Annapolis

Chapter 7 – Annapolis Climate and Culture

It would have been impossible to predict what would happen during the next four years. I will share with you an insider’s look and description entirely different from the scenes in the movie “Annapolis.”  Honestly, this film was nothing like being a midshipman at Annapolis since it only focused upon only the Brigade boxing championship.  Being a black midshipman at Annapolis for during 1972-1976 presented many different challenges.  Annapolis had its own philosophy, climate, and culture.  Make no mistake: my four years at Annapolis were very challenging, firmly structured, and designed to drive myself well beyond my perceived limits.  

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​There were no women at the Naval Academy in 1972.  In my senior year, the 17th Company controlled the Class President, the Color Company, the Brigade Honor Chairman, and the Brigade Commander during the Color Parade (1976- Chris Ames).  The Captain Donald K. Forbes was the Commandant from 1973-1976.  The Superintendent was VADM William P. Mack (1937) and VADM Kinnaird R. McKee (1951). 

​There were five black midshipmen in the 17th Company class of 1976 in the summer of 1972.  As a midshipman, there were three pathways for a dismissal including failure to maintain a 2.00 GPA, accumulation of more than 300 demerits for disciplinary actions, and an honor violation.  A midshipman does not lie, steal, or cheat under the honor code.  No one from......