A Cadence of Hope

Twenty-three days down. Seventy-seven to go. Memory 24/100:

We had many cadences during Plebe Summer. This was one of my favorites because it gave me something to look forward to each year: taking naps youngster year, getting my ring second-class year, and driving on the Yard as a firstie.

“Admiral Rempt was a jolly ol’ Supe,

and a jolly ol’ Supe was he!

He called for his pipe and he called for his sword,

He called for his firsties three.

Rates, rates, rates for the plebers,

Racks, racks, racks for the youngsters,

Rings, rings, rings for the second-class,

Cars, cars, cars for the firsties,

Merry ol’ men are we!

West Point’s fair but it can’t compare,

to the Naval Academy!”