Thursday, 17 September 2026

merchandise spotlight

The Jacket Club was founded in 2017 by four U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) classmates and friends who bonded over their time at USNA, a love of sport coats and the lifelong friendships they built in Annapolis. After serving around the world in the Navy and Marine Corps, the group reunited and found inspiration in memories of the Academy, including the beloved "Blue Magnet" in Bancroft Hall. To commemorate their shared experience, they created The Goat Jacket, a handcrafted sport coat that incorporates a piece of the Naval Academy. More than just apparel, the jacket celebrates the traditions and friendships formed at USNA and encourages fellow alumni and midshipmen to find their own club that lasts a lifetime.

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today in u.s. navy and marine corps history

1917 - While escorting a convoy to France, the cruiser Huntington (ACR-5) releases an observation balloon that is forced down by a squall. The pilot becomes entangled in the rigging and is dragged underwater. Ship’s Fitter First Class Patrick McGunigal climbs down the side of the ship, jumps to the ropes leading to the basket and frees the pilot, allowing him to be pulled to safety. For his heroic actions, McGunigal is awarded the Medal of Honor.

1944 - Task Group 32.1, under RADM William H. P. Blandy ’13, USN, lands troops on the island of Angaur in the Palaus, where an airfield is established to support offensive operations in the Philippines.

Content in “Today in Navy, Marine Corps and USNA Memorial Hall History” is generously provided by our partners and fellow alumni at the Naval History and Heritage Command and the Run to Honor SIG, which supplies the USNA Memorial Hall content. We are grateful for their partnership in preserving and sharing this history, and the Daily Shipmate is proud to serve as a distribution platform. You can learn more or provide feedback through their respective websites hyperlinked above.

In Memoriam from usna memorial hall

1943 - CDR Willis Thomas ’31, USN

Thomas was killed in action when USS Pompano (SS-181), which he commanded, was lost on her sixth war patrol. Seventy-six other officers and sailors also perished, including Executive Officer LCDR Thomas McGrath ’40, USN, and LT Claire Poole ’41, USN. Willis, of Fresno, Calif., was a decorated submariner who earned the Navy Cross, Silver Star and Bronze Star, and was survived by his wife and child. McGrath, of Tucson, Ariz., was a former Naval Academy regimental commander distinguished himself aboard USS California (BB 44) during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Poole, of Bennett, Colo., was survived by his wife, parents and three brothers.

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Other alumni lost on this day are listed at Virtual Memorial Hall.

Academy & Graduate happenings

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New: From the Seawall featuring Commandant of Midshipmen Cornell ’01

In this episode of From the Seawall, we travel to Triton's Light and talk with CAPT Clint Cornell ’01, USN, the U.S. Naval Academy's Commandant of Midshipmen, for an exclusive and in-depth conversation about leadership, service and the future of the Brigade. From his days as a midshipman in Bancroft Hall to his current role shaping the next generation of Navy and Marine Corps officers, Cornell shares the experiences, lessons and challenges that have defined his journey. He also offers unique insight into the responsibility of developing the young leaders who will lead our Navy and Marine Corps into the future. Whether you're an alumnus, parent or friend of the Academy, this is a rare opportunity to hear directly from one of USNA's most influential leaders about the mission, priorities and future of the Brigade.

Watch the exclusive interview now

Training Air Wing Five holds change of command

CAPT Kenneth Kerr ’98, USN, was recognized for his leadership during a 5 September change of command ceremony for Training Air Wing Five at Naval Air Station Whiting Field, Florida. During his tenure as commodore, Kerr led the Navy’s largest primary flight training pipeline, overseeing more than 203,000 flight hours and 105,100 sorties while helping deliver more than 1,100 student aviators to advanced training and awarding more than 750 Wings of Gold. VADM Max McCoy ’91, USN, Chief of Naval Air Training, presented Kerr with the Legion of Merit, citing his dedication to pilot production, mission safety and the successful transition to the TH-73A training helicopter. Kerr was relieved by Col Andrew Kellner, USMC, the wing's former deputy commodore.

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Welcome back, Class of 1986!

This week, we are proud to welcome the great Class of 1986 back to Annapolis for its 40th Reunion. Four decades after graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy, classmates are returning to reconnect with friends, revisit familiar places and celebrate the bonds that have endured through the years. Throughout the weekend, members of the class will have the opportunity to share memories, renew friendships and reflect on the experiences that continue to unite them. Welcome home, Class of 1986!

