Ever wonder what the heck your son or daughter is talking about in their letters home or during phone calls as a Plebe at the Naval Academy? Join us as we break down the unique terminology and traditions that define this intense initiation period, Plebe Summer. 

With insights from Troy Thompson, a 2017 graduate and active duty Naval officer, and Rick Conlin, a 1999 graduate and author, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of the evolving language and customs that have shaped the Plebe experience over the past three decades. From Troy's tales as a former football player and cyber major to Rick's reflections on his Navy days, we aim to make you feel like an insider.

Get ready to learn about the intricacies of Plebe life, starting with the terms "alpha code" and "bulkhead" and their crucial role in daily routines. Discover the disciplined practice of hitting the bulkhead, standing at attention, and maintaining "bearing"—the stoic composure required at all times. Delve into the creative punishments like the "bearing bear" and the significance of collective responsibility, where the entire company faces consequences for an individual's mistake. Our lively discussion highlights the mental fortitude and camaraderie that these traditions foster among the midshipmen.

As we wrap up, immerse yourself in the rigorous routines and humorous mishaps that define Plebe Summer. From the brisk pace of "chopping" and "squaring corners" to the memorable practice of "sir sandwiches," our personal stories capture the humor and intensity of these traditions. You'll hear about the importance of maintaining bearing during inspections and the amusing challenges plebes face. We hope you enjoy this episode filled with laughter, insights, and a genuine appreciation for the disciplined environment of the Naval Academy. Thank you for tuning in, and we look forward to your feedback!

This episode will answer:

• What is an alpha code and what does it mean?
• What is a bulkhead? 
• What is bearing?
• What does it mean to get dropped or put on your face?
• What are chow calls?
• What does it mean to sound off?
• What is chopping mean at the Naval Academy?
• What does it mean to square your corners?
• What does it mean when my child says they have to stick out their paw?
• What is a sir or ma'am sandwich?
• What is bracing?
• What are common punishments during Plebe Summer?

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.

Connect with Grant on Linkedin
Academy Insider Website
Academy Insider Facebook Page

If you are interested in sponsoring the podcast, have an idea, question or topic you would like to see covered, reach out: podcast@academyinsider.com.