USNA Class of 2023 Ship Selection Night

[@dale5497]

I especially liked seeing the welcome from allied navies -what a wonderful demonstration of friendship to the United States.

[@ZATennisFan]

The bi-lateral respect is beautiful to see.

[@henryh3496]

Taiwan is in the house!

[@Butter_Warrior99]

@@henryh3496, It was a mistake to neglect The Republic of China post-World War II.

[@Mr_Zimm]

They are so happy to have another nation foot the bill and blood for their nations.

[@chemoboy-dannypheleps9234]

@@Mr_ZimmAfter Iraq, I don’t blame them.

[@ArtFreeman]

I never knew midshipmen did this. It is fairly exciting. This is a great way to start a career in the Navy

[@erichighsmith7299]

me either... I was told 'hey, you are going to the Momsen DDG-92 out of Everett, WA' not "What base/ship do you want to choose???"

[@CollinFisher]

@@erichighsmith7299 It's just a bit of celebratory theatre. Navy still gets the final say but most 1st Class midshipmen get their first choice.

[@TheCarter_Show]

@@CollinFisherthat’s what I was thinking. It’s just a show but it’s a very good one I can’t lie.

[@chrissheppard3918]

@@TheCarter_Show yes and no these are the "top" of their class graduates so at least for the top 50 or so you would assume its 100% chance they get their first choice after that like it says in the description 93% get first or second choice normally.

[@cleetussnow7159]

All the services have something like this. I assume he carrier people are selecting for naval air? Also, how are they selecting for BUD/S? Many grads do go in.

[@watermouse9296]

I was confused what the colors meant. If you are too, check this out The white placards are for conventional SWO, and SWO engineering duty officer (EDO) selectees only. A yellow placard can be picked by a Conventional SWO, SWO (nuclear) and SWO EDO selectees. A green placard is available to those assigned to the information warfare community. Only SWO (nuclear) selectees, who will attend Navy nuclear power training after earning their surface warfare pin, can pick a red placard. Blue placards, called “blue chips,” are highly coveted; they represent a direct invitation from a ship’s commanding officer for those that did well during Summer Cruise to join that command after graduation.

[@vollelektrolysierer5773]

Any idea on the difference between the white placards with black, red and with green font?

[@caspertoo]

Really cool info, thanks.

[@handydoc2531]

I’m curious about the red placards as they don’t seem to be nuclear powered ships. Why are they getting their surface warfare pin on non nuclear ships?

[@HotCoffee05]

Thank you for sharing this information!

[@afcgeo882]

@@handydoc2531SWO pins are for all surface warfare officers, nuclear or conventional.

[@Sec_ArtChavez]

Watching this was exciting. Almost like a sports draft selection. Congrats to all the graduates. Thank you for your service.

[@jeffburnham6611]

I think this is just ship selection the actual graduation is another event held outside.

[@bermanmo6237]

@@jeffburnham6611 Note the announcer sound like he is head of the US Navy Academy's program to assign graduates to the Surface Warfare Program. I do know that anyone, enlisted or officers, that joined the miitary has to go to basic training. Assuming you graduate, you pick a speciality. Well, these are the graduates who pick surface weapon as their specialty. So, obvious there are other roles in the US Navy. A blogger on here had mentioned there are no pilots; they would go to naval flight school for more training. So, yes, this is not the entire graduating class. The title on the video is obviously clip bait. Obviously, these are the top graduates. You were note that there are some assignments that were not picked. Ionically, I notice one of them was a scheduled to be retired Ticonderoga class cruiser. Note only top gradautes pick aTiconderoga class cruiser as their first assignment. Of course, there are graduates that are not in the top 50 that mostly will be assigned to this ships. It is still a big navy; the navy needs people.

[@noonedude101]

This should be more watched and publicized than the NFL draft

[@anthonyvallillo422]

This is pretty much exactly how we picked our flying assignments upon completion of USAF pilot training back in 1972. Mostly in strict order of merit, and in a public ceremony like this. It has not been like this for many years now, but it sure was a good way to select.

[@jdestefa1]

How cool in this. Especially the foreign Navy officers attending on stage to represent their locations.

[@vatolikhlimentyev6270]

Yup. Those giving the sword from Japan are Japanese Americans; they're wearing the US Navy uniform.

[@JomerTB]

@@vatolikhlimentyev6270 I know your comment is 3 months old and sorry for the late reply but I need correct you so others do not get the wrong impression. Those are not Japanese Americans and they are not wearing the US Navy uniform giving the sword. Those are Japanese Naval Officers from the JMSDF. Notice the ribbons are different from US ribbons and the star on their sleeve is different from US Navy officers. I know this because I was a US Navy officer stationed in Japan from 2017-2019.

