KINGS POINT, N.Y., November 21, 2024 — On November 18, the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) held its annual Thanksgiving celebration with a Regimental Thanksgiving Dinner in Delano Hall. This time-honored tradition is a favorite at USMMA, offering the entire Kings Point community the opportunity to come together and give thanks for each other.

The event began with the arrival of the Official Party, followed by the performance of the National Anthem by the USMMA Regimental Band. LCDR Jonathan Jones, CHC, USN, Command Chaplain, opened the event with a Thanksgiving Prayer, setting a tone of gratitude for the evening.

Vice Admiral Joanna M. Nunan, USMMA Superintendent, welcomed the guests, including midshipmen who had recently returned from their sea assignments. In her remarks, Vice Admiral Nunan expressed her appreciation for all present, and wished them and their families a Happy Thanksgiving.

Following the Thanksgiving observance, the Commandant's Department hosted the Regimental Change of Command Ceremony. During this important event, midshipmen officers were officially relieved of their duties and succeeded by their peers, who will take on leadership roles for the second half of the Academic Year 2024-2025.

First Class Midshipman Geoffrey Gumport, the outgoing Regimental Commander, passed the responsibility to his successor, First Class Midshipman Cameron Taylor. First Class Midshipman Konnor Bye was relieved by First Class Midshipman Layna Solorzano. Additional Regimental Executive Officer leadership changes included the relief of Commanding Officers for five companies, two battalions, and the Regiment of Midshipmen. A complete list of the officers involved can be found here:  2nd ROTATION (AY 2024-2025) MIDSHIPMAN OFFICER SELECTION

The highlight of the evening was the Thanksgiving dinner, served family-style. The menu included turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, vegetables, and apple cider. BCI's staff and Food Service Director, Antionette Waller, worked hard to prepare the wonderful family-style meal, which featured:

• 100 Turkeys
• 1500 lbs. of sweet potatoes
• 10 gallons of gravy
• 105 pies
• 800 scoops of vanilla ice cream
• 160 lbs. of green beans
• 250 lbs. of stuffing
• 80 homemade centerpieces

The evening was a great success and serves as a reminder that Kings Point has a lot to be thankful for.