Video

Video by Spc. Daniel Bendjy

Merchant Marine Indoctrination Day

361st Theater Public Affairs Support Element

June 29, 2018 | 3:58

The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, or USMMA, welcomed 280
Class of 2022 "plebe candidates" for initial training on June 29th.

The nearly 20-day orientation period known as Indoctrination, or Indoc,
teaches plebe candidates the basics of maritime and regimental life at
USMMA. Training will emphasize military discipline, daily regimental
routine, physical fitness, basic seamanship, and an introduction to
college-level academics.

The incoming Class of 2022 consists of 280 plebe candidates, representing 45
states and Panama. 13 were class presidents, five were valedictorians at
their high schools and seven were salutatorians, with nine named as National
Merit scholars. There are 64 women candidates in the class and 55 minority
candidates. Eight are legacy candidates (had a parent attend) and 16 had a
sibling attend the academy.

"We are very pleased to welcome the Class of 2022 and their families to
indoctrination and to USMMA," said Rear Admiral James A. Helis,
superintendent of the academy. "We have great expectations for the class and
we wish them the best as they start their journey at the academy."

Upon graduation, USMMA midshipman will receive a Bachelor of Science Degree,
a United States Coast Guard-issued Merchant Marine Officer License, and a
commission as an officer in one of the Armed Forces.
(U.S. Army video by Spc. Daniel Bendjy)