30 Jul Daily Shipmate

Wednesday, Jul 30, 2025

1942 - The Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (WAVES) is established, with Lieutenant Commander Mildred H. McAfee assuming duties as commanding officer on 2 August. By the end of 1942, total WAVE strength is 3,879 officers and enlisted personnel. By 31 July 1945, that number has grown to 86,291.

 

1945 - USS Indianapolis (CA 35) was sunk by a Japanese submarine in the Pacific Ocean, resulting in the deaths of 879 officers and men. Nine Naval Academy alumni were among those killed: CAPT Edwin Crouch '21, USN (aboard as a passenger), CAPT Joseph Flynn '27, USN (executive officer), CDR Stanley Lipski '35, USN (officer of the deck at the time), CDR Johns Janney '36, USN (navigator), LT Robert Hurst '40, USNR, LT Michael Pessolano '42, USN, LT James Spencer '43, USN, ENS Robert Billings '45, USN, ENS Harold Moynelo, Jr. '45, USN.

Sitting silently in our WTVR-TV (Richmond) archives for 24 years, there are two video tapes which are speaking volumes today. On the tapes are recordings of a man from Williamsburg, Virginia, who lived through one of the worst disasters in U.S. Military history. Richard Paroubek survived the sinking of the U.S.S. Indianapolis 80 years ago this month. “Strangely enough, I did not hear or feel the explosion,” Mr. Paroubek said. “But I found myself unconscious on the deck.” Most of his memories captured during an interview with this reporter in 2001 have never been heard. 

Academy & Graduate happenings

The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (IKE) hosted two Midshipmen from the Naval Academy for a tour, July 17. The tour gave rising Midshipmen 1st Classes Owen Erker and Preston White a chance to see IKE's facilities during its Planned Incremental Activity (PIA) and to give them a look at what goes into shipboard maintenance. “It's important to do tours for the next generation so they can see all sides of what the Navy has to offer,” said Cmdr. Sander Mathews, IKE's Senior Intelligence Officer. “From preparations that to the maintenance periods that keep those ships, aircraft, submarines and expeditionary units moving in the right direction.” This is a part of a new IKE initiative designed to give future officers a new perspective about shipboard life. The opportunity gave the Midshipmen a deeper understanding of a platform they might call home one day.

On behalf of the Navy Letterwinners Association, we hope you enjoy the latest edition of our monthly newsletter. In this issue, you will find feature articles about the Navy Lacrosse Old Goats, women's basketball captain Maren Louridas '26, and women's soccer coach Carin Gabarra. This past month, Michael Kelly came on board as the 29th athletic director in USNA history. He has been busy building meaningful relationships and he understands the value of our alumni to our mission. “It is an incredible honor and privilege to serve as the Director of Athletics at the United States Naval Academy. As someone who deeply respects the traditions and values that define Navy Athletics, I am humbled to join this extraordinary community of leaders and competitors," explained Michael Kelly. "Our letterwinners are the living legacy of this program, and I look forward to working closely with each of you to stay connected, engaged, and inspired as we continue to advance the mission and uphold the proud standard of Navy Athletics.”

Capital Gazette

The Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation has announced a strategic partnership with IMG Academy, a renowned preparatory school located in Bradenton, Florida.

 

This collaboration, formalized through a recently signed memorandum of understanding, designates IMG Academy as a “Foundation School” within the Alumni Association's Athletic & Scholarships Program.

 

As a foundation school, IMG Academy will work closely with the Athletics & Scholarships Program (A&SP) to prepare selected Naval Academy candidates through a comprehensive post-graduate year. Retired Admiral Bill Moran, chairman of the A&SP, described IMG Academy as an ideal fit for a Foundation School.

 

“This partnership with IMG Academy reinforces our mission to support exceptional young men and women in their pursuit of a Naval Academy education,” said Moran, a 1981 graduate. “IMG's proven excellence in academics and athletics aligns perfectly with the high standards and values of the Naval Academy.”

 

One of the primary missions of A&SP is to provide one year of post-high school education to qualified young men and women who need further academic preparation before entering the Naval Academy. To date, A&SP has sponsored more than 4,000 candidates who have graduated from the Naval Academy.

