Can you imagine the profound impact a simple posture correction technique can have on discipline? Brace yourselves as Ricky, Troy, and I unpack the unique terminologies and practices of Plebe Summer at the United States Naval Academy. This episode dives into the physical and emotional rollercoaster of "bracing up," reveals the secrets behind the mnemonic "ditties," and decodes the meaning of "sticking out a paw." Our discussion sheds light on how these seemingly small practices play a critical role in the midshipman experience.

Prepare to be learn about all the different definitions and contexts surrounding the word "rate" and the accountability it enforces. We also tackle the notorious "chow calls" — an experience that’s part alarm clock, part performance test — detailing how plebes navigate the high-pressure environment of memorizing menus and making constant announcements. Through Ricky and Troy's personal anecdotes, you'll get an insider's look at how these challenges build camaraderie and resilience, painting an authentic picture of life at the Naval Academy.

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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