It’s one of the most transformative experiences in the life of a Naval Academy midshipman—and it’s just around the corner. Induction Day at the USNA, affectionately known as I-Day, kicks off Plebe Summer at the end of June. It’s the start of an intense, seven-week training period designed to turn talented high school graduates into disciplined, driven plebes—the newest members of the Brigade of Midshipmen.
So, what exactly is the meaning of “plebe?” At the Naval Academy, a “plebe” is a first-year student undergoing rigorous military and academic training. It’s a title that comes with a healthy dose of sweat, learning curves, and pride. For the Class of 2029, around 1,100 young men and women will step onto the Yard on Induction Day and officially begin their transformation from civilians into future naval officers.
On Thursday, June 26, 2025, new midshipmen will report for I-Day with their “Permit to Report” packets in hand. It’s a whirlwind experience, filled with emotion for both the incoming plebes and their families. They’ll arrive at Alumni Hall and begin a carefully choreographed process that’s been months in the making.
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At the heart of this logistical marvel is the Naval Academy Business Services Division (NABSD), a dedicated team that manages 22 business units supporting the Brigade, including the barber and beauty shop, cobbler shop, uniform shop, laundry and dry cleaning, and so much more!
Related: All About I-Day and Plebe Summer
The journey begins along a yellow-taped path on the Alumni Hall floor, guiding incoming students through 24 processing stations. This efficient assembly line includes medical screenings, uniform fittings, and issuance of the famous Reef Points—a pocket-sized guidebook packed with essential facts and expectations that will be thoroughly memorized by the incoming class.
After navigating the process, each plebe hauls their fully packed sea bag to Bancroft Hall, where they meet their detailers—upperclassmen who lead and train them throughout Plebe Summer. Bancroft Hall, the massive home of the Naval Academy dorms, will serve as their base of operations for the summer (and beyond).
Before the sun sets, these new midshipmen gather to take the Oath of Office, officially becoming plebes. It’s a seriously moving moment, capping off a full day of big changes and signalling the official start of Plebe Summer. After a quick farewell to family and friends, the plebes march into Bancroft Hall, and the work begins.
Related: I-Day: A Day in the Life
While I-Day seems to fly by, the preparation begins long before. The NABSD team starts planning nearly a year in advance. In the fall, as the previous plebe class settles into the academic year, NABSD starts reviewing inventory and forecasting gear and sizing needs for the next group.
It’s no small feat—each plebe receives over 300 essential items, from toiletries and bedding to shoes and uniforms. In total, that’s more than 360,000 items to order, receive, unbox, rebox, and organize. And with class sizes not finalized until late spring, the team must use data and experience to estimate the male/female breakdown and order gender-specific items accordingly.
In late spring, as the Brigade Sports Complex melts its ice, the Olympic-sized rink conveniently transforms into a giant packaging facility. It’s here that the NABSD team assembles the Plebe Issue boxes with military precision. Items are reboxed, labeled, and stacked—ready to be transported and arranged into designated dorm rooms in Bancroft Hall.
Come I-Day, every single plebe has a carefully packed box waiting for them, filled with all they need to get squared away for life at the Naval Academy.
It’s an ongoing assignment—after the summer ends, the work continues. The NABSD team fields feedback from the plebes to refine and improve the process for the next year’s class. From newly recommended items to streamlining delivery, every year gets a little smoother thanks to the dedication of this behind-the-scenes team whose mission is to support the Brigade.
When you take one of our exciting Naval Academy tours, shop at the USNA Gift Shop, or dine on the Yard, you’re doing more than just enjoying the beauty and history of the Naval Academy campus - you’re giving back. All proceeds from these activities go directly to supporting the midshipmen. That means funding for extracurricular activities like the arts, music, theater, club sports, and more—resources that enhance the plebes’ experience and foster the all-important camaraderie that builds the Brigade.
So the next time you’re on the Yard, remember: you’re part of the effort that helps transform civilians into confident, capable plebes. Thank you for supporting the midshipmen that support us all!
Welcome to the Naval Academy, Class of 2029. Anchors aweigh!