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This article in RealClearDefense is published in honor of Maritime Day 2025. Thanks to the efforts of many, there is growing recognition of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy’s mission, the value of its militarily obligated graduates, and the urgent need to modernize the Academy’s physical infrastructure.

The op-ed highlights progress made in Washington over the past several months. It is encouraging to see Republicans and Democrats coming together around the goal of restoring America’s maritime strength. The White House, Congress, and the Department of Transportation are united in their commitment to revitalizing U.S. shipbuilding, strengthening military sealift, and investing in the development of militarily obligated Merchant Marine officers—efforts that include long-overdue repairs and upgrades to the USMMA campus.

This is about more than just buildings; it’s about national security, military readiness, and ensuring we can continue to attract and train the next generation of service-obligated merchant marine officers. The op-ed serves as a helpful summary of the case for sustained investment in the USMMA.