1 October Daily Shipmate

Wednesday, Oct 1, 2025

1950 - ENS Robert Wainwright '48, USN was killed in action when the minesweeper USS Magpie (AMS 25) struck a mine and sank off the coast of Korea. Robert had served three years as a radioman during WWII; two of which were in Trinidad. He was a native of North Andover, Massachusetts. Robert was survived by his wife, parents and sister.

 

1955 - The aircraft carrier Forrestal (CVA-59) is commissioned, the largest carrier built for the U.S. Navy at that time.

 

2024 - USS Cole (DDG-67) and USS Bulkeley (DDG-84) shoot down multiple Iranian ballistic missiles launched toward Israel.

Academy & Graduate happenings

Shipmate Magazine sneak peek - The magazine hits mailboxes this weekend! 

Rising to the Challenge – The Legacy of Valor: Vietnam series continues with a look at alumni aviators who braved the treacherous skies over North Vietnam.

Government & Military News

The U.S. government shut down on 1 October 2025, after Congress and the President were unable to pass a funding deal. The impasse led to federal agencies suspending nonessential services, while “essential” operations (like Social Security and defense) continue. It's unclear how long the shutdown will last, with the parties nowhere near an agreement.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has announced that the US military will require combatants to meet the "highest male standard" in physical fitness tests, acknowledging that the move may exclude some women from serving. "Standards must be uniform, gender neutral, and high," Hegseth told military top brass in an unusual address at a base near Washington DC. Before a crowd of hundreds of military leaders, the defence secretary outlined his visions for cultural shift at the Pentagon and a greater "warrior ethos". He was echoed by US President Donald Trump, who spoke afterwards. Generals and admirals stationed around the world listened silently to the two men's remarks.

Join us for Know Your GI Bill: Licensing, Certifications and Tests, a free, live webinar designed to help you maximize your GI Bill entitlement. Learn how to use your benefits to supplement your education or training journey with covered licenses, certifications, prep courses and national exams. Date: Wednesday, 1 October 2025; Time: 1–2 p.m. EST. The agenda will include:

 

- Qualifying benefit programs

- Number of tests or prep courses that can be covered

- Types of covered tests and prep courses

- How benefit entitlement is charged

- How to apply for reimbursement

- You'll also have the chance to ask questions during the live Q&A session.  

San Diego's rich military history has a new landmark with the opening of the city's very own Navy SEAL Museum, just blocks away from iconic sites like the World War II Kissing Statue and the USS Midway. Executive Director Brian Drechsler gave me a sneak peek before the grand opening this weekend. "With 80 years of rich history - we put a lot in here," Drechsler said. The museum features numerous interactive exhibits where visitors can engage with SEAL history firsthand. One highlight allows guests to experience piloting a SEAL Delivery Vehicle while the actual equipment hangs above them.

Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Santa Fe (SSN 763) returned to its homeport of Naval Base Point Loma following a six-month deployment to the U.S. Indo-Pacific command area of responsibility, Sept. 29, 2025. “The 'Iron Saint' deployed with the best young Americans our nation has to offer,” said Cmdr. Eric Knepper '05, Santa Fe's commanding officer. “During our deployment, Santa Fe Sailors invested in the mission, our team, and the future of the submarine force, bringing an asymmetric advantage to the maritime domain as America's apex predators.” Throughout the regularly scheduled deployment, Santa Fe demonstrated professionalism, resiliency, and the U.S.' commitment to our Allies and partners.

Local, Education & other academy news

CDR Eric Knepper - Commanding Officer, USS Santa Fe. Commander Knepper, a native of Bangor, Pennsylvania, started his career by enlisting as an Electronics Technician (Nuclear). Following his training, Knepper attended the Naval Academy Preparatory School in 2000. He later graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2005 with a Bachelor of Science in General Engineering while being a member of the rugby team. He went on to earn a Master's in Engineering Management from Old Dominion University.

What's better than a history-making Army-Navy soccer game? A tailgate to kickoff the historic event.