[@randomyoutubebrowser5217]

@@JomerTB If im not wrong those are OF-5 and OF-4. Its quite the experience having a couple of OF-4 hyping your placement and waving a flag behind you.

[@mickemike2148]

As a foreigner I think this was awesome! I loved how representatives of other navy's presented gifts. Hopefully the Swedish navy one day can present a sabre at one of these ceremony's, once we are a part of NATO.

[@flybywire5866]

Its just a matter of time.

[@sdot5389]

The sabres were presented by foreign countries that house a US Naval Base - Spain and Japan. I wouldn’t expect the US to have a naval base in Sweden any time soon.

[@sc503-vetnut]

I'm thinking a can of lutefisk would be more traditional.

[@mickemike2148]

@@sc503-vetnut Perhaps you were thinking of surströmming, since it comes in a swollen can when its really ripe? I want to welcome our American friends, not scare them away! Anyway, how about a US Marine Corps brigade stationed on the Gotland island? That would give the Russkies something to think about!

[@MrMojoSuper]

@@sc503-vetnut Lutfisk doesn't come in cans, I think you are thinking about Surströmming

[@charlottetracy3970]

What a great show! Didn't know this existed...saw by accident on KZbin. Congratulations and thank you for your service to all the Midshipmen and Women!!!

[@samnnamani]

What a formidable NAVY

[@beantowner76]

I got this from another post. (FROM NA TOURISM WEBSITE) The board is a mix of colors, representing different commissions, based on the selections midshipmen made in November. There are red, white, blue, green, and yellow placards. The white placards are for conventional SWO, and SWO engineering duty officer (EDO) selectees only. A yellow placard can be picked by a Conventional SWO, SWO (nuclear) and SWO EDO selectees. A green placard is available to those assigned to the information warfare community. Only SWO (nuclear) selectees, who will attend Navy nuclear power training after earning their surface warfare pin, can pick a red placard. Blue placards, called “blue chips,” are highly coveted; they represent a direct invitation from a ship’s commanding officer for those that did well during Summer Cruise to join that command after graduation.

[@sharkbait_11b]

I was literally looking for this answer

[@heythave]

Yeah, thanks.

[@lelandford9683]

Thank you for that info, as a former sailor on the USS Cole (DDG-67). I was confused why they would have a Red placard though... Don't see why a SWO would have to go to Nuclear school for a DDG?

[@PTRRanger951]

This is awesome. It makes it much more enjoyable and interactive than just reading names in a formal boring presentation. Gives the history and shows teamwork. Doesn’t make it something that people are falling asleep halfway through waiting for their assignments. This is how things should be done.

[@bermanmo6237]

I think these are the top 50 graduates. The other graduates that pick surface warfare as their speciality are probably going to be assigned to the ships that were not selected during this ceremony. To pharaphase a line from the TV show Oroville, "You might not be the best. But the Union Fleet has 2,000 ships. These ships all need a captain." So, big navy with a lot of ships need a lot of people to run them.

[@ssn711]

Congratulations to the USNA class of 23. You’re all winners. Here’s to both your future success and that of the nation. Bravo Zulu

[@Vilakazi]

Bravo English

[@CowboySurvival]

Thank you to each and every graduate for your service!

[@ricbarker4829]

We did this in the Australian Airforce for the aircraft technical trades. The higher your ranking on the basic fitting course meant you had the first choice of the "trades" - Armament, Engines, Airframe, Instrument, Electrical or Sheetmetal. Again, the higher you scored on your trade course meant you had the first choice to choose your squadron. If I was 20 again and in the class of USNA 2023, I would have picked a carrier quicker than flies on a rib roast.

[@toga1022]

duh . . . what were they thinking?

[@JesseYVR]

They are thinking of their careers post navy

[@canuckster24]

@@JesseYVR I've watched these selections before and always noticed there was a lack in popularity in Carrier selection, I wonder if it's because carrier commands go to the pilots?

[@chronos401]

@@canuckster24 No, new surface warfare officers' top priority is to qualify in their specialty while also juggling an assigned job, other duties, and watches. It's much easier and faster doing the former on a smaller ship. These midshipmen should have researched which ships are currently in the yards for repairs, scheduled for the yards in the near future, or hanging off the coast somewhere showing the flag. That will interfere with their SWO qualifications.

[@BattalionAngel]

I was stationed on the U.S.S Enterprise, you don't want a carrier. They are nuclear so they can stay out at sea forever. You are limited to the ports you can visit because of the size. You have to climb a lot more stairs and walk a much farther distance for meals. Lastly you have to listen to air craft landing and taking off.

