KINGS POINT, N.Y., June 29, 2018 - The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point (USMMA) welcomed 280, Class of 2022 “plebe candidates” for initial training today.

The nearly 20-day orientation period known as Indoctrination, or Indoc, teaches plebe candidates the basics of maritime and regimental life at USMMA. Training will emphasize military discipline, daily regimental routine, physical fitness, basic seamanship, and an introduction to college-level academics.

The incoming Class of 2022, consists of 280 plebe candidates, representing 45 states and Panama. 13 were class presidents, five were valedictorians at their high schools and seven were salutatorians, with nine named as National Merit scholars. There are 64 women candidates in the class and 55 minority candidates. Eight are legacy candidates (had a parent attend) and 16 had a sibling attend the academy.

“We are very pleased to welcome the Class of 2022 and their families to indoctrination and to USMMA,” said Rear Admiral James A. Helis, superintendent of the academy. “We have great expectations for the class and we wish them the best as they start their journey at the academy.”

Upon graduation, USMMA midshipmen will receive a Bachelor of Science Degree and a United States Coast Guard-issued Merchant Marine Officer License, and a commission as an officer in one of the Armed Forces.

The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, located in Kings Point, N.Y, educates and graduates 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. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Merchant Marine Academy. The Academy, which was established under the Merchant Marine Act of 1936, was dedicated as the United States Merchant Marine Academy in 1943 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. It is administered by the Maritime Administration under the auspices of the Department of Transportation.

On the web: U.S. Merchant Marine Academy

On Facebook: @USMMAOfficial