Nov 10 Daily Shipmate

Monday, 10 November 2025

1921 - This date marked the first formal commemoration of the birthday of the Marine Corps as 10 November. On 21 October 1921, Maj Edwin McClellan, OIC of the Historical Section, HQMC, sent a memo to MajGen Commandant John A. Lejeune, suggesting that the original birthday of 10 November 1775 be declared a Marine Corps holiday to be celebrated throughout the Corps. Accordingly, on 1 Nov 1921, Gen Lejeune issued Marine Corps Order No. 47 summarizing the history, mission and tradition of the Corps, and directed that it be read to every command each 10 November.

1944 - While anchored in Seeadler Harbor, Manus, Admiralty Islands, the ammunition ship Mount Hood (AE-II) is blown apart and all on board are killed when the 3,000 tons of munitions it is carrying explode. Thirty-six vessels in the vicinity, ranging in size from an escort carrier to a fuel oil barge, suffer damage.

 

1968 - CAPT Thomas Carter '62, USMC was killed in action during a rocket attack on his artillery outpost in Vietnam, where he was commanding Battery C, 1st Battalion, 12th Marines. (He is the only USNA alumni Marine to have been lost on the Marine Corps birthday.) Tom was a highly successful midshipman: participating in cross-country running, wrestling, and reaching the finals of the 155-boxing tournament. He was consistently on the Superintendent's List, and was 3rd Battalion commander and Brigade administrative officer as a 1/c; he graduated 5th in his class. He received a Master's degree in physics from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey. He had only been in Vietnam since August. Tom was survived by his wife, three daughters – the youngest of whom was born twelve days after his death – his parents, and two sisters.

Academy & Graduate happenings

Former Naval Academy Athletic Association Director Chet Gladchuk was presented with the Navy Distinguished Public Service Award—the Department of the Navy's highest civilian honor. Celebrated for 24 years of visionary and transformative leadership which redefined Navy Athletic. Gladchuk helped raise more than $225 million while strengthening the partnership between Navy Athletics and the Alumni Association and Foundation. U.S. Naval Academy Superintendent LtGen Michael Borgschulte '91, USMC, presented the award, commending Gladchuk's unwavering belief that athletics build leadership. Foundation Board Chairman Ron Terwilliger '63 and USNA AA&F President and CEO Jeff Webb '95 praised Gladchuk's enduring influence, mentorship and legacy of excellence. After a thunderous applause and two standing ovations, Gladchuk acknowledged and credited his success to teamwork, midshipmen and the friendships forged throughout his tenure.

In recognition of the U.S. Marine Corps 250th birthday today, the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association & Foundation visited Parris Island, SC to capture a story on alumni helping shape the next generation of Marines. Shipmate magazine will feature the full piece in the Nov–Dec issue, expected to hit mailboxes the first week of December.

To kick off today's celebration, check out this video featuring several U.S. Naval Academy alumni stationed at Parris Island. They are dedicated to ensuring the Marine pipeline remains strong. Their unwavering efforts help produce Marines who embody the non-negotiable traits of honor, courage and commitment that have defined Parris Island for 110 years.

Happy 250th birthday to the United States Marine Corps! Semper Fi!

Led by commanding general LtGen Christian Wortman '91, USMC USNA alumni representation across the I MEF staff is strong 💪🏻. Pictured left to right: Col Michael Ogden '98, USMC; LtCol Lindsay Pirek '09, USMC; Maj Heather Ichord '05, USMC; Capt McKenzie Margroum '17, USMC; LtGen Christian Wortman '91, USMC; Col Kevin Stepp '02, USMC and Maj Catherine DeLeal '03, USMC.

With Lake Michigan as the backdrop, Commander John R. Kemble '51, USN (Ret.), and Ensign Thomas Jennings '25, USN, stood before 60 members of the Naval Academy alumni community Kemble and Jennings were the most senior and junior Naval Academy alumni at the Chicago Yacht Club on Friday 7 November. They represented eight decades of alumni amongst a gathering hosted by the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association's Chicago chapter. U.S. Alumni Association & Foundation President (USNA AA&F) and CEO Jeff Webb '95 said the span between the two alumni far surpassed the 50-year Another Link in the Chain's class connections. “This is pretty special,” Webb said. “I don't think I've seen a 74-year spread before. That's a link and a half.” Webb also noted the strong connection between Chicago's chapter and its Parents Club. Twenty parents registered to attend the event, including one for a Class of 2030 candidate.

“That's the best of our community, when parents are really integrated with the chapters,” Webb said.