[@mayhewfisher62]

My grandfather, Vice Admiral (Ret.) Allen M. Shinn, was Commandant of Midshipmen back in the day and graduated from the USNA. He would have enjoyed seeing this.

[@alantaylor9593]

Joined the Army in 1986 eventually, I was selected for OCS in 1996... at OCS graduation, students were able to pick our branches... I picked the Army Corps of Engineers which I'm sooooo damn glad, I did. I served for 31 yrs... 10yrs/enlisted [NCO] and 21yrs officer... 😮 ... I got tabs & wings plus three combat tours... basically the best years of my life.

[@TheJonathanc82]

Thank you for your service. You are the pride of a nation.

[@PlasmaCoolantLeak]

A few days ago I saw the video of when this class was reporting in for the first time before being sworn in. Continued success to all those of the class of 2023 who now hold the rank of Ensign or 2nd Lieutenant.

[@Trindal]

Man, I would have loved doing something like this!! USAF has some cool traditions but only certain career fields or Commissioned Officers… I went through a lot of different extra duty training and rank based training, even went to Weapons School training over a half dozen times(for me it was 3 weeks of keeping jets serviced and flight ready for the 4 aircrew being trained and evaluated). Nothing I did in my 10 years of service had this much spirit. Traditions are important. Pride in what you are doing is important. Spirit, Tradition, and Pride in what you do can produce a better service member. After watching the whole video I can say I’m glad I wondered into it. My depression was winning the fight today, but this brought my mood up. I’m truly honored that you ladies and gentlemen chose to serve. May you lead your subordinates with this much spirit.

[@Loquacious_Jackson]

Only officers are allowed to have traditions

[@brandonlikejesus]

No secret there are tons of weebs in the Navy. It's always a race to pick a ship in Japan each year! Love it!

[@navvet4518]

Prior enlisted Midshipman headed to CV70. She has earned her commission! Bravo Zulu ma’am!

[@ntlyburkov]

Amazing ceremony for me, never thought American newly graduated navy officers (midshipman) so openly and festively are getting their assignments on specific ships👍✊💪

[@peteryang4422]

So proud of the young women and men to serve our country.

[@ZATennisFan]

Bravo Zulu to the Class of 2023. It takes a special type of person to get into and then graduate from there.

[@ccchhhrrriiisss100]

Man, I really love the US NAVY! My dad is a Navy vet -- and he really is my hero!

[@BigBurger67]

My dad served during WW2 in the North Atlantic, I never knew they did this, it's the coolest thing I've seen.

[@richgeshel8735]

As a retired Naval Officer, this is the coolest!!

[@NblRhm637]

Proud to have Malaysian graduate from this prestigious academy 👍🏻🇲🇾

[@WanderThisWay]

This is one of my favorite videos to watch every year. So much positive energy. Love seeing the representatives from allied nations.

[@brendasays2324]

Thank you for your service and taking that leap to protect and serve our beautiful country. I wish everyone nothing but the best in your future endeavors with our strong military. 🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽

[@-C.S.R]

My dad served on the USS Enterprise. I'm jealous of the future midshipmen that gets to pick the new USS Enterprise CVN 80, it would be a dream come true to serve on that ship.

[@joshuasill1141]

When I graduated Infantry Training Battalion - San Diego, CA earning that 0311 the instructors gathered us all around in the barracks. All the reservists already knew where they were going since their assignments were already guaranteed when they signed their contract. A handful, which were mostly the low performers, got pulled into 1st Marine Regiment which was 1 mile down the road, and yup they put on their Service Alphas, packed the rest of their gear and marched right down the road (this was in 1999 mind you). The rest of us got the wonderful news that we were all going to 8th Marine Regiment in steamy Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. About an hour before we were to board the buses to take us to the airport our instructors got us into a school circle with a disgusting grin on all of their faces. "Change of plans" they all said, "8th Marines are out in 29 Palms undergoing CAX and the CO wants you all there. So get out of your civies and into cammies cuz ya'll *insert derogatory term for grunts here* is going to the desert. Oh, and ya'lls *insert another derogatory term for grunts here* new companies and platoons is waiting and expecting ya'll!!" Later did I find out, after becoming an instructor myself, that our instructors all called their buddies and people they knew at 8th Marines to give them the heads up of who they were getting, and yes we got a nice . . . warm . . . welcome to our new units.

