U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Announces Acceptance Day Ceremony and Parade

KINGS POINT, NEW YORK, September 3, 2013 - The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) will welcome 237 “plebe candidates” of the Class of 2017 into the Regiment of Midshipmen as they take the Academy oath administrated by Rear Admiral Helis during Acceptance Day Ceremony and Parade, Saturday, September 7, 2013 at 9:30 a.m.

They will be sworn in as U.S. Navy Reserve midshipmen by Vice Admiral Robin R. Bruan, chief of Navy Reserve, commander, Navy Reserve Force. Braun has accumulated 5,800 flight hours in Navy aircraft. Her awards include Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit (three awards), the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (two awards), and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (three awards).

On Friday, September 6, 2013 at 7:30 p.m. “The Ceremony of the Beating Retreat,” a musical extravaganza takes place as a tribute to the midshipmen’s parents for the guidance, support and encouragement provided to our new future “national leaders.” The program includes a special joint performance with the Nassau County Police Pipes and Drums as part of the grand finale.

WHAT: Acceptance Day Ceremony and Parade – marks the official advancement of the Class of 2017 from their status as “plebe candidates” to “plebes,” and their formal acceptance into the Regiment of Midshipman and the U.S. Navy Reserve.

WHO: Acting Maritime Administrator, Paul “Chip” Jaenichen

Chief of Navy Reserve, Vice Admiral Robin R. Braun

USMMA Superintendent, Rear Admiral, James A. Helis Ph.D.

Deputy Superintendent, Rear Admiral Dunlap

Commandant Capt. Kennedy

Deputy Commandant, Capt. DeStafney

WHEN & WHERE:

• Friday, Sept 6, at 7:30 p.m., “The Ceremony of the Beating Retreat” O’Hara Hall
• Saturday, Sept. 7, at 9:30 a.m., Brooks Stadium, Tomb Field