#041 The Herndon Climb: A History Lesson about the end of Plebe Year at the Naval Academy

The Herndon Climb Tradition at the United States Naval Academy

Rear Admiral James McNeal joins me to narrate the saga of the Naval Academy's Herndon Climb. The Herndon Climb has long been seen as a milestone event for fourth class midshipmen (freshmen or “plebes”) at the Naval Academy. Demonstrating the teamwork and perseverance they have learned during their first year at the academy, the plebes build a human pyramid to remove the “dixie cup” cover (hat) at the top of the vegetable shortening-covered monument and replace it with an upperclassman’s cover. After successfully completing the Herndon Climb, the freshmen are no longer called plebes but “fourth class midshipmen.”

Together, we peel back layers of history to uncover the spirit and camaraderie that this storied event embodies. Admiral McNeal, bringing a treasure trove of anecdotes from his comprehensive history of the climb, gives us an intimate portrayal of this physical and mental challenge that binds midshipmen in an unforgettable rite of passage.  I reflect on my own experiences, weaving personal stories into today's conversation.

We delve into the creation of Admiral McNeal's book, revealing the meticulous process that captures the essence of the Herndon Climb through the voices of diverse graduates, including groundbreaking narratives from women graduates of the '80s. The Naval Institute Press plays a pivotal role, bringing the Admiral's diligent research and heartfelt stories to a wider audience, offering a window into the enduring legacy of the Herndon Climb.

Share in the reflections on leadership that hinge on the Academy's core principles, as we discuss the role it plays in shaping the midshipmen into leaders of integrity and vision. We tap into the wisdom of military leaders like Admiral Carter and highlight the bonds formed at the Academy that form a lifelong network of support. For those with a keen interest in Navy traditions, aspiring applicants, or anyone who values the intersection of history and leadership, this episode sheds light on why the Naval Academy remains a beacon of excellence and camaraderie. 

The mission of Academy Insider is to guide, serve, and support Midshipmen, future Midshipmen, and their families.

Grant Vermeer your host is the person who started it all. He is the founder of Academy Insider and the host of The Academy Insider podcast and the USNA Property Network Podcast. He was a recruited athlete which brought him to Annapolis where he was a four year member of the varsity basketball team. He was a cyber operations major and commissioned into the Cryptologic Warfare Community. He was stationed at Fort Meade and supported the Subsurface Direct Support mission.

He separated from the Navy in 2023 and now owns The Vermeer Group, a boutique residential real estate company that specializes in serving the United States Naval Academy community PCSing to California & Texas.

We are here to be your guide through the USNA experience.

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