May 24, 2008 6:55 pm US/Eastern
Naval Academy Commissioning Held In Annapolis
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ/AP) ―
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Thousands of midshipmen from the U.S. Naval Academy are now officially officers.
CBS
Thousands of midshipmen from the U.S. Naval Academy are now officially officers.
Jessica Kartalija reports Friday marked the Academy's 158th graduation ceremony.
The celebration began before the graduating class of 2008 even entered the Navy Marine Corps Memorial Stadium.
"It's been pretty challenging, but we are ready to go...ready to join the fleet and ready to serve our country," said one graduate.
Proud parents looked on as four very long years ceremoniously came to an end.
"We are extremely proud, he has always been a bright student, but this was a little harder than I think he planned for, so it's been a long four years," said a parent.
Around 1, 037 men and women graduated from the Naval Academy in the school's 158th traditional ceremony.
Chairman of the Joints Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Mike Mullen, addressed the graduates.
"Let me be the first to congratulate you, the class of 2008, on your achievements. Welcome to the fleet, and welcome to the fleet Marine Force," said Mullen.
Then there were three cheers for those about to leave, and three more for those being left behind.
"This is amazing! I have been waiting for this for five years. I went to prep school. It's amazing, great feeling," said a graduate.
It's tradition that a newly commissioned officer give a silver dollar to the first enlisted person or midshipman who salutes him or her.
(© 2009 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
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