Official daily newsletter of the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation
In February 1945 on Iwo Jima, four days after the initial landings, Harold G. Schrier led a 40-man patrol up Mount Suribachi with a small American flag provided by Chandler Johnson. After a brief firefight with Japanese defenders, the flag—reportedly obtained from the attack transport USS Missoula (APA‑211)—was raised over the crater. Later that day, a larger eight-foot ensign from the tank landing ship LST‑779 replaced it. As Marines struggled to hoist the second flag, John H. Bradley and fellow servicemen were captured on film by Associated Press photographer Joe Rosenthal, creating one of the most iconic photographs of the twentieth century.
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Today in Navy, Marine Corps
and USNA Memorial Hall History
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1903 - In an effort to establish a presence in the Caribbean, the United States leases Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, which becomes the site of a strategic naval base. This land acquisition becomes increasingly important with the signing of a treaty between the United States and Cuba on 22 May 1903 granting America the right to intervene in the island nation to maintain order or preserve its independence.
1979 - LT John MacSwain '74, USN died of injuries received on 26 December 1978 when a cable parted aboard USS Incheon (LPH 12) while attempting to raise a sunken launch at Portsmouth, Virginia. A native of Merrill, Wisconsin, MacSwain wrestled in high school and continued at the Academy as the wrestling team manager. He was survived by his wife, parents, four brothers and sister.
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Academy & Graduate happenings
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USNA Alumni Association concludes Tennessee roadshow with largest event to date
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The Alumni Association's engagement roadshow wrapped up a memorable weekend in Tennessee, marked by meaningful connections across generations of the Naval Academy family - 72 years, in fact. In Chattanooga, they had the honor of meeting chapter founder Ron Eytchison '58, a proud '90 parent and '16 grandfather. Their visit with the Knoxville–Oak Ridge Chapter and the NAPC of Eastern Tennessee brought alumni together for an evening of camaraderie and live music, thanks to Chuck French '81 on acoustic guitar. The weekend concluded in Franklin with the largest roadshow event to date (over 60 people), including a future member of the Class of 2030. Now in its third year, the four-year roadshow strategy aims to meet alumni and parents where they are - from sharing news from the Yard and updates on Alumni Association programming and Alumni Foundation efforts, to gathering thoughtful feedback on how we can better support chapters, parent clubs and alumni nationwide. Next month, members of the Association engagement and Foundation teams will continue the roadshow with stops in Wichita, Kansas City, Des Moines, Omaha and St. Louis. See the schedule down below for dates of these future roadshows.
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Government & Military News
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VA halts implementation of controversial disability rating rule following backlash
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The Department of Veterans Affairs has paused implementation of a controversial disability rating rule after significant backlash from lawmakers, veterans groups and advocates. The proposal would have changed how some medical conditions are evaluated, raising concerns it could reduce benefits for certain veterans. VA leaders said the halt will allow more time to review feedback and ensure any policy changes do not negatively affect those relying on disability compensation. The decision reflects the sensitivity of benefits policy and the strong influence of veteran advocacy organizations. For now, current rating criteria remain in place while the department reassesses the proposed updates and next steps.
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Navy eyes BAH increases, barracks updates to house more sailors ashore
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The U.S. Navy is considering increases to Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and major barracks upgrades as part of a broader effort to improve living conditions and move more sailors ashore. Officials say about 4,500 sailors have already been relocated from ships to shore housing, with additional capacity planned through renovations and new projects. The initiative aligns with quality-of-life priorities aimed at retention, readiness and overall sailor well-being. Expanded barracks space and potential pay adjustments could ease housing shortages at high-cost duty stations while reducing reliance on shipboard living for non-deployed personnel. Overall, the effort signals a sustained focus on improving day-to-day life for the fleet.
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Seif '92 relieves Gaucher '91 as Commander, Submarine Forces/Submarine Force Atlantic
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VADM Richard Seif '92, USN assumed command of Submarine Forces/Submarine Force Atlantic on 20 February 2026, relieving VADM Robert Gaucher '91, USN at Naval Station Norfolk. Seif underscored the mission ahead, calling the force “America's unseen shield, and unseen sword,” ready to deter and respond globally. Gaucher, who led the force since 2023, reflected on his tenure, saying, “It has been a pleasure to come to work every day and lead the greatest submarine force in the world.” He will now oversee production of Virginia- and Columbia-class submarines, ensuring continued strength in the Navy's undersea enterprise.
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Local, Education & other academy news
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Get to know USNA alum VADM Rick Seif '92
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A career submariner, VADM Richard E. “Rick” Seif '92, USN, now commands Naval Submarine Forces, Submarine Force Atlantic, and Allied Submarine Command. His sea tours include multiple command assignments, and he previously led AUKUS integration, playing a key role in shaping undersea strategy and ensuring submarine force readiness.