 

We have your ticket and it gets you into both games and our tailgate. It unlocks our exclusive tailgate near Subaru Park with food, drinks, swag and spirited fanfare to get you fired up as your Midshipmen take on the Knights. Last year, more than 10,000 fans brought the energy—but this year's doubleheader will be even bigger and louder.

 

Don't miss out! This ticket + tailgate package opportunity ends on Friday, 3 October 2025 at 3 p.m. ET.

📅 Wednesday, October 15, 2025 | 8:00 a.m.

 

The U.S. Naval Institute, in partnership with the U.S. Naval Academy, will host its annual day-long conference exploring how disruptive technologies are reshaping the character of war. From AI and robotics to autonomous systems and next-generation weapons, leading defense experts and innovators will examine how the U.S. military can maintain its edge in an era of rapid change.

 

Dr. Andrew F. Krepinevich Jr. – Author of The Origins of Victory; Senior Fellow, Hudson Institute and CNAS; President, Solarium LLC

Dr. Marc Raibert – Founder & Executive Director, Robotics and AI Institute; Founder & former CEO, Boston Dynamics

 

 

This full-day program features thought-provoking discussions, top-tier speakers, and opportunities to connect with peers over coffee breaks, lunch, and a closing reception.

We've got new merch, and it's more than just gear — it's a way to celebrate and support alumni-owned businesses.

 

🖼️ Art by Kristin Cronic — unique pieces that capture Navy spirit
🥃 Craft Whiskeys — alumni-made and perfect for raising a toast
🎉 Class & Reunion Gear — from VSA
🎩 Sport Coats, Blazers & Golf Gear — sharp looks for any occasion

 

The Naval Academy Alumni Association & Foundation is proud to champion alumni entrepreneurs. Their products, art, and exclusive Navy merchandise are now available on our shop site.

📅 Friday, October 18, 2025
🕓 4:30–6:30 p.m.
📍 Tobacco Barn Distillery | 24460 Hollywood Rd, Hollywood, MD

 

Join fellow USNA alumni, active duty, reservists, and veterans for an evening of camaraderie, Navy spirit, and great bourbon during the Navy Football bye week.

 

- $10 bourbon drinks

- Networking with alumni and service members in the local area

- A relaxed atmosphere at Tobacco Barn Distillery

 

Come raise a glass and connect with the Southern Maryland Navy community.

Naval Academy Athletics News & Results

Men's Golf at Commander-In-Chief's Cup - 1st of 3 teams

Today's Matchups

Men's Golf vs. Commander-In-Chief's Cup -  Mamaroneck, NY -  7:15 a.m.

Women's Soccer vs. Lehigh - Annapolis, MD - 7 p.m.

USNA and AA&F Events

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

3 Oct - 2025 Navy Rugby Alumni Association's 10th Annual "With You" Dinner and HOF Induction

4 Oct - 1958/2008 tailgate for 50 for 50 celebration - Open invitation to A/F and USNA grads and mids to celebrate 50 Years of women - 10 a.m.

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

8 Oct - Greater Southern Maryland Chapter Business Mtg. - 4:30 p.m. EDT Brudergarten

22725 Duke St, Leonardtown, MD 20650 Online event: BOD https://meet.google.com/toh-nvgs-yvn

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

15 Oct - USNI Conference - 8 a.m.

18 Oct - Greater Southern Maryland Chapter Bourbon Night - Tobacco Barn Distillery - 4:30-6:30 p.m. - 24460 Hollywood Road, Hollywood, MD

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

30 Oct - Austin Chapter roadshow - 5:30 p.m. - Fast Friends Beer Co, Austin

31 Oct - North Texas Chapter + NAPC of North Texas Roadshow - 4:30 p.m. - Bitter Sisters Brewing Co, Addison

 

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.

12 Nov - GSMC Social & Business Mtg. Brudergarten - 5-6 p.m - 22725 Duke St, Leonardtown, MD 20650 - Online event: Meet - toh-nvgs-yvn

14 Nov - Run to Honor's annual pre-Honor Our Fallen Heroes Gathering (FAC) - 6:30 p.m. - 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 Conference Football Championship Game, TBD

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

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