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Why Army Week at the Naval Academy Becomes Pure Chaos Every December

Army Week has arrived at the Naval Academy, and if you've ever wondered what all the chaos and excitement is about, this episode pulls back the curtain on one of the most legendary weeks in Annapolis.

As someone who lived through the absolute mayhem of Army Week during my time as a midshipman, I'm sharing the inside story of what makes this week so special - and so completely wild. From the tactical pranks in King Hall to the elaborate spirit missions across the Yard, Army Week represents a unique tradition that has evolved significantly over the years.

What Makes Army Week So Legendary

• The historical context behind the week leading up to the Army-Navy game
• How Army Week differs from Air Force Week and why this rivalry runs deeper
• The three main areas where Army Week chaos unfolds: King Hall, Bancroft Hall, and the Yard
• Why this week has always been a time for creative midshipman expression

Army Week Then vs. Now

I'll walk you through some of the most memorable traditions from my era, including the infamous "Princess Leia" prank and the tactical escapes through King Hall. But I'm also addressing how things have changed - including the recent installation of security cameras throughout Bancroft Hall and updated standard operating procedures that govern what's allowed.

Stories You Won't Believe

• Epic chases through King Hall during meal times
• The strategic planning behind successful pranks and escape routes
• Creative spirit missions involving everything from alarm clocks to water balloons
• How plebes would get "carry on" privileges for the week

Modern Army Week Evolution

While some of the more destructive traditions have been phased out for safety and appropriateness, midshipmen continue finding creative ways t

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The mission of Academy Insider is to guide, serve, and support Midshipmen, future Midshipmen, and their families.

Grant Vermeer your host is the person who started it all. He is the founder of Academy Insider and the host of The Academy Insider podcast. He was a recruited athlete which brought him to Annapolis where he was a four year member of the varsity basketball team. He was a cyber operations major and commissioned into the Cryptologic Warfare Community. He was stationed at Fort Meade and supported the Subsurface Direct Support mission.

He separated from the Navy in 2023 and now owns The Vermeer Group, a residential real estate company that matches service academy families with trusted real estate teams all across the country. Text (650) 282-1964 with any real estate questions.

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