Congressman Don Davis Joins Bipartisan CODEL to U.S. Naval Academy
Washington, D.C. — Congressman Don Davis (NC-01), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, joined a bipartisan group of colleagues for a full-day Congressional Delegation visit to the United States Naval Academy, where they met with Academy leadership to discuss the future of military readiness, officer training, and the evolving needs of our armed forces. The group included Representatives Sarah Elfreth (MD-02), Jen Kiggans (VA-02), Wesley Bell (MO-01), and Nick LaLota (NY-01).
The CODEL included a meeting with the Superintendent, lunch at King Hall, opportunities for members to meet with midshipmen from their respective districts, and a tour of the campus focused on the Naval Academy’s infrastructure needs.
“Military readiness doesn’t begin on the battlefield, but in classrooms and on training grounds like those at the United States Naval Academy,” said Congressman Davis. “I was proud to spend time with outstanding midshipmen from eastern North Carolina who are carrying forward a powerful tradition of service, leadership, and discipline. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, they inspire me to keep fighting so our service academies have the resources they need to prepare the next generation of leaders who will defend our nation.”
“I’ve had the privilege of representing the Academy and our midshipmen since my time in the Maryland State Senate, and I am proud to represent them in the House of Representatives and as a member of the USNA Board of Visitors. It was incredibly special to bring my colleagues to Annapolis to see first-hand the world-class Naval Academy, tour their exceptional grounds, and meet their talented midshipmen,” said Congresswoman Elfreth. “Together, we brainstormed and identified ways we can support the Academy’s mission in Congress, which includes addressing the pressing renovation needs at the world’s largest dormitory, Bancroft Hall, as well as addressing the Academy’s infrastructure and flooding challenges.”
“From world-class academics to hands-on training and a deep commitment to service, the United States Naval Academy is shaping officers who will be ready to meet the challenges of an increasingly complex global security environment,” said Congressman Bell. “As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I’m proud to support the investments needed to ensure future midshipmen have the resources, facilities, and training required to keep our Navy strong.”
Congresswoman Kiggans said, “The United States Naval Academy represents the very best of our nation. As a Navy veteran and Naval Academy Mom, I know the role this prestigious institution serves in developing young men and women into leaders of character prepared to serve in our military. I appreciated the opportunity to meet with Academy leadership, tour campus facilities, and engage with midshipmen, including those from Virginia’s Second District. Seeing firsthand the education, training, and innovation taking place at USNA, especially in areas like cyber and infrastructure, reinforces the critical role the Academy plays in strengthening our national security. I look forward to continuing to support its mission and the next generation of military leaders.”
Officially established in 1845, the U.S. Naval Academy is one of five United States Service Academies. As the undergraduate college of the U.S. Naval Service, the Naval Academy prepares young men and women to become professional officers of competence, character, and compassion in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Naval Academy students are midshipmen on active duty in the U.S. Navy. Midshipmen attend the Academy for four years, graduating with bachelor of science degrees and commissions as ensigns in the Navy or second lieutenants in the Marine Corps. Naval Academy graduates serve at least five years in the Navy or Marine Corps.