25 Facts About Army-Navy

The Historic Rivalry

The Army-Navy Game is one of the most storied rivalries in college football. This annual event brings together the United States Military Academy (Army) and the United States Naval Academy (Navy) for a showdown that transcends sports.

1. The first Army-Navy Game was played on November 29, 1890. Navy won that inaugural game 24-0.
2. The game has been played 122 times as of 2021, making it one of the oldest rivalries in college football.
3. The game was not played in 1909, 1917, 1918, and 1928 due to various reasons including World War I and disagreements between the academies.
4. The game is traditionally played on the second Saturday in December, a week after the conference championship games.

Unique Traditions

The Army-Navy Game is rich with traditions that make it unique among college football rivalries.

5. The "March On" is a pre-game tradition where the entire student bodies of both academies march onto the field in full dress uniform.
6. The singing of the alma maters is a post-game tradition where both teams stand together and sing each other's school song. The winning team sings second, a coveted honor.
7. The "Prisoner Exchange" is a tradition where cadets and midshipmen who have spent a semester at the rival academy are exchanged before the game.
8. The game ball is delivered by a skydiving team from the U.S. Army or Navy, adding an extra layer of excitement.

Memorable Moments

Over the years, the Army-Navy Game has produced some unforgettable moments.

9. In 1963, the game was played just weeks after President John F. Kennedy's assassination. The game was dedicated to his memory.
10. In 1944, both teams entered the game undefeated, a rare occurrence. Army won 23-7.
11. In 2001, the game was played just months after the September 11 attacks, making it a poignant and emotional event.
12. The 1963 game featured a last-second goal-line stand by Navy to preserve a 21-15 victory.

Famous Players

Many players from the Army-Navy Game have gone on to achieve great things both on and off the field.

13. Roger Staubach, a Navy quarterback, won the Heisman Trophy in 1963 and later became a Hall of Fame NFL quarterback.
14. Glenn Davis and Doc Blanchard, known as "Mr. Inside" and "Mr. Outside," were Army's dynamic duo in the 1940s. Both won the Heisman Trophy.
15. Joe Bellino, another Navy player, won the Heisman Trophy in 1960.
16. Alejandro Villanueva, an Army graduate, went on to play in the NFL and serve as an Army Ranger.

Cultural Impact

The Army-Navy Game has left a lasting impact on American culture.

17. The game has been featured in numerous movies and TV shows, including "Forrest Gump" and "The West Wing."
18. The game is often attended by the President of the United States, making it a significant national event.
19. The game has its own trophy, the Secretary's Trophy, awarded to the winning academy.
20. The game has inspired numerous books and documentaries, highlighting its importance in American sports history.

Modern-Day Significance

Even in the modern era, the Army-Navy Game continues to be a significant event.

21. The game is broadcast nationally, drawing millions of viewers each year.
22. The game has been played in various iconic stadiums, including the Rose Bowl, Soldier Field, and Lincoln Financial Field.
23. The game often features special uniforms designed to honor different aspects of military history.
24. The game has a significant social media presence, with both academies engaging in friendly banter leading up to the game.
25. The game serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve in the military, adding a layer of respect and admiration to the rivalry.

The Legacy Lives On

The Army-Navy Game isn't just a football match; it's a celebration of tradition, honor, and fierce rivalry. Each year, this game brings together not just the teams, but also their families, friends, and fans from all over the country. The pageantry, the history, and the camaraderie make it a unique spectacle in American sports. Whether you're rooting for Army or Navy, the spirit of competition and respect is palpable. This game reminds us of the dedication and sacrifices made by those in uniform. So, next time you watch the Army-Navy Game, remember it's more than just a game. It's a testament to the enduring spirit of the military and the values they uphold. Here's to many more years of this storied rivalry, and may the best team win!