This resolution formally recognizes and celebrates the 180th anniversary of the United States Naval Academy, honoring its history, distinguished alumni, and enduring mission to develop leaders for the Navy and Marine Corps.
Sarah Elfreth
Representative
MD-3
This resolution formally recognizes and celebrates the 180th anniversary of the United States Naval Academy. It honors the institution's history, its mission to instill honor and courage in future leaders, and the significant achievements of its distinguished alumni. Congress reaffirms its commitment to supporting the Academy as it continues to prepare leaders for the Navy and Marine Corps.
Congress Sends Official Shout-Out to Naval Academy for 180th Anniversary
This isn't a bill that changes your taxes or adds a new regulation. It's a House Resolution—basically Congress putting its hand on its heart and saying, "Thank you" to the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) as it approaches its 180th anniversary on October 10, 2025. The core purpose is commemorative: formally recognizing the Academy's history, mission, and the massive contributions of its graduates to the nation.
The "Why" Behind the Party
This resolution is structured like a historical highlight reel, making sure everyone knows the USNA’s pedigree. It starts by acknowledging that Secretary of the Navy George Bancroft founded the Academy in Annapolis on the Severn River, setting the stage for an institution focused on instilling virtues like honor, courage, and commitment. For busy folks, this confirms that Congress still sees the USNA as a vital pipeline for military leadership, preparing future Navy and Marine Corps officers to handle modern security challenges. It’s a formal affirmation of their importance.
The Alumni Hall of Fame
The bulk of the resolution is dedicated to listing the impressive achievements of the 93,140+ leaders who have graduated since its founding. This isn't just about military service—though it does solemnly note the 2,700 graduates who died in service, particularly those in major conflicts from the Civil War to the Global War on Terrorism. It also highlights the Academy’s massive impact on civilian life, name-dropping 1 President, 32 Members of Congress, 48 Governors, and 55 astronauts. If you ever wondered about the reach of a military education, this resolution makes it clear: USNA grads are everywhere, from the Oval Office to outer space.
What This Means for the Rest of Us
Since this is a resolution and not an actual law, it doesn't change anything about your daily life—no new taxes, no new speed limits. However, it does serve a crucial purpose: reaffirming the government's commitment to the quality of military leadership. By officially celebrating the Academy's dual mottos—the educational Ex Scientia Tridens ("Through Knowledge, Sea Power") and the determined "Don't Give Up the Ship"—Congress is essentially saying that it values the rigorous education and determined spirit of the people who will be leading our Navy and Marine Corps. It’s a moment of institutional pride and a reminder that the investment in high-quality military education remains a priority.