KINGS POINT, N.Y., September 29, 2017 - Today, Midshipmen, faculty, staff and alumni of the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) took time to observe the Academy’s 74^th birthday, which occurs on Saturday, 30 September.

Rear Admiral Susan Dunlap, Deputy Superintendent, and Captain Mike Stroud, Commandant of Midshipman, joined the Regiment of Midshipmen in recalling the Academy’s contributions to the Nation since its earliest days at Kings Point.  

USMMA Alumnus, Head Football Coach, Michael G. Toop ’77, spoke of the rich history of the Academy, which was dedicated by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt on September 30, 1943.  “The Academy serves the Merchant Marine as West Point serves the Army and Annapolis serves the Navy,” said Roosevelt.

After the observance the Academy celebrated by sharing a birthday cake.

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.