From the Podcast Fleet

A new voice in the Podcast Fleet: Lifelines debuts with episode One — Understanding VA Claims

Hosted by Tony Spinler ’91, Director of Alumni Support Services, our new podcast, Lifelines, is the podcast designed to help the Naval Academy family navigate life's challenges and opportunities. From VA benefits and career transitions to health care, financial resources and family support, each episode connects listeners with trusted experts, experienced advocates and fellow alumni who know the system firsthand. Packed with practical advice, insider tips and real-world guidance, Lifelines helps alumni, spouses and families discover resources they may not even know exist—and learn how to make the most of them. Navigating the VA claims process can be overwhelming, but help is available. In the debut episode Tony invites Jack Kirwan ’73, a retired Navy aviator and longtime veterans advocate, to discuss how veterans can successfully access the benefits they've earned. Drawing on decades of experience, Kirwan shares practical advice on filing claims, avoiding common pitfalls and finding qualified assistance. He also offers an important warning about fraudulent "claim shark" services and explains why working with an accredited representative can make all the difference. Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Amazon Music.

listen to this new podcast here

Government & Military News

Navy announces landmark housing agreement to benefit thousands of sailors in Hampton Roads

The Navy, Pentagon and Hunt Military Communities have entered into a $1.7 billion partnership to expand and modernize housing for junior sailors in the Hampton Roads region of Virginia. The initiative will create 8,098 beds through a combination of new construction and renovations across multiple installations, including Naval Station Norfolk, Naval Air Station Oceana and Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story. A key component is the $450 million HomePort Hampton Roads 2 project in Newport News, which will feature two 17-story residential towers, parking facilities and commercial space. Navy officials said the effort is part of a broader push to improve sailors’ quality of life, particularly following concerns about living conditions raised during the extended overhaul of USS George Washington (CVN-73). The project also includes replacing Huntington Hall and adding amenities intended to better support sailors living ashore.

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U.S. military must adapt as formations will be ‘hunted’ by autonomous systems, Caine says.

Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, warned that the U.S. military must rapidly adapt to a future battlefield where autonomous systems and artificial intelligence can quickly detect and target military forces. Speaking at the Air & Space Forces Association’s Air, Space & Cyber Conference, Caine said large formations that once benefited from mass and distance will increasingly be vulnerable to inexpensive drones and other autonomous technologies. He pointed to lessons from recent conflicts that have demonstrated how rapidly emerging technologies are changing warfare and forcing militaries to rethink traditional tactics. Caine emphasized the need for faster adoption of autonomous capabilities, AI-powered systems and new operational concepts to maintain a competitive edge against potential adversaries. His remarks reflect a broader Pentagon effort to modernize the force and prepare for future conflicts shaped by autonomous and unmanned systems.

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Local, Education & other academy news

Alumni travel spotlight: Hidden gems of the Croatian Riviera

Discover the stunning Adriatic coast on a luxury voyage through Croatia's most captivating seaside destinations, 29 May-5 June 2027. From the ancient walls of Dubrovnik and the waterfront wonders of Zadar to charming coastal towns and the timeless beauty of Venice, this journey blends history, culture and breathtaking scenery at every turn. Ready to set sail?

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Your shot at Pebble Beach is right around the corner

Get ready to tee up the opportunity of a lifetime. One of our most anticipated auction items, an exclusive three-day Pebble Beach golf getaway courtesy of Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, is coming soon to the Anchors Aweigh Open auction. The best part? You do not have to be registered for the tournament to bid or win. Whether you're a golfer, a traveler or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, this sought-after package could be yours. Stay tuned for bidding details and auction information. Pebble Beach is calling, and this is one opportunity you won't want to let slip through the rough.

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ICYMI: 2026 Male Survivor Webinar #2 - Survivor Advocacy Network

The Survivor Advocacy Network hopes you'll join us for our second Male Survivor Webinar on Tuesday, 22 September at 7:00 p.m. ET. Join presenters Anthony Riello, MSW, LICSW, and Colleen Moriarty-Anctil, LADC, LICSW

This webinar is open to all men who have attended a service academy or who have participated in any other commissioning program regardless of completion/graduation/commissioning status and who have experienced unwanted or negative sexual experience(s).

In this session, we will explore the different ways that MST can happen to or affect men, sociocultural components (gender role expectations) affecting male survivors, and several healing modalities that men can access. This webinar will be presented by Tony Riello, MSW, LCSW, and Colleen Morierity-Anctil, LADC, LICSW, who are professional counselors at the Worcester, MA Vet Center.

register here

Naval Academy Athletics News and results

Today's matchups:

None

Yesterday’s results:

None

Army-Navy Star Series matchups:

25 Sep - Sprint Football - Annapolis - 6 p.m.
26 Sep - M. Rugby - Annapolis - 11 a.m.
3-4 Oct - M. Golf - West Point - 9 a.m. / 9 a.m.
9 Oct - W. Soccer - Chester, Pa. - 4 p.m.
9 Oct - Volleyball - West Point - 7 p.m.
9 Oct - M. Soccer - Chester, Pa. - 7 p.m.
17 Oct - W. Cross Country - Annapolis - TBA
17 Oct - M. Cross Country - Annapolis - TBA
17 Oct - Volleyball - Annapolis - 4 p.m.
31 Oct - W. Rugby - Annapolis - 11 a.m.
12 Dec - Football - East Rutherford, N.J. - 3 p.m.
6 Feb - Gymnastics - West Point - TBA
6 Feb - Rifle - Annapolis - 9 a.m.
10 Apr - W. Tennis - West Point - TBA
17 Apr- M. Tennis - West Point - 1 p.m.
17 Apr - M. Lacrosse - Annapolis - TBA
17 Apr - W. Lacrosse - West Point - TBA

More Star Series games will be announced here.

