MEMORIAL HALL
Recognition of Sacrifice and Valor
Welcome to Memorial Hall, hallowed ground for the U.S. Naval Academy. Here, we recognize distinguished alumni who went above and beyond the call of duty, displaying the highest ideals of sacrifice and valor. We trust your visit here will enhance your respect and appreciation for the men and women who served and continue to serve our nation.
A SACRED PLACE
Memorial Hall is the Naval Academy’s place of highest honor. It is a place for quiet, respectful reflection. Visitors are welcome and should conduct themselves in an appropriate manner. No food or drink is permitted. Please turn off all electronic devices and keep your voices
low. We ask that men please remove their hats when entering the hall.
HISTORY
Memorial Hall was part of the original Ernest Flagg plan for Bancroft Hall and acts as a reminder to midshipmen of the selfless service of those who came before them. Memorial Hall has become a shrine to this institution’s most honored alumni. Past renovations have improved the building’s structural integrity, while efforts by the Naval Academy and the Special Memorial Committee as established by the Alumni Association at the direction of the Academy, have enhanced its dignity and decorum. Today the Memorial Oversight Committee monitors all aspects of Memorial Hall.
What You Will See
“DON’T GIVE UP THE SHIP” FLAG
The replica flag, inspired by the immortal words of Captain James Lawrence in 1813, hangs in Memorial Hall, continuing to inspire midshipmen and visitors alike. The original flag was first hoisted by Commodore Oliver Perry 100 days after Lawrence’s death aboard USS CHESAPEAKE. The original piece of this historic artifact can be seen in the Naval Academy Museum.
MEDAL OF HONOR PLAQUE
Several alumni have earned the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest award for military valor. The Medal of Honor plaque bears the names of these heroes.
KILLED IN ACTION SCROLL
This display contains the names of U.S. Naval Academy alumni who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their nation in combat.
KIA AND OPERATIONAL LOSS PANELS
These panels, spanning the periphery of the hall, list the names of those alumni killed in combat action or while performing military operations.
HISTORIC NAVAL PAINTINGS
Murals painted by renowned artists Charles Robert Patterson and Howard B. French depict scenes from naval history, such as the engagement of the USS CONSTITUTION and HMS JAVA.
Take a moment to watch a short video on the history of men and women displaying heroism and valor in the service of their nation.
SUPPORTING THE CARE OF MEMORIAL HALL
Memorial Hall plaques, artifacts, and displays are maintained with private gifts through the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation. If you would like to join in providing support, visit www.usna.com or call 410-295-4000.
VIRTUAL MEMORIAL HALL
Visit Virtual Memorial Hall to learn more about those alumni honored on the walls of Memorial Hall.
301 King George Street
Annapolis, MD 21402
410-295-4000
www.usna.com
Sponsored by the Class of 1995
USNA Alumni Association and Foundation