[@chrisanderson8207]

You ever think that the 'low performers' got the better of that deal? I love the perfection of that moment. "You're shit so you get to stay in San Diego. Everyone else - off to 29 Palms"

[@joshuasill1141]

@@chrisanderson8207 Maybe, maybe not. With 8th Marines undergoing Combined Arms Exercise (CAX) they were undergoing training for an upcoming MEU (Marine Expeditionary Unit) deployment. While those 'low performers' got to hang out in San Diego, hiked up and down the mountains of Camp Pendleton and got hazed to kingdom come, the rest of us got a cruise to the Med, trained with NATO allies, and got port calls in Spain, Italy, and Greece.

[@smeacraptor6641]

We were stoked in SOI at San Onofre when most of us got selected to go to Hawaii with 3rd Marines. Boy we got fucked up by our seniors once we got there lol. We combat deployed 4 years in a row too.

[@bermanmo6237]

@@chrisanderson8207I agrred. San Diego has a nicer climate. Twenty Nine Palms is out in the middle of a hot and dry desert. Rota, Spain might be nice, but there is a reason why the US Navy assigned extra destroyers to serve as air defense ships to defend against missile attacks into Western Europe. So, it is not as one bloggers said, nice place to pick up hot Spanish women. I have never served in the military and never been to Spain, even I think this is a stupid statement. You join the military to defend your country, not there to pick up hot women. Maybe that is what is really wrong with some of the recruits in the military. Perhaps, it is because I grew up in a highly disciplined famlily with a very strong structure. I find interesting that some of the military training videos posted on youtube show recruits that are complete idiots. Some almost seemed clueless about military life is really about.

[@F88koff]

Yeah in bootcamp back in 75, out of our whole platoon, me and about 8 others got selected to train in other technical MOS's due to our contracts.......EVERYONE else ended up in combat arms. Almost all were infantry, with some arty...no tankers or tracks. I went from San Diego to Aberdeen MD.....coast to coast...and after tech school I went right back to west coast.... 29 stumps!!

[@kingofcastlechaos]

Thank you from a regular Joe American who sleeps a lot better knowing our armed forces are arrayed across the globe protecting our interests. I watched the whole thing and it was fascinating. This should be televised on a major network each year. Fair seas one and all.

[@GillD03]

IDK about that, I feel the less people that know about this gameshow bullshit the better. Maybe I'm just bitter but this shit isn't a game.

[@josephschmoe3796]

One of the coolest things I have seen in a while. Good luck to all of the new officers in their first assignments.

[@xnovaluna]

this seems to be a lot like an in-person, live version of "the match" process that 4th yr medical students undergo to match into their residencies. super neat!

[@douglaspaul5030]

How could this be the first time I’m learning of this event? This is fire compared to any draft. In 2024 I will properly prepared to enjoy this with beverages and snacks!

[@davidbryant3532]

Fire? You are the kind that is not needed in the military

[@joelwillis2043]

@@davidbryant3532 Yikes, my guy over here is sus. No cap.

[@Mariner311]

Congrats to the graduates. WHEN did Surface Officers start to get LEATHER jackets ?? Oh those young KIDS - I remember attending my lil brother's graduation from NROTC at UC Berkeley (I was an AW3 way back then) - 36 years later, Mids look the SAME. Is order of selection based on academic/class standing? NICE to see our Allies there to represent and greet young ensigns to be to "their country". Also curious as to the color-coding. Long ago, we did a TINY version of this for my graduating class of AWs (we were Aviation Anti-Submarine Warfare Systems Operators back then, not just Aircrewmen)... I was #2 out of 18, and ALMOST got the orders to VP-31 until the instructors remembered I was a SWIMMER and had to take Helo orders . Again - Congrats you future SHOES .

[@grenadespoon]

It wasn’t that long ago. They got tired of being envious of the airwing.

[@CPT_Nelson]

Wait, this is the very first time I've seen this or even heard of it. Recruits get to pick their own assignment after being randomly picked? What an amazing way to start their career!

[@rudicaV]

It's not random, there's an order of precedence based on grades, rank in the corps of cadets, and other factors.

[@stratbaseballman]

Also, these aren't recruits. These are Navel officers choosing their assignments based on a number of factors during their time at Annapolis as midshipman. Notice they aren't being called sailors.

[@dcpack]

The same process took place during the last week of boot camp for available enlisted billets according to placement by scores.

[@robertelder164]

Pick in order of class rank

[@nickhines8097]

@@stratbaseballman They are just as dumb as an E-2 though

[@mrjuvy49]

This was great to see. I have served as a Navy PACE instructor on 7 of these ships, quite an honor.

