KINGS POINT, N.Y., April 2, 2015 – Today, Captain Bob DeStafney, Acting Commandant of midshipmen at the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA), officially recognized the Class of 2018 as Midshipmen.

“I am extremely proud of this class.  Recognition is the capstone event for what has been a very challenging year for the plebes, individually and collectively.  Their classroom performance has been superb, and in the Regiment, they’ve demonstrated the kind of unity and integrity that comes through commitment and discipline from individual members of the class.  The Class of 2018 has been very impressive since day one of Indoctrination. They have more than earned their recognition and I am expecting great things from them over the next three years, and beyond,” said DeStafney.

The plebes assembled in Ackerman Auditorium for a scheduled regimental period, not knowing if they would hear the long-awaited announcement. After a briefing by Commander Andrew McCarthy, supervisory training officer, they were told that they had five minutes to change into boiler suits and muster in formation by company for stretching and physical training. They were then directed to several stations to commence with recognition activities.

Regimental Commander, Midshipman Jerick Sablan, 1/c, addressed the Fourth Class. He said, “Class of 2018, congratulations on completing all the steps for recognition and becoming 4th class midshipmen. This is a milestone in your career here, at Kings Point. It is my distinct honor to welcome you with open arms into the Regiment of Midshipmen..”