KINGS POINT, N.Y., September 6, 2016 – Midshipmen at the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) enjoyed the holiday weekend with their families and friends who joined them for Parents Weekend. Over 1,500 guests joined their Midshipmen for a full weekend of activities that included tours, classroom visits and a formal parade.

The highlight of the weekend was the “Ceremony of Beating Retreat” performed by the USMMA Regimental Band with the Nassau County Police Department Pipes and Drums.  The ceremony is a musical extravaganza with origins in 17th century Europe, which showcases the midshipmen’s musical talent and impressively choreographed marching skill. This year’s event, which was executed entirely by Midshipmen was dedicated to their parents, “for the guidance, support and encouragement you have provided to our future national leaders in training.”

The show included midshipman vocalists MIDN 1/C Rachel Grignon and MIDN Plebe Maxwell, Sommervold, singing “God Bless America.”

Superintendent Rear Adm. James A. Helis, USMS, congratulated the band for their outstanding performance. He made special mention of the fact that many of the band members are plebes and how in eight short weeks of working together they delivered an extraordinary show.

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