I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to provide a keynote address to the incoming plebes and their families at the Southern California Naval Academy Parents Club Welcome Aboard event last week. In an attempt to increase it's reach, I will share my message via writing as well. Here's w...

The Midshipman's Daily Routine: What Changed This Academic Year (2025-2026) As a supporter of a United States Naval Academy Midshipman, you're probably curious about what your midshipman's daily life looks like now that they've transitioned from Plebe Summer to the academic year. Let me walk you...

During the first two years of a midshipman’s time at the Naval Academy, he or she has the option to leave with virtually no consequence. Mids can “walk away” so to speak; if they feel the Academy is just not the right fit for them, they can resign, transfer to another university, and continue the...

Healing Out Loud: A Naval Academy Mother's Journey Through Loss, Healing, and Mental Health Advocacy As a loved one of a person at the Naval Academy, I know you have an immeasurable pride in your midshipman's accomplishments. Their dedication, intelligence, and drive are truly remarkable. Howev...

Prioritizing Sleep: The Unsung Hero of Midshipman Excellence As a parent of a United States Naval Academy Midshipman, you've likely heard countless stories about the rigorous academic and physical demands placed on these future naval officers. But there's one crucial aspect of their development ...

The Ultimate Guide to Letters and Care Packages 2024 What to Send Your Plebe During Plebe Summer (and How to Make Sure It Actually Gets There) As the emotions of Induction Day begin to wear off and the reality that your plebes have now begun their USNA journeys starts to set in, the question...

Parents Should Prepare for Plebe Summer Too Parents for the Class of 2028, your future plebes will likely be working hard to prepare for plebe summer because the USNA journey is different than most. Parents should be thinking about navigating their journey at the United States Naval Academy too...

  The Tradition of the Herndon Climb at the United States Naval Academy The Herndon Climb is the rite of passage for plebes who at the end of their plebe   year, before they can officially be considered  4/c midshipmen are required to climb The Herndon Monument. The Herndon Monument is a 21 ...

The First Salute Tradition at the United States Naval Academy  In this blog post I will share When and how the first salute happens traditionally at the Naval Academy A little about my first salute  A history of the first salute tradition What kind of coin is traditionally used? Where can...

It’s back!! It’s the return of the Academic Year for the mids, which means it’s also the return of Pro-Know for the plebes.  I hope this blog post will provide you with a brief background of the in depth knowledge the plebes are required to learn this week!  This week’s subject is the one subject...