 

IMG Academy becomes the 16th foundation school to partner with A&SP, which has sent an annual average of 45 candidates to various prep schools over the past five years. Roughly 30% of those prospective midshipmen are recruited varsity athletes.

 

Retired Captain Don Hughes, vice president of A&SP, said the organization was seeking to add another Foundation School after dropping Greystone Preparatory and having Northwestern Preparatory close its doors.

 

“This partnership is important because it gives us a school in a different geographic region and increases our profile because we're landing one of the premier prep schools in the country,” Hughes said. “IMG Academy produces student-athletes that are comparable to ours. I think it will be a win-win for both institutions.”

 

Other foundation schools include the likes of Avon Old Farms (Connecticut), Blair Academy (New Jersey), Kent School (Maryland), Mercersburg Academy (Pennsylvania), Western Reserve Academy (Ohio), Hargrave Military Academy (Virginia) and New Mexico Military Institute.

 

'We are proud of the program's success in having its candidates receive appointments to the Naval Academy and subsequent high graduation rates,” Hughes said.

 

IMG Academy bills itself as the world's leading sports education brand, providing access and opportunity for student-athletes through innovative on-campus programming and experiences. It fields nationally ranked programs in baseball, basketball, football, lacrosse, soccer and softball, among other sports.

 

IMG Academy has a long list of famous alumni currently playing in the NBA, NFL and MLB such as Minnesota Vikings quarterback JJ McCarthy, Washington Nationals outfielder James Wood and Memphis Grizzlies center Zach Edey.

 

It began life as the Nick Bolletieri Tennis Academy and has produced such renowned pros as Serena and Venus Williams along with Maria Sharapova. Its prestigious golf training program has produced PGA Tour player Emiliano Grillo and LPGA star Nelly Korda.

 

Naval Academy athletic director Michael Kelly previously held the same position at the University of South Florida in Tampa and is well acquainted with IMG Academy. Kelly said he was “thrilled” by the partnership and believes it will prove beneficial for the academy's 36 varsity sports.

 

“Athletics is one of the most powerful classrooms for developing servant leaders, and at the Naval Academy that mission is rooted in the moral, mental and physical development of every midshipman,” Kelly said. “IMG Academy shares the same holistic focus, which makes this relationship a natural fit. Together, we are preparing young men and women to not just compete in the sports that they love, but to lead with character, resilience and a commitment to something greater than themselves.”

 

IMG Academy is renowned for its holistic approach to athletic and academic training. Moran said the institution mirrors the Naval Academy's commitment to the moral, mental and physical development of students.

 

Many former IMG Academy athletes wound up being recruited by Navy and graduating from the institution. Among the most recent are Zach Stevens (baseball, Class of 2022), Zayda Fredericks (women's lacrosse, 2023) and Evan Conway (men's lacrosse, 2025).

 

“Becoming a Foundation School is an honor for IMG Academy,” chief operating officer Mike Milliron said. “We are eager to help shape the next generation of Naval officers by providing an environment that nurtures their potential as leaders for the nation, both in uniform and beyond.”

 

Hughes said the process of establishing IMG Academy as a Foundation School took almost three years and was initiated by A&SP trustee Jeff Johnson, a former Navy varsity soccer and lacrosse player.

 

Johnson, a 1979 academy graduate who was an All-American in both sports, spent two years as the goalie coach for the men's and women's lacrosse teams at IMG Academy.

 

“Jeff was the main connection to IMG Academy and the driving force behind making this happen. He did a lot of networking and legwork,” Hughes said.

 

Hughes said IMG Academy was thoroughly vetted and approved by top Naval Academy administrators such as the superintendent, commandant of midshipmen and dean of admissions.

 

In 2024, the A&SPprovided more than $4 million in direct support to Navy's 36 varsity teams, as well as several club and intramural teams. Through the “Fund for Athletic Excellence,” A&SP also supported the Naval Academy Prep School in Newport, Rhode Island.

 

A&SP has been a cornerstone of support for the Naval Academy and its physical mission for more than 80 years, contributing significantly to the Brigade of Midshipmen, facilities, athletics and scholarship programs.