[@dmfd305]

This was pretty cool to watch. I know we would have watched this on board ship. We did not like fresh Academy Grads, they were smart, but still had a lot to learn. We did get a couple good ones, they knew their position, but also understood they were still a boot for the 6 months. USNA puts out some of the best once they come down to earth.

[@jbtrimar]

Congrats to all the folks who chose Yokosuka. Spent three years on the USS Midway (CV-41) from 89-91. Greatest billet I ever had.

[@Salish_Redbone]

Tied up straight across from you @ the same time.😀

[@bermanmo6237]

@@Salish_Redbone Given the conflict and the close proximity to China and North Korea, Yokosuka is more like the US Navy's front line. I recalled reading that American Carrier Battke Group that are assigned here have four instead of the usual two Arleigh Burke class assigned to it. I also recalled that are additional Arleigh Burke class destroyers, 6 to as much as 12. I read it from the US Navy's website. This is same for Rota, Spain. This is to defend against any ballistic missile attacks on Western Europe. I believe that is also the role of the additional Burke class destroyers at Yokosuka to defend against ballistic missile attacks on Japan/

[@vidowatcher91]

As an E-1 I got a paper saying "you're going to the Lake Champlain" if I tried to change it they'd give me a new paper that said "we heard your concerns and we are happy you voiced them, we have changed your orders to the Lake Champlain, congratulations and welcome aboard"

[@thenderson5509]

Summer 1987, Operations Specialist A School, similar situation, picking commands based upon grades. I chose ComCarGru5 in the Philippines. Adm Brooks and Adm Lyle Bull. Best 2 years of my time in the Navy.

[@shahjehan]

This was so cool. Much respect for all and wish them the best in their careers.

[@dialytan2002]

The US Navy is gigantic! For most navies in the world, it would take about 15 minutes to work out which of the ten ships you were going on.

[@Lance54689]

Man, how times have changed. My service selection was in a normal room, with a LCDR giving me advice about what to pick. That was it. Certainly no one cheering me on. And then, in a classic '92 move, we hit the town and were such a nuisance we ruined it for the next class.

[@Lance54689]

@@KainsAddiction Not quite grads. They are all 1st Class midshipmen. Service selection happens in the final semester, I think mine happened in February. They graduate in May.

[@robertbrown9860]

This is a lot of fun; it's like the NFL draft, but much more significant - it's all about talented and dedicated young men and women signing on to true championship teams - US Navy/Marine commands!

[@crew-dog2668]

What a great event! We have something similar with USAF navigator selection night. You put your request (dream sheet) in writing months before graduation. The event was held and you were told what aircraft and location you received. It was a wild and fun night. I received my 1st choice and location, so I was super excited and happy. There were a lot of unhappy people as well. ( Wanted a fighter and got a B-52 or tanker.)

[@Zulutime44]

If you couldn't make out the words but could clearly hear the tone of voice and see the antics of the officials, the similarity of this event to a high-value sales meeting in the civvy world is uncanny.

[@brentonholbrook6928]

For me, this night is one of those things that if I knew "back then" what I know now, I would've set myself up to go to the Naval Academy. I'm former Navy, Petty Officer 3rd Class from 2010-2015. I'd like to take this moment to "make my ship selection." I choose the USS Gerald R. Ford, as I am from Grand Rapids, MI just as he. Also the history of his ascension to the White House makes him our only US President not elected to the office.

[@donaldaustin1275]

We did this at trhe end of both A and C schools. It's something to look forward to, to be sure. EW3.

[@janakrcmarova6586]

I did not know it is done this way. It is great, just like draft in sports. Congratulation to all the graduates. And great assignments to them! Please, can someone explain to me what the diferent colors on the signs means? Or please advise me the website vhere it is explained. Thank you in advance.

[@georgeyoung1810]

I love the fact that selection is based on class ranking! Work hard and do well and get rewarded

[@subicstationditosailor4053]

I was an aviation electrician that graduated from A school in 1988. I picked NAS Cubi Point Philippines for my first tour. 3 years of liberty was all I could handle so I got out.😅

[@zandralapoi9203]

Love it that they pick as decided by the OOM!! Hard Work Does Indeed Pay Off!!!

[@5133937]

Really cool how foreign allied navy reps are also there to gift the first midshipman who chooses a station in their country.

[@steve334]

Congratulations midshipmen!! Let’s just hope you get a good posting because about 40% of the officers resign their commissions within 2 years because they hate their posting!!

[@RJG772]

how do they resign their commissions when there is a service requirement?

[@steve334]

@@RJG772 it depends on how long their service requirement is. But if they get a really shitty posting they will find any which a way to resign or try to get a different posting.

