From the Yard to the Sea

After four years as Midshipmen at the United States Naval Academy, it is time to walk across the stage and throw their hats in the air.  It is officially commissioning week in Annapolis!  There is something planned every day leading up to graduation.

The favorite event during graduation week is the performance of the Blue Angels, who will be flying 6 Navy F/A-18 Hornets.  They will perform a variety of high-speed, aerobatic precision-maneuvers above the Severn River.  The Blue Angels will have a practice performance on Tuesday, May 24, with their performance scheduled for Wednesday, May 25.  The Blue Angels perform all across the nation and this performance in Annapolis brings thousands of spectators from around the country.

Along with the Blue Angels performance, there are many award ceremonies, parties, and various performance around the city and on the Yard.  In addition, there is the Army/Navy baseball games.  The 3 game series will determine the winner of the Patriot League, who will receive an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament. Family and friends come from all over the country to watch their loved one graduate from one of the most prestiguous colleges in the country. 

Graduation will take place on Friday, May 27 at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium.  This year's guest speaker is the Secretary of Defense, Secretary Robert Gates.  Unfortunately, the graduation ceremony is not open to the public, however it will be broadcast on the local television and radio stations. 

Congratulations to the class of 2011 and thank you for serving our country!