KINGS POINT, N.Y., March 7, 2025 -The United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) drill team showcased their skill and discipline at the Tulane University 2025 Mardi Gras Drill Competition in New Orleans, on February 28th. Their perfect score of 200, earned them First Place in the Armed Platoon Basic Drill. Their outstanding performance reflected months of dedication, preparation, and teamwork.

“I’m incredibly proud of the team and leadership who made this possible,” said First Class Midshipman Rhys Krinberg, Drill and Ceremonies Officer. Accompanied by Gunnery Sergeant Wu, the midshipmen demonstrated precision and discipline while competing against highly skilled teams from other service academies and ROTC programs.

USMMA’s victory was made even more special when their trophy was presented by Captain Paul D. Bowdich, USN, KP ’94, Commanding Officer of Tulane University’s NROTC Unit. After the competition, the team visited the City of New Orleans and enjoyed the festive atmosphere leading up to Mardi Gras.

Congratulations to our midshipmen, who added “Acta non Verba” to “Laissez les bons temps rouler.”

Team Members:

MIDN Rhys Alexander Krinberg 1C

MIDN Mason Vaughn Dansbee 1/C

MIDN Grant Saladino Juan 2/C

MIDN Dean Karter Kearn 3/C

MIDN Andersen Maeve Clark 3/C

MIDN Branden Jay Hoffa 3/C

MIDN William Gerard Constant 3/C

MIDN Anthony Wayne Williamson 3/C

MIDN Benjamin Andrew Cloutier 3/C

MIDN Alexander James, 3/C

Plebe Gavin Apisa LaHaye

Plebe Jeremiah David Honsaker

Plebe Maddie Mae Mayer

Plebe Sean Patrick McCrorey

###

The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, located in Kings Point, N.Y, educates and graduates leaders of exemplary character who are inspired to serve the national security, marine transportation, and economic needs of the United States as licensed Merchant Marine Officers and commissioned officers in the Armed Forces. President Franklin D. Roosevelt dedicated the Academy, which was established under the Merchant Marine Act of 1936, as the United States Merchant Marine Academy in 1943. It is administered by the Maritime Administration under the auspices of the Department of Transportation.

On the web: U.S. Merchant Marine Academy

On Facebook: @USMMAOfficial

On Instagram: kingspoint_usmma

On Twitter: @USMMAo

Last updated: Saturday, March 1, 2025