Heritage Chair Background
Chairman, History Department
United States Naval Academy
Attachment: Memorandum of Agreement: USNA Class of 1957/ USNA History Department
MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE
USNA CLASS OF 1957 AND THE USNA DEPARTMENT OF HISTORY For the USNA CLASS OF 1957 CHAIR IN NAVAL HERITAGE
"YESTERDAY'S LESSONS FOR TOMORROW'S SECURITY"
The primary purpose of the Class of 1957 Chair in Naval Heritage is to foster in the midshipmen the importance of an understanding of naval heritage to their profession. From its very establishment, the United States has relied upon sea power to defend itself and its world wide interests. The naval leadership that carried out this enduring mission is replete with lessons for today's midshipmen. Similarly, sea power through the ages provides a foundation for studies in sacrifice, courage, fortitude and leadership. Because the United States remains an "island nation" the importance of the naval service is as significant now as it was in the age of Mahan.
The Class of 1957 Chair in Naval Heritage will contribute to the academic stature of the Naval Academy in general and the History Department in particular. Additionally, it will foster scholarship in the world's rich naval history.
The Chair in Naval Heritage will contribute to the Naval Academy in myriad ways; teaching the significance of the naval service now and across the years; working to enhance the study of naval heritage via ongoing initiatives at the Museum in Preble Hall, at the U.S. Naval Institute, and the Naval Historical Foundation; and assisting in the creation of symposia dedicated to the study of naval issues throughout history. The Chair has the very real potential to be a focal point for core values at the Naval Academy.
Successive appointments will be made to the Class of 1957 Chair in Naval Heritage. The intent is to bring to the Naval Academy accomplished and nationally-renowned historians with experience in teaching and notable publication records.\par The Department of History Chair will apprise the President of the Class of 1957 on a regular basis as to the status and workings of the Chair in Naval Heritage. Further, the Department will work with the Chair in Naval Heritage and the Class of 1957 to ensure a meaningful relationship is maintained.