We are the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
The United States Merchant Marine Academy, one of the five federal service academies, educates and graduates leaders who are committed to serving American national security and critical economic interests. As licensed Merchant Marine Officers and commissioned officers in the Armed Forces, graduates of the academy are essential for securing the country’s commerce in peacetime and delivering our warfighters, weapons, and military supplies during conflict. Due to their elite training and real-world experience, graduates are ready to go on day one in service of American military strength and economic power.
The Facts
For 80 years, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy has prepared leaders of exemplary character, skill and commitment to serve America’s marine transportation and defense needs in peace and war.
Recent Developments
The Wall Street Journal gets it. Will Congress?
Slowly but surely, the nation is beginning to recognize that our military sealift is not prepared for an all-out war, be it with China or another major adversary. Last week, the Wall Street Journal reported on the unprecedented strides China is making in its quest to dominate the seas, in large part by bolstering its merchant fleet, which can be mobilized immediately for military logistical use – a crucial reminder that we need to address this issue before it is too late.
New GAO Report on USMMA Campus Infrastructure
The U.S. Government Accountability Office is the latest organization to call out the deteriorating infrastructure at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. In a jarring report issued on Aug. 6, the GAO pointed to “inadequate and outdated facilities that have been poorly maintained. These facilities exhibit crumbling facades, leaking pipes, and water damage.”
Celebrating 50 Years of Women Attending USMMA: NYSE Opening Bell
Fifty years ago next week, the first class of women began their education at a federal service academy. It was the lesser-known U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) that broke this glass ceiling, and on July 5, Wall Street commemorated this historic moment for the nation.