KINGS POINT, N.Y., February 20, 2025 - Eight midshipmen from the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) and USMMA Command Chaplain Jonathan Jones, CHC, attended the 2025 National Prayer Breakfast (NPB) in Washington, D.C., February 7th and 8th. The gathering brought together political leaders from 120 nations, including President Donald J. Trump. 
Chaplain Jonathan Jones, shared, “the midshipmen spent two days learning about faith as it meets DC, hearing from keynote speakers including the President of the United States, the First Lady of Rwanda, the President of Kosovo, and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, as well as Congressman Tom Suozzi, representative for Kings Point’s district.” 
 
First Class Midshipman Alex Burita, Regimental Chapel Liaison, said, “attending the National Prayer Breakfast was a massive honor for myself and my fellow midshipmen. It was an amazing experience to stand in prayer amongst some of the most prominent leaders from around the globe.” He added, “hearing various testimonies of faith was a powerful reminder that faith transcends borders in a world that is often divided.”
 
On Wednesday evening, the midshipmen joined 17 cadets and midshipmen from USMA, USCGA, and USNA for an incredible Spiritual Heritage Tour of the U.S. Capitol, sponsored by Congressmen Steve Womack and Juan Vargas. The tour concluded with a prayer on the floor of the House of Representatives.
 
On Thursday morning, while the President and Members of Congress met at the Capitol, the midshipmen and Chaplain Jones joined 2,500 for the National Prayer Gathering Breakfast at the Washington Hilton. The program included prayers, scripture readings, and worship music by Stephen Curtis Chapman. Former Ambassador Sam Brownback was the main speaker for the event. President Trump surprised everyone with an unannounced appearance to deliver his remarks in person. 
 
Midshipmen participated in seminars continuing the theme of “Change Your Thinking,” including discussions on First Nations and the U.S. Literacy Crisis. Speakers at the International Lunch included Dr. Vjosa Osmani, President of Kosovo; Governor Glenn Youngkin; and May Golan, Member of the Israeli Knesset.
 
In the afternoon, the midshipmen and cadets engaged in intense leader development conversations with Major Genera Julie Benz, U.S. Army, retired, among other senior military officers, and a former Member of Parliament. The main topics of discussion were problem-solving and the challenge of integrating faith and profession. Evening session speakers included Speaker of the House Mike Johnson and Evariste Ndayishimiye, President of Burundi.
 
First Class Midshipmen in attendance included: 

• Alex Burita – Regimental Chapel Liaison
• Casey Cool – President of Christian Fellowship Club
• Ryllie DuRant – Leader of Women’s Bible Study
• Karl Krueger – Leader of Knights of Columbus
• Stephen Pavlansky – Leader of Men’s Bible Study
• Margaret Ripperger – Leader of Women’s Bible Study
• David Smith – Leader of Men’s Bible Study

Second Class Midshipman in attendance: 

• Cameron Stanley – Regimental Chapel Liaison Petty Officer

In a letter to Vice Admiral Joanna M. Nunan, Superintendent, Captain Jerry Hale, USCG (Ret), Legislative Chaplain at The Leaders of Faith Foundation, said the midshipmen, “represented the Academy in a most superb manner at this significant international event! I have the utmost confidence that each of these young leaders will have a significant positive impact on their generation in the years to come!”