[Tom Edgerton]

Claudemir, Julie, Ilaria--

Thanks so much...your comments will keep my energy up here in the studio!

I am pleased that everyone here seems to get that there is a relationship between the Admiral and the midshipmen. We looked at other concepts, including some ceremonial parade ideas, but it says something about him that he ultimately let me place him in their space, not his. He was instrumental in re-including them in high-profile events and ceremonies at the Academy, and for re-energizing the midshipman sailing (under canvas) program.

We met at the Academy in October to do finish work from life, and the next day I attended a Navy football game. When the thousands of midshipmen (standing together in uniform for the entire game) realized that the newly retired Admiral was there in civilian dress, they began to spontaneously chant his name!