U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Welcomes Incoming Class of 2017

238 Plebe Candidates Start Indoctrination, Receive First Assignments

KINGS POINT, NEW YORK, July 2, 2013 - The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy today welcomed its incoming Class of 2017, consisting of 238 plebe candidates from across the country. Upon arrival, the Congressionally-nominated future Midshipmen began a rigorous, 18-day regimen of academic, military, and physical training known as Indoctrination (INDOC), -- their first step toward becoming future leaders and licensed maritime officers.

“The new plebe candidates make up one of the most diverse classes in Academy history,” said Rear Admiral James A. Helis, Ph.D., superintendent at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. “I look forward to seeing entire Class of 2017 learn, grow and serve their country.”

During their first day of INDOC, plebe candidates received their first berthing assignments, were issued uniforms, received their first military haircut, and learned to salute in their first official formation. 

Upon graduation, Midshipman receive a Bachelor of Science Degree and government-issued merchant marine officer license that will help ensure a steady stream of U.S. merchant marine officers to support the nation’s economic and security interests. Kings Point graduates must serve five years on active-duty in the military or work in the maritime industry for five years, as well as eight years in the reserves.

The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, located in Kings Point, N.Y., educates and graduates merchant mariners and leaders of exemplary character who will serve America’s maritime transportation and defense needs in peace and war. The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy is administered by the Maritime Administration under the auspices of the Department of Transportation.

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