Naval Academy Plebes Complete Herndon Monument Climb

The U.S. Naval Academy's Class of 2028 completed the annual Herndon Monument Climb, marking the end of plebe year and the transition to fourth-class midshipmen. The event requires scaling a 21-foot monument greased with 200 pounds of vegetable shortening and swapping the plebe 'Dixie Cup' hat for an upperclassman's cover. Augustus Russo, a 6'5" cadet from New Jersey, was the first to reach the top after several attempts, finishing the climb in 2 hours, 27 minutes, and 31 seconds. The climb follows the demanding 'Sea Trials,' which assess the plebes' physical and mental endurance. The Herndon tradition began in the 1940s, with greasing introduced in 1949 and the hat swap in 1962. Superintendent Vice Adm. Yvette Davids praised the class's preparation and spirit, highlighting the event's role in fostering camaraderie and resilience.