Proud Moment For More Than 1,000 Naval Academy Graduates
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) -- Pomp and circumstance at the U.S. Naval Academy, as the Navy and Marine Corps welcomes more than 1,000 new officers.
Alex DeMetrick reports it's the conclusion of a four year journey.
This is the 165th class to graduate from the U.S. Naval Academy--a ceremony steeped in tradition.
For the more than 1,000 graduates, this day starts early--forming up as midshipmen for the last time. It's a chance to share a group photo or show off class rings before a ceremony formally commissions them as officers in the Navy and Marine Corps.
"It's so exciting. I didn't think this day would ever come. It's awesome," said Katie Quinn, USNA graduate.
"Pretty much bonded as a family, became brothers and sisters along the way. It became easier. Now we're finally here," said Marcus Lewis, USNA graduate.
What comes next is what comes every year--the Blue Angels--and they couldn't be more welcomed.
The day's only somber moment came with a brief remembrance of Midshipman Justin Zemser, who was killed in the Amtrak crash in Philadelphia.
"It's tough. But we move on and we say our prayers and we know he's in a better place," said Adrian Barnaby, USNA graduate.
That loss was touched upon by Vice President Joe Biden in his commencement address.
"Justin was a top student, a gifted athlete remembered as a young man of quiet strength and a man of his word. He would have made a great Navy SEAL," the vice president said.
But remembrance gave way to celebration, as four years came down to a handshake and a diploma.
From here, the graduates get a couple of weeks off before reporting for their first stations of duty.
As of Friday, the U.S. Marine Corps has 264 new second lieutenants, and the Navy 790 ensigns.