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Naval Academy Athletics News & Results
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Navy Men's and Women's Basketball claim stars and historic sweep over Army
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With service academy bragging rights, the 2026 Star and Patriot League positioning on the line, at Christl Arena. The women's basketball team overcame an early deficit to secure a 54-51 victory, earning the program's first Star since 2018 and at least a share of the Patriot League regular season title for the first time since 2014. The men's basketball team followed with a commanding 81-63 win, giving Navy both victories and clinching the 2025–26 Army-Navy Star Series, presented by USAA — a memorable accomplishment for the Mids and the entire Navy basketball program.
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Swimming and Diving sweeps Patriot League Championships
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The Men's and Women's swimming and diving teams put together a strong Saturday of competition to successfully close out the Patriot League Championship at Lejeune Hall. The Navy men's team totaled 1792 points to win the meet by 582 points over Army, while the women's team tallied 1427.5 points to close with a 134-point margin of victory over the second-place Black Knights.
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Women's Golf at El Campeon Collegiate - Howey-in-the-Hills, Fl. - TBD
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Sunday, 22 February:
Intercollegiate Sailing vs Quad Team Race - NTS
M. Tennis vs Bryant - 8AM - W - 4-2
M. Tennis vs Bryant - 10:30AM - W - 4-3
Baseball vs Marshall - W - 8-1
W. Tennis at Delaware - Postponed
M. Tennis vs Temple - Canceled
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Friday, 20 February:
Women's Track & Field vs Navy Select – NTS
Men's Track & Field vs Navy Select – NTS
Women's Swimming & Diving vs Patriot League Championship – 1st of 10
Men's Swimming & Diving vs Patriot League Championship – 1st of 10
Men's Tennis vs Drexel – L 3-4
Men's Tennis at William & Mary – L 0-7
Baseball vs Air Force – W 5-3
Women's Soccer vs Georgetown – NTS
Wrestling vs Army – L 18-19
Saturday, 21 February:
Intercollegiate Sailing vs Quad Team Race - Completed
Rifle vs John Jay - W - 4733-4298
W. Tennis vs Georgetown - W - 6-1
M. Swimming & Diving vs Patriot League Championship - 1st of 10
W. Swimming & Diving vs Patriot League Championship - 1st of 10
W. Basketball at Army - W - 54-51
W. Lacrosse at High Point - W - 14-6
M. Rugby vs Mount St. Mary's (Md.) - W - 52-8
M. Lacrosse vs Penn State - W - 12-11
M. Basketball at Army - W - 81-63
W. Tennis vs Towson - W - 4-3
Baseball at South Carolina - L - 0-8
M. Gymnastics at Winter Cup - Brian Solomon competed
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Navy leads 13-5-1 (Army - Volleyball, Men's Soccer, Women's Rugby, Women's Cross Country, Wrestling. Navy - Men's Golf, Men's Cross Country, Sprint Football, Men's Rugby, Men's and Women's Swimming, Football, Men's and Women's Indoor Track & Field, Rifle, Gymnastics, Men's and Women's Basketball. Tie - Women's Soccer) With Men's and Women's Basketball wins this weekend, Navy has clinched the Star Series.
Remaining Star Matchups:
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.
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FEBRUARY
- 27 Feb – Brigade Boxing Finals - Alumni Hall - 7 p.m.
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 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 – 6 p.m.
- 10 Mar – AA&F Engagement Roadshows – Wichita Chapter + NAPC of KS& MO
- 11 Mar – AA&F Engagement Roadshows – KC Metro Chapter + NAPC of KS& MO
- 11 Mar - GSMC Social & Business Mtg. Brudergarten - 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM EDT22725 Duke St, Leonardtown, MD 20650 - Online event - Join here
- 12 Mar – AA&F Engagement Roadshows – Des Moines (NAPC of Iowa )
- 12 Mar – USNA Glee Club Spring Performance – St. Ignatius Loyola, 980 Park Avenue, New York, NY – 8 p.m.
- 13 Mar – AA&F Engagement Roadshows – Omaha Chapter + NAPC of Nebraska
- 13 Mar – Alumni Association Travel Showcase
- 14 Mar – USNA Glee Club Spring Performance – St. Patrick's Church, 242 S 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA – 7 p.m.
- 14 Mar – AA&F Engagement Roadshows – St. Louis Chapter + NAPC of Greater St. Louis, Eastern MO and So IL
- 17 Mar – Beyond Commissioning Event, Mitscher Auditorium
- 18 Mar – Beyond Commissioning Event, Mitscher Auditorium
- 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
- 19-22 Apr - Sea Air and Space Expo - Washington, DC
- 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 Alumni Center
- 22 May – Class of 2026 Graduation & Commissioning, NMCMS
- 25 May - Run to Honor Reading of the names (Link) and multiple Memorial Day Run to Honor Events across the country (Link)
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
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USNA AA&F resources & Links
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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.
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