10 Feb Daily Shipmate

Tuesday, 10 February 2026

This week's editions of Naval Academy Alumni Association & Foundation Morning Paper are brought to you by Otterson Wealth Advisors and Naval Academy graduate Caleb Cronic '11. Otterson Wealth Advisors of Raymond James is not just a team. It's a vast resource of financial knowledge, with each member bringing their unique expertise to your financial success. Caleb Cronic '11, financial advisor and Naval Academy graduate, is a CIMA-certified pro. His strategic prowess is your asset working towards your financial goals. Ready to begin to your journey? Otterson Wealth Advisors … your goals, our expertise.

1862 - Secretary of the Navy Gideon Welles directs Commander David Dixon Porter to assign 22 sailing vessels and seven steamers to outfit the Mortar Squadron for use in suppressing fire from Forts Jackson and St. Philip at the entrance to New Orleans.

 

1977 - LTJG Guy Brown '72, USN was lost when the CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter he was piloting crashed during an at-sea replenishment in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Spain. Another crewman aboard was also killed. They were members of Helicopter Combat Support Squadron (HC) 6, stationed aboard USS San Diego (AFS 6), and were replenishing USS Suribachi (AE 21). Brown was a native of Corpus Christi, Texas, and served for two years aboard a replenishment ship before starting flight training. He was survived by his wife, parents, a brother and a sister.

Academy & Graduate happenings

A cherished member of the United States Naval Academy and alumni family, Beach's connection to USNA spans generations. As the widow of CAPT Edward L. “Ned” Beach Jr. '39, USN (Ret.)—legendary submariner, historian and author—she has carried forward his legacy with grace, warmth and unmistakable joy. While Beach Hall stands as a lasting tribute to Ned's remarkable impact on the Academy, Ingrid's presence and enduring bond with the USNA community are just as meaningful.

 

For decades, Ingrid has embodied the very best of the Naval Academy family—welcoming, spirited and deeply connected to its people and traditions. We honor not only a century of life well lived, but a woman whose energy and kindness continue to inspire all who know her.

Shipmate spotlights LCDR Susan Keller Keaney '80, USNR (Ret.) (pictured above left), and Sharon Disher '80 (pictured above right) as part of our continued coverage of 50 Years of Women at USNA. Disher and Keaney reflect on charting new waters during their time at the Naval Academy and in the U.S. Navy. Their determination, courage and resilience helped pave the way for future generations of midshipmen.

 

Read their stories — and those of their classmates — in the latest issue of Shipmate magazine. Shipmate subscribers receive 24/7 access to the digital edition, anytime and anywhere. Subscribers who opt out of the print edition are among the first to be notified and can receive the digital magazine up to two weeks early, delivered directly to their inbox.

Leadership Under Fire: NAS Pensacola CO Shares Crisis Response, Mental Health & Forgotten Naval Heroes featuring Kinsella '96

As Commanding Officer (CO) of NAS Pensacola, CAPT Tim “Lucky” Kinsella '96, USN (Ret.) faced an active shooter attack, Hurricane Sally and a COVID-19 shutdown that halted Navy training. He shares the first call that morning, the pressure of leading under global scrutiny and how unity and calm carried his team through consecutive crises. The conversation also explores mental health and his “Bucket of Joy” philosophy, highlighting resilience, self-care and the unseen costs of command.

Government & Military News

The Navy's 34th Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Daryl Caudle, today released the United States Navy Fighting Instructions, a comprehensive framework to guide how the Navy organizes, trains, equips, and fights in an increasingly contested global security environment. Caudle unveiled the document during remarks at the U.S. Naval War College, calling the institution the Navy's “home of thought” and emphasizing the importance of introducing the guidance to future operational and strategic leaders. The Fighting Instructions introduce the Navy's “Hedge Strategy” to build repeatable and tailorable processes that produce a Navy that is agile, lethal, and responsive to changes in the global security environment.

These are the approximate positions of the U.S. Navy's deployed carrier strike groups and amphibious ready groups throughout the world as of 9 February 2026, based on Navy and public data. In cases in which a CSG or ARG is conducting disaggregated operations, the chart reflects the location of the capital ship.

USS Arleigh Burke sailors awarded Armed Forces Service Medal for '12-Day War' operations

Sailors from the guided-missile destroyer USS Arleigh Burke have been awarded the Armed Forces Service Medal for their roles in ballistic missile defense operations in 2024 and during last June's “12-Day War” between Iran and Israel. The medal recognizes service in significant military operations without direct hostile encounters. Eligible sailors served aboard the destroyer from 15 August - 16 December 2024 or during the conflict from 12-24 June 2025, with those qualifying for both eligible for a subsequent award. During the period, the Arleigh Burke helped defend against Iranian-launched missiles and contributed to regional defense efforts.

Local, Education & other academy news

In January, U.S. Army officer cadets and U.S. Navy midshipmen, along with faculty and staff from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, came together to compete in what is now known as Civil Air Patrol's Operation Pulse Lift “Blood Bowl.”

Annapolis Restaurant Week is back for its 18th year from 21 February through 1 March 2026, giving diners a chance to sample prix-fixe menus, specials, and discounts at restaurants in downtown Annapolis and surrounding communities. The event is presented by the Downtown Annapolis Partnership and typically draws large crowds, so reservations are strongly encouraged. About 35 restaurants are expected to take part, ranging from long-time Annapolis favorites to newer spots. New participants this year include Rumhouse, True Food Kitchen, Julep Kitchen & Bar, and Firebirds Wood Fired Grill.

Naval Academy Athletics News & Results

Navy men's and women's intercollegiate boxing teams win 15 of 20 bouts at Dahlgren Hall

The Navy men's and women's intercollegiate boxing teams hosted seven colleges for 23 bouts Saturday in Dahlgren Hall. Navy faced Army, Penn State, West Virginia, Lock Haven, Crandall, the University of Connecticut and Trinity in each bout. Navy competed in 20 bouts, winning 15, led by team captains Cami Johnson and Nick Smith. Among 35 collegiate programs nationwide, the Navy men are defending back-to-back national champions, while the women's team finished third nationally last season.

 

The annual internal Brigade Boxing Tournament will feature quarterfinal bouts on the Yard on Friday, 20 February, followed by semifinal bouts Saturday, 21 February. The finals will take place Friday night, 27 February. See schedule below for times and locations.

Men's Basketball at Bucknell - W 76 - 60

USNA and AA&F Events

USNA AA&F resources & Links

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