most profound stories as former POW CAPT Charlie Plumb '64, USN (Ret.) recounts his 2,103 days of captivity in North Vietnam. From ingenious communication methods and maintaining faith under extreme circumstances to crafting measuring devices from light bulbs, Plumb's account offers powerful lessons in resilience, leadership and human ingenuity. In this candid conversation with host CAPT Ryan Keys '95, USN (Ret.), Plumb reveals how military training, community bonds, and unwavering spirit helped POWs not just survive but thrive through unimaginable challenges.
|
|
Government & Military News
|
|
How a purge of China's military leadership could impact the army and the future of Taiwan
|
|
China made a major announcement over the weekend, saying it was investigating the army's top general for suspected serious violations of discipline and law. Gen. Zhang Youxia was the highest military member just below President Xi Jinping. The Defense Ministry said Saturday that authorities were investigating Zhang, the senior of the two vice chairs of the powerful Central Military Commission, China's top military body, and Gen. Liu Zhenli, a lower member of the commission who was in charge of the military's Joint Staff Department.
|
|
Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group now in U.S. Central Command
|
|
The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group is now in the Middle East, having been redirected from its Indo-Pacific deployment to the region in recent weeks as tensions with Iran increase, USNI News has learned. Aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) had chopped into the U.S. 5th Fleet as of Monday, a defense official confirmed to USNI News. Abraham Lincoln brings with it the striking power of embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 and destroyers USS Frank E. Petersen, Jr. (DDG-121), USS Spruance (DDG-111) and USS Michael Murphy (DDG-112). ( Story)
|
|
Select Marines who reenlist could be eligible for a $50,000 bonus
|
|
Marines who choose to reenlist in fiscal year 2027 could be eligible for up to $50,000 in selective retention bonus kickers, the service announced. Those with a current contract expiration between 1 October 2026 and 30 September 2027 could be eligible for the Selective Retention Bonus Program and the Broken Service SRB Program, according to a recent MarAdmin. “It is imperative the Marine Corps builds upon past successes and continues to prioritize retaining the best and most talented Marines,” the memo reads. Marines who reenlist on the day of or following the release of the message are eligible for the SRB for FY27, per the message. The service is offering seven SRB kickers in that fiscal year.
|
|
Local, Education & other academy news
|
|
Hardebeck '83 assumes role as Chief Technology Officer at KCI Technologies
|
|
Jason Hardebeck '83 has stepped into his new position of leading the KCI Technologies strategy and integration. His responsibilities will include overseeing enterprise systems and business processes, guiding sector-specific technology and artificial intelligence initiatives and directing the digital transformation office, the innovation incubator, and the technology sharing committee. “With his experience serving on KCI's Board of Directors, Jason brings a strong, established relationship with our senior leadership team and a comprehensive understanding of our operations. This background uniquely positions him to guide our technological strategy, drive innovation, and ensure our solutions continue to align with the firm's vision and goals,” said Christopher Griffith, Chairman of the Board and CEO.
|
|
Annapolis Restaurant Week 2026: The ultimate foodie event you can't miss — indulge in gourmet dining at unbeatable prices!
|
|
Annapolis, the charming capital of Maryland, is not only known for its rich history and scenic waterfront, but also for its vibrant food scene. One of the most exciting events to look forward to in this city is Annapolis Restaurant Week, a 10-day food and dining festival that runs from 21 February to 1 March 2026. This annual event brings together local residents and visitors alike to indulge in specially priced meals from over 30 participating restaurants across the city and Anne Arundel County. Whether you're a seafood lover, a fan of international cuisine or someone looking to explore local culinary gems, Annapolis Restaurant Week promises an unforgettable dining experience that will tantalise your taste buds and warm your heart.
|
|
AFA Alum Popovich gets his own Falcon bobble head
|
|
Former San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich is getting his own bobblehead. Pop's alma mater, the Air Force Academy, will honor him with "Popovich Bobblehead Day" on 21 February against UNLV. The figure will feature him in an Air Force Academy jacket, with the box showing him in his Air Force basketball uniform.
|
|
Naval Academy Athletics News & Results
|
|
Navy leads 7-4-1 (Army - Volleyball, Men's Soccer, Women's Rugby, Women's Cross Country. Navy - Men's Golf, Men's Cross Country, Sprint Football, Men's Rugby, Men's and Women's Swimming, Football. Tie - Women's Soccer)
Reminder - The Star Series schedule will return to the Daily Shipmate schedule February 2nd as there are no Star matchups in January. Beat Army!
Remaining Star Matchups:
7 Feb - Rifle - West Point - 9:00 a.m.
7 Feb - Gymnastics - Annapolis - 2:00 p.m.
7 Feb - M. Indoor Track & Field - Annapolis - TBA
7 Feb - W. Indoor Track & Field - Annapolis - TBA
20 Feb - Wrestling - Annapolis - 7:30 p.m. - Alumni Hall
21 Feb - W. Basketball - West Point - 11:00 a.m.
21 Feb - M. Basketball - West Point - 1:30 p.m.
27-29 Mar - Baseball - West Point - TBA
4 Apr - W. Tennis - Annapolis - 11:00 a.m.
11 Apr - M. Outdoor Track & Field - West Point - TBA
11 Apr - W. Outdoor Track & Field - West Point - TBA
11 Apr - M. Lacrosse - West Point - TBA
11 Apr - W. Lacrosse - Annapolis - 12:00 p.m.
18 Apr - M. Tennis - Annapolis - 1:00 p.m.
|
|
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
MARCH
- 6 Mar – U.S. Naval Academy Athletic & Scholarship Policy Review Committee Meeting, Bastian
- 7–15 Mar – U.S. Naval Academy Spring Break
- 7 Mar – USNA Glee Club Spring Performance – USS Constitution - 11 a.m.