[@steve334]

@@RJG772 usually what happens is an officer will do his minimal service requirement, and then resign if he doesn’t like his posting and can’t get a transfer.

[@RJG772]

@@steve334 ok. but the minimum requirement for USNA grads is 5 years. If you graduate you must grin and bear 5 years of your occasional postings.

[@georgebalsa9853]

What a beautiful ceremony

[@samspade3227]

As a retired CPO I’ve trained many ensigns. Good luck, remember fair winds and following seas does not make a good seaman.

[@g-man2228]

America’s future….Looking good!!! From an AirForce Vet! 😉🇺🇸👊🏻

[@lisay.1042]

Congratulations to all the graduates. What a great show. Thank you for sharing this.

[@thatguy7085]

I remember doing this… and having no idea what is was getting into. If I had it to do over again… definitely would have picked a different ship.

[@tamarajohnson5771]

Enjoy seeing this. Had a former co worker son who came out of the academy and found out about this

[@jackogood]

This is so cool, rest of the navy needs to learn a thing or two from this

[@IchimokuCloud]

Wow! Flight jackets for SWOS. What's next? Brown shoes????!!!! Back in the day I picked USS Lockwood FF-1064, "First and Best in the West," Yokosuka, Japan. '82. Got out in '89 spent the next 40 years in Japan as a business exec.

[@jeffsmithist]

Had no idea that this is how ships are assigned. I graduated from USAF pilot training in 1977. They dropped a picture of your assigned aircraft into a slide projector and it was done.

[@streetcar6080]

I believe these assignments have already been done at least personally to the individual graduating cadets. This is more of a show to their fellow cadets and everyone else.

[@davelash8699]

As a civilian I watched this with pride and joy. Good hunting class of 2023

[@Chrysalis-uu5ec]

I just stumbled across this & this may be the best thing I've seen 😂 it's like a reverse NFL drafts & the gifts/flag waving from the other countries is EPIC!

[@DamplyDoo]

This is cool. About 20 years ago i was recruited to the naval academy for sports... But decided on "normal" college instead. Sometimes I wonder what would've happened if I went through... If my son decides to join the usna, i will support him

[@nowayjoseeee]

The Marine Corps was never this exciting lmao. Only thing compared to this was getting my leave request approved.

[@jackmusker]

I have so so many questions about this… 1) do they get a list of all the ships in advance - like a prospectus? 2) is the woman who picked last the worst in her class? 3) In the case of ships, like the USS Zumwalt, which wasn’t picked by anyone - is that embarrassing for the ship / captain? 4) how do they decide? 5) are some ships, like a carrier, viewed as better / more prestigious than say a cruiser? 6) How do they pick the ship no matter what or do they tend to pick a port and then a ship based in that port? Or is it just totally down to the person. 7) can you change your decision? Or is there a strict “no swapsies” rule?

[@SpiritHawk7]

48:20 It's really really rare to get stationed to a carrier for any sailor or officer's first post, so I was quite surprised to find the Nimitz on the board. This is the first time I've seen a carrier on the board. I wonder why it took around 45 minutes to be selected? Though it's stationed at Bremerton, it's currently not there stuck in dry dock. It was currently at sea when this selection took place (it was on a 7 month deployment starting November 2022 and returned at the beginning of July 2023, and then went back out in August 2023). The ship is scheduled for decommissioning in 2026, though that shouldn't be a factor as a SWO's first tour of duty lasts 24 months. Sure, the last bit of their time may revolve around helping to potentially mothball the vessel, but their time aboard will give them experiences to rub shoulders with senior/flag officers and hopefully get transferred to another carrier afterward.

[@antonsjoberg]

Isn't it that he was invited by the commander of that ship and was the only one that could select it?

[@SpiritHawk7]

@@antonsjoberg The Nimitz was yellow. Those types of invites by ship commanders are blue/blue chips. Usually when the midshipmen receives their service assignment in November, they are told then by a representative, and then later in February during ship selection I think they “pretend to choose” to either officially confirm it or just to partake in the ceremony with all the others. I’m guessing that the midshipmen can decline the offer and select different, however, personally I think that would look very poorly on a midshipmen at the very start of their naval career.

[@Josh-kd9pw]

@@SpiritHawk7 It's pretty common for sailors to get a carrier as thier first duty station and there were plenty of midshipmen that choose carriers before the Nimitz. There were was the reagan, washington, and eisenhower as well.

[@alanpeyrot6471]

does it HAVE to last 24 months?

