KINGS POINT, N.Y., July 14, 2023 – As of today, the plebe candidates of the Class of 2027 at the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) have completed their first full week of indoctrination (INDOC). Last night, the Academy’s 14th Superintendent, Vice Admiral Joanna M. Nunan, met with them for the first time as a group, in Ackerman Auditorium. She began the event with a formal address and then led an interactive session that took on the excitement of a pep rally.

Adm. Nunan congratulated the candidates on their accomplishments and thanked them for their willingness to serve. She discussed how important USMMA graduates are to our Nation’s national security and emphasized USMMA’s mission, especially at a time when our military is facing a recruiting shortfall.

Then Adm. Nunan asked each company about their USMMA experience so far. After each response, she gave feedback on which company was the loudest, which, of course, encouraged them to become louder as each shipmate answered questions.

When Nunan asked, “what is the best part of INDOC so far?” Answers included “shipmates,” “training cadre,” “Waterfront” and “Georgia,” one of the Academy’s service dogs in training. The Admiral also asked if anyone had the responsibility of safeguarding a special item for their platoon. First Company revealed a polar bear that was left behind by an upperclassman. Second Company produced an inflatable shark, and a bottle of hot sauce in a holster. And Third Company, had 2 tiny plastic babies that were left from Mardi Gras 2022. Although the items may look amusing, they create an extra burden of responsibility for the custodian, as they must be carried at all times during INDOC.

Then Admiral Nunan led the Class in recognizing the hard work of USMMA’s dedicated midshipmen and staff. They specifically thanked the EMTs, Waterfront Training Staff, Midshipman Training Cadre, Drill Sergeants, Office of the Commandant, Chaplain, and Public Affairs Officer.

Before returning responsibility of the candidates to the Regimental Commander, Midshipman Katie McGillicuddy, Adm. Nunan asked one plebe candidate to “lead the class in reciting the mission of the United States Merchant Marine Academy.” Plebe Candidate, Sullivan Sirmon, from Platoon 401, did not disappoint, “The mission of the United States Merchant Marine Academy is to educate and graduate leaders of exemplary character who are inspired to serve the national security, marine transportation, and economic needs of the United States as licensed Merchant Marine Officers and commissioned officers in the Armed Forces.”

Candidate Sirmon earned a challenge coin for demonstrating leadership.