- 7 Mar – USNA Glee Club Spring Performance – St. Cecilia Parish Church, 18 Belvidere Street, Boston, MA – 7:30 p.m.
- 7 Mar - Naptown Events St. Patrick's Day Parade Hooley - Fluegel Alumni Center - 5:00 p.m.
- 8 Mar – USNA Glee Club Spring Performance – St Mary / St Catherine of Siena, 46 Winthrop Street, Charlestown, MA – 3 p.m.
- 10 Mar – USNA Glee Club Spring Performance – Naval War College, Spruance Auditorium, 686 Cushing Road, Newport, RI – 7 p.m.
- 12 Mar – USNA Glee Club Spring Performance – St. Ignatius Loyola, 980 Park Avenue, New York, NY – 8 p.m.
- 14 Mar – USNA Glee Club Spring Performance – St. Patrick's Church, 242 S 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA – 7 p.m.
- 11–15 Mar – AA&F Engagement Roadshows – St. Louis Chapter + NAPCs of Greater St. Louis, Eastern MO and So IL; KC Metro Chapter + NAPC of Kansas & Missouri; Wichita Chapter + NAPC of Kansas & Missouri; Omaha Chapter + NAPC of Nebraska; NAPC of Iowa
- 13 Mar – Alumni Association Travel Showcase
- 16 Mar – Beyond Commissioning Event, location TBD
- 23 Mar – Beyond Commissioning Event, location TBD
- 27 Mar – Council of Annual Giving Spring Meeting, TBD
- 27 Mar – U.S. Naval Academy Athletic & Scholarship Executive Committee Meeting, Bastian
APRIL
- 10 Apr – Athletic & Scholarship Program, Spring Trustee Mtg, NMCMS
- 10 Apr – U.S. Naval Academy Spring Formal Parade, Worden Field
- 10 April – USNA Glee Club and Pipes and Drums Salute to America's 250th with Dallas Symphony Orchestra in Dallas, TX – 7:30 p.m.
- 11 April – USNA Glee Club and Pipes and Drums Salute to America's 250th with Dallas Symphony Orchestra in Dallas, TX – 7:30 p.m.
- 12 April – USNA Glee Club and Pipes and Drums Salute to America's 250th with Dallas Symphony Orchestra in Dallas, TX – 2 p.m.
- 16–19 Apr – 50 Years of Women at USNA Celebration Conference and Gala, Fluegel Alumni Center
- 17 Apr – U.S. Naval Academy Spring Formal Parade, Worden Field
- 18 Apr – Annapolis Cup Navy Croquet vs St Johns, St Johns College
- 22 Apr - Bonds of Gold Ceremony - FAC
- 23 - 26 Apr - AA&F Engagement Roadshows - Arizona Chapter + NAPC of Arizona (Phoenix); Southern Arizona Chapter + NAPC of Arizona (Tucson); Northern Arizona Chapter + NAPC of Arizona (Flagstaff); New Mexico Chapter (Albuquerque); Intermountain Chapter + NAPC of Utah (SLC)
- 24 Apr – U.S. Naval Academy Dedication Parade, Worden Field
- 24 Apr – Council of Annual Giving Spring Meeting
- 24–26 Apr – Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show
- 26 Apr – Navy SEAL Foundation Annapolis Frogman Swim – Severn River – 8:30 a.m.
- 28 Apr – Council of Class Presidents Spring Meeting
- 29 Apr – AA & FDN Board of Directors & Trustees Joint Session
- 29 Apr – AA&FDN Board of Directors & Trustee Welcome Reception
- 29 Apr – USNA Capstone Senior Project Day, Various Locations
- 30 Apr – U.S. Naval Academy Foundation Spring Board of Directors Meeting, Fluegel Alumni Center
- 30 Apr – U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association Board of Trustees Committee Meeting, Fluegel Alumni Center
- 30 Apr – U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association Board of Trustees Welcome Dinner
MAY
- 1 May – U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association Board of Trustees Spring Meeting
- 4-8 May - Naval Academy Great Class Challenge
- 7–8 May – Service Academy Career Conference, Washington, DC
- 11–12 May – Class of 2029 Sea Trials
- 13 May – Class of 2029 Herndon Climb
- 15 May – Class of 2026 1/C Out-Processing, Alumni Hall
- 16 May – Class of 2027 Ring Dance, Dahlgren
- 17–22 May – U.S. Naval Academy Class of 2026 Commissioning Week
- 19 May – USMC Select Ceremony & Awards
- 19 May – Glee Club Concert, Main Chapel
- 20 May – Blue Angels Flight Show, Hospital Point
- 21 May – Class of 2026 Color Parade, Worden Field
- 21 May – Prizes & Awards Ceremony, Alumni Hall
- 21 May – President Circle Sip Sip Soiree, Fluegel
- 22 May – Class of 2026 Graduation & Commissioning, NMCMS
JUNE
- 17–18 Jun – USNA Entrepreneurs Summit 2026, Fluegel Alumni Center
- 24–25 Jun – Class of 2030 I-Day Processing, TBD
- 25 Jun – Class of 2030 I-Day Picnic, TBD
|
|
Do you know someone else who would like to receive the Daily Shipmate? Forward them this email and tell them to click the button below to sign up.
|
|
The Daily Shipmate is a news product intended to share news about the Naval Academy, the Naval Services and our members. We are apolitical as an organization and will strive to bring forward relevant news on a wide variety of issues. Just because we include an article does not mean we endorse its content, author, or news organization.
|
|
|
|
|