USNA and AA&F Events

SEPTEMBER

17 – 20 Sep - Class of 1986 40th Reunion
18-19 Sep - Friends of Navy Sailing (FONS) Weekend 2026, USNA - Invite
19 Sep - Fall Southern Maryland USNA Bourbon Night - Tobacco Barn Distillery $10 Drinks - 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. ET (24460 Hollywood Rd, Hollywood, MD 20636)
22 Sep - UK–US Quantum Security Forum - U.S. Naval Academy - All Day.
22 Sep - The Survivor Advocacy Network Male Survivor Webinar - 7:00 p.m. ET - (Registration)
25 Sep - Tailgate registration - NAVY vs. UAB | myUSNA.com
25 Sep - Navy @ University of Alabama Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
30 Sep - USNA Entrepreneurs Fall Speaker Series - Army Navy Country Club - 5 - 8 p.m.

OCTOBER

1 – 4 Oct - Class of 1966 60th Reunion
1 - Oct - Beat Air Force Pep Rally, TBD
2 —3 Oct - USNA '85 NAPS Reunion - Newport, Rhode Island
3 Oct - Navy @ Air Force, Colorado Springs, CO
3 Oct - Navy-Air Force Tailgate - 7 a.m. and Football game 10 a.m. kickoff - registration and tickets - (Link) - For more information about the pre-game events the CO chapter is organizing, go to Events | Colorado Chapter
8 - 11 Oct - Class of 1971 55th Reunion
8 – 10 Oct - President's Circle Weekend
8 – 11 Oct - Annapolis Power Boat Show
9 Oct - Fall Formal Parade, Worden Field
10 Oct - Navy vs. Tulsa Alumni Pregame - 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. ET - Fluegel Alumni Center - Registration info coming soon!
10 Oct - Navy vs Tulsa University, NMCMS
14 Oct - GSMC Social & Business Mtg. Brudergarten - 5 - 6 p.m. Brudergarten - Link
15 Oct - Corpus Christi Recent Grad Social
16 Oct - Alamo Chapter + NAPC of South Texas Roadshow
17 Oct - Navy @ University of Texas San Antonio, San Antonio TX
17 Oct - Navy vs. UTSA US Naval Academy Alumni - Tailgate Tickets
22 – 23 Oct - Service Academy Career Conference, Denton, TX
23 – 25 Oct - Class of 1956 70th Reunion
23 – 25 Oct - Class of 1976 50th Reunion
23 – 25 Oct - Class of 1991 35th Reunion
23 – 25 Oct - Class of 2001 25th Reunion
23 – 25 Oct - Class of 2006 20th Reunion
23 Oct - Anchors Away Golf Tournament
23 Oct - Naval Academy Athletic Foundation Policy Review Mtg - TBD
24 Oct - U.S. Naval Academy Homecoming
24 Oct - Navy Letterwinners Breakfast (RSVP required before 14 October 2026) - open to all Navy Letterwinners and Former Athletes - 1984 Team Meeting Room at the Ron Terwilliger '63 Center - 9 a.m. - 10:00 a.m - RSVP here.
24 Oct - Navy vs. North Texas - Alumni Pregame Sponsored by Atlas Group - 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. ET - Fluegel Alumni Center - Registration info coming soon!
24 Oct - Navy vs North Texas University, NMCMS
31 Oct - Navy vs Notre Dame, Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA

NOVEMBER

4 Nov - Council of Class Presidents Meeting
5 Nov - U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association Fall Board of Trustees Cmte. Mtgs
5—7 Nov - NAPS 50 Year Reunion for first class with women -Newport RI
6 Nov - Naval Academy Athletic Foundation Executive Committee Mtg - TBD
6 Nov - U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association Fall Board of Trustees Meeting
6 – 8 Nov - Class of 2021 5th Reunion
6 – 8 Nov - Class of 2016 10th Reunion
6 – 8 Nov - Class of 2011 15th Reunion
7 Nov - Honor Our Fallen Heroes Events
7 Nov - Navy vs Temple University, NMCMS
11 Nov - GSMC Social & Business Mtg. Brudergarten - 5:00 PM - 6:00 p.m. ET Brudergarten - Online event: link
19 Nov - U.S. Naval Academy Foundation Fall Board of Directors Meeting
20 Nov - Naval Academy Athletic Foundation Fall Trustee Meeting
20 - 21 Nov - USNA Glee Club w/ St Louis Symphony Orchestra, Powell Hall, St. Louis - 7:30 p.m.
21 Nov - Navy vs Memphis University, NMCMS
28 Nov - Navy @ University of North Carolina Charlotte, Charlotte, NC
28 Nov - Navy Football vs Charlotte 49ers Tailgate | myUSNA.com

DECEMBER

5 Dec - American Conference Championship Game
12 Dec - Army Navy, Met Life Stadium, Rutherford, NJ

USNA AA&F resources & Links

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Media Links and Videos for Thursday

17 August Daily Shipmate