United States Merchant Marine Academy - Midships Yearbook (Kings Point, NY)

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For nearly 50 years a War Memorial has been hidden in Delano Hall...

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THE LAST FULL MEASURE This painting of E.J. O’Hara firing the last five shells exemplifies this year for the Academy. With a new Superintendent at the helm the course was set to fight for the Academy’s life. Under the leadership of RADM Matteson the Academy and its Alumni raged a battle to save the Academy from tuition and possible closure. The tradition of “ACTA NON VERBA” was continued not only in the fight to save our school, but also at sea. When the vessel OMI CHARGER exploded while entering port two of our Midshipmen were there to continue the tradition, Midshipmen Rob Chaney and Reid Hansen. Another Midshipman also received recogintion for service at sea. Midshipman Nate Hodges received the MERCHANT MARINE MERI- TORIOUS SERVICE MEDAL for his actions to save three men aboard the S S SEALAND SPIRIT. All of this happened while the Academy celebrated its 50th Anniver- sary in full fanfare. After the fight is over it is certain that our Academy will continue to serve our great nation in the tradition of “ACTA NON VERBA.” Section Editor: Daniel Foos ZL.

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 The Last Full Measure was one of the Academy’s original War Memorials. The stone carving was placed right into the bulkhead of the mess hall when Delano Hall was being built. As Cadets were reported to be missing or dead their names were added to the two lists on the Memorial. One list was for those missing atsea and the other for those confirmed to be killed in action. After researching this Memorial through the Alumni Office and all other means available there are still many questions that are unanswered. No one knows how the names were updated nor where the plaques or wood lists disappeared to. Hope- fully, some of these questions will be answered when the painting of the S S AMERICA is finally moved. The money has been set aside and plans have been made to move it by Home- coming 1994. It is our sincere hope that the unveiling of the Memorial will help to renew a sense of pride within the Regiment. This is a part of our history that has been forgotten for far too long. We must never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of Freedom and Democracy. This yearbook is dedicated to the memory of the 142 and all other merchant mariners whose ships were lost at sea. Now After 50 Years, It Will Be Unveiled! This Accomplishment Is Due To The Efforts Of: Mr. Rackett'61, Capt. Safarik '61, And Midshipmen R. Edwards And D. Foos