Established in 1845, the US Naval Academy is steeped in tradition, one of the most memorable being the annual Herndon Monument climb, a tradition dating back to 1940. This symbolic ascent marks the culmination of the plebes' first year, a testament to their teamwork and determination.
As plebes, first-year students, they face the daunting task of scaling the monument, slick with grease, to replace a plebe's "dixie-cup hat" with an upperclassman's combination cover. This ritual symbolizes their transition into the next phase of their Naval Academy journey, laden with challenges and camaraderie.
Climbing Herndon is more than just a physical feat; it's a lesson in collaboration and persistence. It underscores the importance of working together towards a common goal, employing basic strategies, and supporting one another through every step of the journey. From lifting classmates on shoulders to locking arms in solidarity, every action contributes to the collective success.
It’s been over four decades since I stood at the base of Herdon, yet the lesson resonates as strongly as ever: success is born from perseverance and teamwork. Whether in the military or in business, the principles remain the same—support your team, raise them up, learn from failure, and persist until you achieve your objectives.
At the Naval Academy and beyond, the message is clear: with determination and unwavering support for one another, there's no summit too high to reach. Let's continue to climb together, honoring the legacy of collaboration set forth by those who came before us.