Government & Military News

One of the Navy's four guided-missile nuclear submarines has emerged in Australia, the service announced. USS Ohio (SSGN-726) arrived in Brisbane on Sunday as part of an ongoing deployment in the Western Pacific, U.S. 7th Fleet said. The submarine arrived in the eastern Australian port city and moored next to submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS-40), which had arrived the day before.

Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57), assigned to Destroyer Squadron Two (DESRON-2), departed Naval Station Norfolk for a regularly scheduled deployment to the U.S. European Command area of responsibility, July 25, 2025. Equipped with the Aegis combat system, Mitscher provides multi-mission offensive and defensive capabilities to conduct anti-air, anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare. USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), the strike group's flagship, as well as multiple destroyers from DESRON-2 and USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81), departed Naval Station Norfolk for deployment to the U.S. European Command area of operations on June 24, 2025. In addition to Mitscher, DESRON-2 includes USS Mahan (DDG 72), USS Bainbridge (DDG 96) and USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98).

Local, Education & other academy news

The Trident Scholar Program provides an opportunity for a select group of exceptionally capable midshipmen to engage in independent study and research during their senior year.  Naval Academy faculty and other area specialists mentor the Trident Scholars helping them expand their knowledge and contribute to their fields of study. The answer, by the way, is 14. See the list and learn more about the history of the Trident Scholar program here.

Navy senior quarterback Blake Horvath has been named to the 89th Maxwell Award Watch List, announced today by the Maxwell Football Club.  The Maxwell Award is presented annually to the most outstanding player in college football. The Maxwell Award has been presented to the College Player of the Year every year since 1937 and is named in honor of Robert "Tiny" Maxwell who was a former standout at Swarthmore College and a renowned sportswriter and football official. The Maxwell Award watch list will once again incorporate a broad spectrum of Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) programs and conferences from coast to coast, led by 2 returning semifinalists, Cade Klubnik of Clemson and Diego Pavia of Vanderbilt.

Cast off aboard a deluxe, three-masted yacht for an extraordinary eight-night Caribbean sailing adventure. Join us for an intimate, wind-powered journey through some of the most stunning and diverse islands the Caribbean has to offer. Sail from St. Maarten to Curaçao, and explore six unforgettable destinations: the chic, sun-soaked shores of St. Barthelemy; Dominica's lush jungles and hidden waterfalls; the authentic charm and clear waters of Bequia; St. Lucia's iconic volcanic spires and drive-in volcano; the spice-scented markets and golden beaches of Grenada; and Bonaire's vibrant reefs and underwater wonders. Wander through colorful towns, swim off secluded beaches, soak in natural hot springs—and don't forget to take in every breathtaking view this opportunity offers.

USNA and AA&F Events

1 Aug - Plebe Summer Formal Parade

1-3 Aug - Seattle Sea Fair

4-10 Aug - Sioux Falls, South Dakota Navy Week

6 Aug - Hampton Roads Chapter Midshipmen Summer Cruise Meet and Greet - Norfolk - 5-7 p.m. - Rocky Mountain Room, Blue Moon TapHouse - Waterside District - More Info

7 Aug - Class of 2029 Plebe Parent Mixer, Fluegel

8-10 Aug - Plebe Parents Weekend

9 Aug - Plebe Parents Weekend Formal Parade

9 Aug - Blue & Gold kick-off BBQ - N/MCMS

15 Aug - 2 for 7 Signing - Class of 2027

18 Aug - USNA Classes begin

18-24 Aug - Columbus, Ohio Navy Week

19 Aug - Class of 2027 Commitment Lunch

21-22 Aug - SACC San Diego

22 Aug - Friends of Navy Sailing Starting Gun Reception: Severn Sailing Association - 6 p.m.

23 Aug - Friends of Navy Sailing Supe brief, race and Sail Navy Banquet

24 Aug - Annapolis 10 Miler - Run to Honor is a charity partner

25-31 Aug - Springfield, Missouri Navy Week

28 Aug - Navy Football Brotherhood Weekend Kickoff Dinner w/ Football Coaching Staff

28-31 Aug - Class of 2010 15th Reunion

28-31 Aug - Class of 1960 65th Reunion

29 Aug - Navy Football Brotherhood Fallen Brothers Golf Classic & Evening Social

30 Aug - Navy Football Brotherhood Weekend Tailgater, NMCMS

30 Aug - A&SP/NAAA Trustee Appreciation Pre-Game Breakfast – Navy vs. VMI

30 Aug - Navy vs VMI, NMCMS, Annapolis, MD - 12 p.m.

 