[@fortusvictus8297]

Color of the placard matters, and much of this is kind of show as most of the top of the class are courted/recruited/selected for assignments and this is kind of showing that ultimate selection. Some duties the cadets cannot choose but are chosen and notified.

[@richko7873]

Wow. This was fun to watch. Congrats Midshipmen. Thanks for your service.

[@tmlafrance]

It was also interesting that there were international students going back to their respective navies, which I noticed were all blue.

[@nicholaschan8750]

Malaysia Represent!! Bright young future for him

[@subvet694]

We Enlisted got to pick our First ship off a list based on our final grade point average. Top of class picks and so on down the list. Everybody knew which boats you didn’t want to go to. That’s when being tail-end Charlie academically comes back to bite you.

[@bizjetfixr8352]

So, the boats/ships "you didn't want to go to.. . " Seems to me that you want some of your "best" assigned to correct the situation? I get it, in a way. At a shop I used to work at, we had six crews. One was where all the "problems" ended men's. Problems of various types, including not buying into the corporate bullshit. (It was here that I realized that the main feature of company director and above was being able to tell bald-faced lies to customers and employees, while making it sound legit) And together, they continued to be problems. Every project they worked on was a big Charlie Foxtrot. They put at least two supervisors on meds.

[@subvet694]

@@bizjetfixr8352 More like some older boats were always breaking down and missed getting to go certain places. Everybody wanted a boat in Hawaii, but there usually was maybe one or two billets available. Newer ships got to go on longer deployments and see more of the world. But, alas… occasionally there was the boat with the Command staff that couldn’t find their ass with both hands and a chart . They would be constantly getting “help” from Squadron… Having outside people micromanaging you isn’t tolerated by anybody in any profession.

[@braddawson4496]

Depends on your rating obviously.

[@subvet694]

@@braddawson4496 I was Submarines, so I can’t speak for any other community in the Navy

[@braddawson4496]

@@subvet694 I was on submarines also. In engineering you could be a sub vol and not even get assigned to a sub. If any preference was given by school performance it was behind the scenes and unknown to anyone in the school.

[@Rattlesnake12]

Congratulations on a bright future. Enjoy the best time of your life gob bless and may fair skies and following seas be with you until your voyage end and then take pride and remember fondly the ties that remain with you always.

[@JesusLopez-kn4no]

OUTSTANDING!

[@user-wg3wj6ur9z]

More fun to watch than nfl draft imho. These are good kids and deserve the best.

[@abz5485]

Back in 1996 enlisted also got to choose their base/ship depending on how they finished their A school. They put all the locations on a chalk board and you picked definitely not like this 😂 but for me one of my best memories in my Navy career. Hopefully they still do this for enlisted 18:54

[@corneilusdonaldson1858]

When I graduated A school in 2006, I could select up to 3 locations as a "wish list" but it really didn't matter as most of the class were going to the same place but on different ships

[@forcedtosignup2]

Yep. Orders day towards the end of A school. Selection based on class standing.

[@Cahluvca]

Yep! Graduated in 2000 and remember the chalkboard location/ship selection.

[@GillD03]

Yeah that's called a meritocracy, how a military should work. This actually unnerves me, this shit isn't a game.

[@jonathanbaird8109]

@@GillD03 Since everyone is going to be fucked regardless of where they go as JOs and will probably all treat lower enlisted like shit as military academy grads are wont to do, I don't think it matters.

[@pcgentile]

Haven't been able to watch all two hours of this but...I have some questions. #1 - is the first person to pick the top midshipmen? #2 - do some ships/postings not get picked and what happens to the spot is it not filled? #3 - I am guessing from this no sub-surface posts are available or is that another thing? #4 - is there a significance to the different card colors?

[@realjohnboxall]

Such fine young people. Others in their generation should look up to them - they're all winners thanks to hard work, discipline, dedication and a love for their country.

[@GeometricMason]

As an old enlisted guy I knew this happened, but have never seen the video before. Before it started I said "they should pick small ships (to learn more) overseas" (to have more adventure while they're young." and that's what a lot of the first picks were!

[@daily406]

Anyone know why a lot of the midshipmen from top of the list picked Arleigh Burke-class destroyer? More comfy life? More challenging? Better progression? So curious to know 🤔

[@JarrodLewis]

Likely because they are the test bed for the Aegis systems but more than likely, they liked the home port situation.

[@ethanhiggins4887]

If I went navy SWO instead of aviation I would go destroyers tbh. Just the type of fighting they do and the history

[@Juandinggong]

Who ever get to go to San Diego is lucky! I had such a great time out there and I miss it everyday

[@charlie0871]

Any info on the colors of the ship name placards? I assume some of the colors have to do with the branch of service that the ships are purposed to (LHAs and the Amphibious landing ships for transporting Marines, etc...).