Paul and Suzanne Lee, parents of Midshipman Beauregard '29, attended the chapter luncheon. They appreciate being involved with the alumni community. Suzanne Lee said her family has received lots of support from fellow parent club members. Beauregard made the Academy's Jazz band but didn't bring his saxophone to Annapolis. Through the parent club network, another mother offered to carry the saxophone on her flight to Maryland. She said another parent has offered to drive her son home for Thanksgiving break. “Being involved with the community, meeting people and being a part of the community is very important,” Paul Lee said. Chicago chapter Past-President Commander Fred Weber '75, USNR (Ret.), emphasized the value of the alumni community network that includes friends and parents.” “Staying connected is vital,” Weber said. “We try to include (parents) as much as we can.”

Members of the USNA AA&F engagement and communications teams attended the chapter meeting to support members. Interviews were conducted with alumni in preparation of Shipmate's efforts to produce stories for the 25th anniversary of 9/11 and the 50th anniversary of women at the Naval Academy throughout 2026. Stay tuned for even more coverage in tomorrow's Daily Shipmate.

In Episode 8, Naval Academy history professor Miles Yu joins the discussion on the Great Power Competition and the rising strategic challenges posed by China. Drawing on his experience as a former State Department advisor, Yu explores the ideological, economic, and military dimensions of U.S.–China rivalry—what he calls “Cold War 2.0.” He contrasts China's “hard, soft, and sharp power” tactics with America's democratic strengths, examines China's global influence efforts, and underscores the importance of cultivating informed, disciplined leaders at the Naval Academy. The conversation highlights how education, awareness, and unity of purpose are vital as midshipmen prepare for an era defined by near-peer competition and complex geopolitical threats.

Government & Military News

For one quarter of a millennium, we have defended our country. From the birth of our nation during the American Revolution, to the end of the Global War on Terror, our role as a naval-based amphibious force has played a defining role in turning the tides of each conflict into our Nation's favor. We have fought in every climate and place, and we maintain readiness to continue to be America's 9-1-1 anytime and anywhere we are called upon. Here's to the next 250. Semper Fidelis & Happy Birthday, Marines!

The Los Angeles-class improved-attack submarine USS Cheyenne (SSN 773) held a change of command ceremony at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Kittery, Maine, 11 July. Commander Mark Rostedt '07 relieved Cmdr. Kyle Calton as commanding officer during the event. “You are bringing your great warship back to sea,” said Capt. Mark Robinson, Deputy Commander Submarine Squadron Four, who served as guest speaker. “The hard work you are doing right now, is what will provide our country one of its most prized weapons, a highly trained fast-attack submarine. You are part of bringing this most important asset back to sea.”brag on the remarkable work each and every one of you has put into getting Cheyenne where it is today.” Rostedt is a 2007 graduate from the U.S. Naval Academy.

Local, Education & other academy news

As part of North Carolina's military appreciation game on Saturday against Stanford, Mike Priefer '89 joined the Carolina Football Live radio show on Thursday night to recount his journey from serving in the Navy to working as special teams coordinator for the Tar Heels under Bill Belichick. Priefer graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1989, where he played quarterback and receiver for the Midshipmen. He served as a naval officer until 1994, piloting helicopters abroad, including tours in Somalia, Bosnia and the Persian Gulf. Then, Preifer returned to the Naval Academy to work as a flight instructor before “backdooring” his way into coaching as a graduate assistant for the football program. Three years later, he left Navy to pursue a full-time career in coaching as the special teams coordinator at Youngstown State. From there, Priefer eventually worked his way into the NFL, where he spent 20 years across stops with the Jacksonville Jaguars, New York Giants, Kansas City Chiefs, Denver Broncos, Minnesota Vikings and Cleveland Browns.

Join us (virtually or in-person) this Veterans Day at the U.S. Navy Memorial in Washington, D.C. for a solemn Wreath Laying Ceremony honoring the service and sacrifice of America's veterans. Tuesday, 11 November 2025. 1:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Featuring the United States Navy Band and the United States Ceremonial Guard, this annual event brings together veterans, families, active-duty service members, and the community to pay tribute to all who have worn the nation's uniform. Located just steps from the National Mall, the Navy Memorial is proud to host this public ceremony as part of its ongoing mission to honor, recognize, and celebrate the men and women of the Sea Services.