SEPTEMBER

4 Sep - Distinguished Graduate Award (DGA) Medal Ceremony - Alumni Hall, 4:30 p.m.

4-6 Sep - Class of 2000 25th Reunion

6 Sep - Navy Football vs University of Alabama Birmingham, NMCMS, Annapolis, MD

13 Sep - Navy Football vs Tulsa, Tulsa, OK

14 Sep - Annapolis Travis Manion 9/11 Heroes Run

15-21 Sep - Wichita Falls, Texas Navy Week

18-19 Sep - McMullen Naval History Symposium - USNA

18-21 Sep - Class of 1985 - 40th Reunion

19 Sep - USNI Dudley Knox Achievement Award Reception

22-28 Sep - Hartford, CT Navy Week

25-27 Sep - Class of 2020 5th Reunion

26 Sep - Council of Annual Giving meeting - Fluegel Alumni Center

27 Sep - Navy Football vs Rice, NMCMS, Annapolis, MD

 

OCTOBER

1-22 Oct - Class of '75 Gulf to Goat Charity Bike Ride

2 Oct - President Circle Welcome Reception, Fluegel

2-4 Oct - President Circle Weekend

2-5 Oct - Class of 2015 10th Reunion

2-5 Oct - Class of 1995 30th Reunion

2-5 Oct - Class of 1990 35th Reunion

4 Oct - Navy Football vs Air Force, NMCMS, Annapolis, MD

9-16 Oct - Celebrating The Navy and Marine Corps' 250th Anniversary - Philadelphia

10 Oct - USNA Founder's Day - 180th Birthday of the Naval Academy

10 Oct - Army-Navy Cup XIV - Soccer doubleheader vs Army at Subaru Park, Philadelphia. Women's Match - 4 p.m., Men's Match at 7 p.m.

11 Oct - Navy Football @ Temple, Lincoln Financial Stadium, Philadelphia, PA

13 Oct - U.S. Navy Birthday

13 Oct - Surface Navy Museum Grand Opening - Battleship Iowa - Los Angeles

23-26 Oct - Class of 2005 20th Reunion

23-26 Oct - Class of 1975 50th Reunion

23-26 Oct - Class of 1965 60th Reunion

24 Oct - Anchors Aweigh Open - Alumni Golf Tournament - Naval Academy Golf Course

25 Oct - Navy Football vs Florida Atlantic, NMCMS, Annapolis, MD

25 Oct - United States Naval Academy Homecoming

25 Oct - Welcome Home Event, Fluegel Alumni Center

25-31 Oct - Eugene, Oregon Navy Week

26 Oct - USMC Marathon w/ Run to Honor SIG participating and presenting the Penguin Award to final finisher

 

NOVEMBER

1 Nov - Navy @ North Texas, DATCU Stadium, Denton TX

5-6 Nov - US Naval Academy Foundation Fall Board of Directors Reception/Meeting

6-9 Nov - Class of 1980 45th Reunion

8 Nov - Navy @ Notre Dame, Notre Dame Stadium, South Bend, IN - 7:30 p.m.

10 Nov - Marine Corps Birthday

10-16  Nov - Santa Fe, New Mexico Navy Week.

14 Nov - Run to Honor's annual pre-Honor Our Fallen Heroes Gathering (FAC) - 6:30pm - Register

14 Nov - US Naval Academy Athletic & Scholarship Program Fall Meeting, NMCMS

15 Nov - Navy vs University of South Florida, NMCMS

15 Nov - Honor Our Fallen Heroes - Location TBD

17 Nov - Council of Class Presidents Fall meeting, Fluegel

18-19 Nov - US Naval Academy Alumni Association Board of Trustee Fall Meeting, Fluegel

19-20 Nov - SACC Chicago

27 Nov - Navy Football @ University of Memphis, Liberty Bowl, Memphis, TN

 

DECEMBER

5/6 Dec - American Athletic Conference Football Championship Game, TBD

6 Dec - Distinguished Graduate Selection Committee Meeting, Fluegel, TBD

13 Dec - Army - Navy, M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, MD