KINGS POINT, N.Y., September 30, 2014 - Today, Midshipmen, faculty, staff and alumni of the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) took time to celebrate the Academy’s 71^st birthday by sharing a birthday cake.

Rear Admiral James A. Helis, Superintendent, Rear Admiral Susan Dunlap, Deputy Superintendent, and Captain Jim Tobin, President of the United States Merchant Marine Academy Alumni Foundation joined the Regiment of Midshipmen in recalling the history of the Academy.  Regimental Commander, Midshipman Nicholas Harvey spoke of the rich history of the Academy, which was dedicated by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt on this date in 1943.  “The Academy serves the Merchant Marine as West Point serves the Army and Annapolis serves the Navy,” said Roosevelt upon dedication.

During the lunchtime ceremony in Delano Hall, Rear Admiral Helis had the honor of cutting the cake. The first piece was given to Captain Tobin, who represented all Kings Point Alumni.  The second piece was given to the oldest midshipman present, First Classman Mario Maddox, born in 1986.  Midshipman Maddox then shared it with youngest midshipman, Plebe Chase Tyner-Hinkle, born in 1997.

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.

On the web:

U.S. Merchant Marine Academy

Maritime Administration

Department of Transportation