Trending
Victoria Jean Durand, daughter of Susan M. Mitchell of Cape Coral, recently graduated from the United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York. Durand earned a bachelor of science degree and a commission in the U.S. armed forces. She also earned a Merchant Marine officer license, qualifying her to serve as an officer on any ship in the U.S. flag merchant marine.
The United States Merchant Marine Academy is a federal service academy that educates and graduates licensed Merchant Marine officers. In addition to the rigorous academic and physical requirements for admission, applicants must be nominated by their congressman or senator. Durand was nominated by former Congressman Curt Clawson.
All USMMA graduates incur an obligation to serve the United States. The U.S. Flag Merchant Marine - manned exclusively by American mariners - is essential for securing the country's commerce in peacetime and delivering warfighters, weapons and military supplies in times of conflict. The majority of "Kings Pointers" serve for eight years as Navy reservists in the Strategic Sealift Officer Program while working aboard U.S. flag vessels; others will serve on active duty in our nation's armed forces.
By virtue of their elite training and real-world experience, graduates are ready to go on day one in service of American military strength and economic power. As part of her four year education, Durand spent one year training as a cadet aboard ocean going vessels.
Dedicated during World War II, USMMA has since served the nation in both peace and war. Learn more at www.WeAreTheUSMMA.com
For more information about the academy, visit https://www.usmma.edu/.