[@chuckwagon7354]

I cannot imagine anything more exciting than this. Or as it is described on the Naval Academy Tourism site 'Woo-hoo worthy'. I really hope at the end of the selections there is a massive party to celebrate the futures of these Officers. I'm hoping reincarnation is a thing so I can come back and experience this for real.

[@bermanmo6237]

I found it interesting some of these graduates selected Yokousa, Japan. This is headquarter of the US Navy's 7th Fleet. This is also the US Naval base closest to South Korea, China, and the Russia Far East. Since 70% of the US Navy is assigned to the Pacific Ocean, this is essentially the front line due to the current conflict with China.

[@firecontrol22]

Exciting! Love and respect and God bless all. Still! Like NCAA & NFL drafts!

[@johnillig7281]

This is the 1st time I have seen this. Congrats to all the graduates. I would like to find out what the different ship designations are. (DDG,ect.) I think I realize that the yellow placards are Air Craft Carriers, but I wonder about the other ones. Thank you.

[@scotthix2926]

DDG is a destroyer, LCC is a command ship. Google is your friend. Yellow does not mean a carrier

[@stevecostello4278]

You get to choose what ship you serve on? Sweet!

[@jonathanshumpert9549]

When I was a student in A school and later as an instructor, the students with the highest grades got to choose orders. It was a good incentive.

[@usnchief1339]

I got to experience that too...good times. Thanks for your service shipmate!

[@cathiwim]

My dad is a 1954 graduate of the USNA, and i didnt know they did this either,! Will have to ask him!

[@johnhill7429]

Congrats to the class. Just a question, what do the different colors for ship name mean?

[@mattwills5060]

The board is a mix of colors, representing different commissions, based on the selections midshipmen made in November. There are red, white, blue, green, and yellow placards. The white placards are for conventional SWO, and SWO engineering duty officer (EDO) selectees only. A yellow placard can be picked by a Conventional SWO, SWO (nuclear) and SWO EDO selectees. A green placard is available to those assigned to the information warfare community. Only SWO (nuclear) selectees, who will attend Navy nuclear power training after earning their surface warfare pin, can pick a red placard. Blue placards, called “blue chips,” are highly coveted; they represent a direct invitation from a ship’s commanding officer for those that did well during Summer Cruise to join that command after graduation.

[@johnhill7429]

@@mattwills5060 Thanks

[@vypersoft1]

Ex Army here...know very little about Navy, but love watching knowing the hard work they put in. Can some point me to a list of the placards colors. I found the solid blue, red, yellow etc. but I don not know white with green text etc.

[@samxyx]

Apart from the location, what are the major differences to consider when selecting a ship to serve on? I’m guessing the size and age of the vessel would be important. Is it more difficult to advance your career if you’re on certain types of ships?

[@harrisoncurrey1578]

Lots of factors, and yes depending on what ship you choose it can be harder to advance not only your career but general knowledge.

[@xplicitmike]

A ship's location, fleet, class/type/size, mission, history, CO/leaders/crew, age, renovations, renown, etc are all things to consider.

[@col4574]

For example,which ships are marked in red?

[@braygun44]

I love how much fun they have with this

[@williammbuvi8307]

Congratulations 👏👏👏😎✋💪🇺🇸

[@brendantibs1217]

DDG-56 will always be my all-time favorite Destroyer I every had the honor of serving from 00-04.

[@patzke]

Congratulations to all on their selections. Is there any significance to the color coding on the ship selections, i.e., white, yellow, red, or green?

[@tg9891]

I am curious as to the same question. What is the significance of colors? Well done Class of 2023.

[@natyong]

(FROM NA TOURISM WEBSITE) The board is a mix of colors, representing different commissions, based on the selections midshipmen made in November. There are red, white, blue, green, and yellow placards. The white placards are for conventional SWO, and SWO engineering duty officer (EDO) selectees only. A yellow placard can be picked by a Conventional SWO, SWO (nuclear) and SWO EDO selectees. A green placard is available to those assigned to the information warfare community. Only SWO (nuclear) selectees, who will attend Navy nuclear power training after earning their surface warfare pin, can pick a red placard. Blue placards, called “blue chips,” are highly coveted; they represent a direct invitation from a ship’s commanding officer for those that did well during Summer Cruise to join that command after graduation.

[@Avoid_The_Clap-Jimmy_Dugan]

So when the Midshipmen went up to The Board, it was already known by all ( the Navy ) which ships they were about to pick as it was already assigned ?