The season of giving and gifting is less than 50 days away and we've teamed up with Forever Firstie to bring you a stunning new book on the USNA Brigade of Midshipmen Chapel. Packed with breathtaking photos and rich history, this is a holiday gift your Firstie, Mid, parent, alum or any USNA supporter won't already have. Honor the Academy's legacy this holiday season—grab your copy now and give the gift of tradition! 🎁

Naval Academy Athletics News & Results

Sprint Football vs Caldwell – W 56 - 14

Men's Squash vs Fordham – W 9 - 0

Men's Water Polo at George Washington – W 14 - 11

Women's Basketball at Delaware – W 68 - 61

Men's Basketball vs Yale – L 68 - 97

 

Men's Lightweight Rowing at Wahoo Henley – Completed

Men's Squash vs Bucknell – W 9 - 0

Wrestling vs Appalachian State – W 27 - 13

Men's Swimming & Diving vs American – W 189 - 96

Men's Swimming & Diving vs Bucknell – W 185 - 104

Men's Swimming & Diving vs Lafayette – W 188 - 94

Women's Swimming & Diving vs American – W 177 - 111

Women's Swimming & Diving vs Bucknell – W 177 - 112

Women's Swimming & Diving vs Lafayette – W 188 - 101

Women's Triathlon at NCAA Championship – 13th of 36 Teams

Women's Volleyball vs Loyola Maryland – W 3 - 1

Wrestling vs No. 14 Rutgers – L 12 - 24

Men's Squash vs Denison – W 9 - 0

Football at Notre Dame – L 10 - 49

 

Women's Rowing at Rivanna Romp – Seventh in the Varsity 8+

Men's Tennis vs Navy Invite – NTS

Men's Squash vs North Carolina – W 9 - 0

Wrestling at Journeymen Collegiate Classic – NTS

Men's Squash vs Georgetown – W 9 - 0

Women's Volleyball vs American – L 0 - 3

 

Army - Navy Star Series: Army leads 4-2-1 (Army - Volleyball, Men's Soccer, Women's Rugby, Women's outdoor. Navy - Men's Golf, Men's Cross Country. Tie - Women's Soccer)

 

6 Dec - M. Swim & Dive - Annapolis - Noon

6 Dec - W. Swim & Dive - Annapolis - Noon

13 Dec - Football - Baltimore, Md. - 3:00 p.m.

7 Feb - Rifle - West Point - 9:00 a.m.

7 Feb - Gymnastics - Annapolis - 2:00 p.m.

7 Feb - M. Indoor Track & Field - Annapolis - TBA

7 Feb - W. Indoor Track & Field - Annapolis - TBA

20 Feb - Wrestling - Annapolis - 7:30 p.m. - Alumni Hall

21 Feb - W. Basketball - West Point - TBA

21 Feb - M. Basketball - West Point - TBA

11 Apr - M. Outdoor Track & Field - West Point - TBA

11 Apr - W. Outdoor Track & Field - West Point - TBA

TBA - Baseball - Annapolis

TBA - M. Lacrosse - West Point

TBA - W. Lacrosse - Annapolis

TBA - M. Tennis - Annapolis

TBA - W. Tennis - Annapolis

USNA and AA&F Events

10 Nov - Marine Corps Birthday

10 Nov - Pensacola Congressional Academy Day - Naval Aviation Museum - Pensacola, FL

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 - U.S. Naval Academy Athletic & Scholarship Program Fall Meeting, NMCMS

15 Nov - Navy vs University of South Florida, NMCMS

15 Nov - Honor Our Fallen Heroes ceremony, USNA Chapel - 9 a.m.

15 Nov - Honor Our Fallen Heroes tailgate luncheon, NMCMS - 10 a.m.

17 Nov - Council of Class Presidents Fall meeting, Fluegel Alumni Center

18-19 Nov - U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association Board of Trustees Fall Meeting, FAC

19-20 Nov - SACC Chicago

20 Nov - Naval Academy Service Assignment Notification

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

 

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

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

10 Dec - Greater Southern Maryland Chapter Social & Business Mtg. - 5-6 p.m. - Brudergarten, 22725 Duke St, Leonardtown, MD 20650. Online event: https://meet.google.com/toh-nvgs-yvn

12 Dec - Greater Southern Maryland Chapter - 8:30-10 a.m. - Taphouse, 1637 23418 Three Notch Rd, California, MD 20619, USA

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

 

4 Jan - USNA Semester Leave ends

6 Jan - USNA Classes Begin, Spring Semester

10 Jan - Pensacola Chapter Congressional Academy Day - 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. - National Naval Aviation Museum, Pensacola, Fl.

24 Jan - Thriving as Leaders Award Recognition, Fluegel (TBD)

 

14 Feb - Commissioning 101, Fluegel

19 Feb - USNA Entrepreneurs event, 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. - Fluegel