United States Merchant Marine Academy 2022 Graduation
Ensign Liam Pickett USN with his justly proud parents, Marcie and Liam.
Liam Jacob graduated magna cum laude with a B.S. in Marine Engineering Systems. He also received an award for having the highest GPA in physics and chemistry courses. As a regimental commander, he worked closely with the Academy Superintendent, Vice Admiral Jack Buono and the leadership of the Maritime Administration in the Department of Transportation. While the COVID pandemic wreaked havoc in all American schools, it was particularly difficult for the Merchant Marine Academy. Because of its unique hands-on approach to developing mariners and creating a culture of military bearing, it suffered from the impact of remote learning and the restriction of sea borne experiences. As things began to return to normal last fall, it was not simply a matter of flipping a switch. The hiatus of normal programs and delivery methods required innovative and focused initiatives. Liam provided key leadership.
As if that weren't enough, the Academy had to deal with sexual abuse issues, not among the midshipmen but during the routine deployment on merchant vessels. Again, in his role as Regimental Commander, Liam worked with Academy and Maritime Administration to confront the issues and create changes in policies and procedures to address the concerns. We were all proud when the Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg recognized Liam by name in his Keynote Address to the graduates.
Liam is headed to the Naval Nuclear Power School in Charleston SC. After a six month classroom course, he will spend another six months at the Nuclear Power Training Unit simulating nuclear operations on a prototype reactor. After that, he will be assigned to a nuclear sub. On the Navy website, I found a description of the role and duties of a nuclear officer to be quite impressive. "The intricate machinery aboard a nuclear-powered submarine is complex—but managing the intricacies between the people demands just as much expertise. Submarine Officers hold leadership roles in every department on a submarine. Whether you are managing the nuclear reactor plant aboard or driving the vessel through the depths of the sea, you’re always leading by example. Every decision is a reflection of your judgement, so you must have the courage to trust it. Ultimately, it is your job to manage your team and help keep your missions on track."
The day before commencement we attended an Awards where Liam received his award for the highest GPA in physics and chemistry and was also honored as one of the two Regimental Commanders this year. After that we spent time on campus with him including the waterfront. That night Liam and Marcie hosted us at a local neighborhood bar and grill, Filmore's, in Queens. Click here to view the Google Photo Album of that day.
While Friday had been uncomfortably hot, Saturday was clear, temperate although windy. The graduation was full of pageantry, traditions, and speeches. It was held in the Academy's football stadium. It ended with the traditional tossing of covers in the air. You can view photos by clicking here to go to the Good Photo Album.
You can also watch a twenty minute video of the graduation below.
Liam Jacob graduated magna cum laude with a B.S. in Marine Engineering Systems. He also received an award for having the highest GPA in physics and chemistry courses. As a regimental commander, he worked closely with the Academy Superintendent, Vice Admiral Jack Buono and the leadership of the Maritime Administration in the Department of Transportation. While the COVID pandemic wreaked havoc in all American schools, it was particularly difficult for the Merchant Marine Academy. Because of its unique hands-on approach to developing mariners and creating a culture of military bearing, it suffered from the impact of remote learning and the restriction of sea borne experiences. As things began to return to normal last fall, it was not simply a matter of flipping a switch. The hiatus of normal programs and delivery methods required innovative and focused initiatives. Liam provided key leadership.
As if that weren't enough, the Academy had to deal with sexual abuse issues, not among the midshipmen but during the routine deployment on merchant vessels. Again, in his role as Regimental Commander, Liam worked with Academy and Maritime Administration to confront the issues and create changes in policies and procedures to address the concerns. We were all proud when the Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg recognized Liam by name in his Keynote Address to the graduates.
The day before commencement we attended an Awards where Liam received his award for the highest GPA in physics and chemistry and was also honored as one of the two Regimental Commanders this year. After that we spent time on campus with him including the waterfront. That night Liam and Marcie hosted us at a local neighborhood bar and grill, Filmore's, in Queens. 
While Friday had been uncomfortably hot, Saturday was clear, temperate although windy. The graduation was full of pageantry, traditions, and speeches. It was held in the Academy's football stadium. It ended with the traditional tossing of covers in the air. 
