Naval Academy plebes conquered a slippery 21-foot obelisk in just over 2 hours, marking their triumphant transition from first-year midshipmen in a tradition that has tested naval courage for over 80 years.

At a Glance

• The Class of 2027 took 2 hours, 19 minutes, and 11 seconds to complete the annual Herndon Monument climb
• Approximately 1,300 plebes worked together to scale the 21-foot obelisk covered in vegetable shortening
• Ben Leisegang, a 20-year-old from California, successfully placed the upperclassman’s hat atop the monument
• The tradition dates back to 1940, with grease being added to increase difficulty in 1949
• The event marks the official end of the challenging plebe year at the Naval Academy

America’s Naval Tradition of Determination

In a display of American military tradition and teamwork, the U.S. Naval Academy’s Class of 2027 completed their rite of passage through rain and grease on May 14. Approximately 1,300 first-year midshipmen gathered to scale the Herndon Monument, a 21-foot granite obelisk thoroughly coated with slippery vegetable shortening. The goal: replace the “Dixie cup” plebe hat at the top with an upperclassman’s hat, symbolically ending their freshman year and advancing in rank.

The plebes formed human pyramids and supported each other’s climb in the annual event that tests their ingenuity, perseverance, and teamwork. Despite challenging rainy conditions that made the already slippery monument even more treacherous, the midshipmen remained determined. Water sprayed from the crowd as the young men and women stacked themselves into human ladders, demonstrating the exceptional fortitude expected of future naval officers.

Triumph Through Adversity

Ben Leisegang, a 20-year-old plebe from California, emerged as the hero of this year’s climb. After reaching the summit, Leisegang encountered an unexpected challenge when his first attempt to replace the hat didn’t go as planned – the plebe “Dixie cup” remained stubbornly in place after he set the upperclassman’s hat. The crowd held their breath as Leisegang and his teammates quickly regrouped, refusing to let this setback defeat them.

“All I have to say is: We went out there. We executed on the controllables, and that was working together. Let’s Go!”, said Ben Leisegang.

With the support of his fellow plebes, Leisegang made a second successful attempt, knocking down the Dixie cup and properly placing the upperclassman’s hat. The official time was recorded at 2 hours, 19 minutes, and 11 seconds – not the fastest in the tradition’s history, but a respectable showing given the rainy conditions and the additional challenge of the stuck hat.

A Rich Military Heritage

After the successful climb, Academy Superintendent Vice Admiral Yvette M. Davids addressed the class and introduced Leisegang to the cheering crowd. The Vice Admiral highlighted the significance of the tradition and what it represents for the naval service and the nation. The event connects today’s midshipmen with generations of naval officers who faced the same challenge dating back to 1940, when the tradition first began.

The placement of an officer’s cap atop the monument became part of the ritual in 1947, and grease was added in 1949 to increase the difficulty. Over the decades, completion times have varied dramatically – from the record-setting pace of just 1 minute, 30 seconds in 1969 to the grueling marathon of over four hours in 1995. Each class faces unique conditions and challenges, making every year’s climb a distinct chapter in Naval Academy history.

Beyond a Physical Challenge

The Herndon climb represents more than just a physical feat. It symbolizes the transformation of civilians into naval officers and illustrates the core values of the service: honor, courage, and commitment. By working together to overcome a seemingly impossible task, the plebes demonstrate the collaborative spirit essential for military success. The tradition reinforces that no naval officer succeeds alone – victory comes through teamwork and mutual support.

With the successful completion of the Herndon climb, the Class of 2027 has earned their place in Naval Academy history and taken their first major step toward joining the officer ranks of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. As with generations before them, these young men and women have proven they have what it takes to face challenges and overcome them – a skill that will serve them well throughout their military careers defending American interests around the globe.