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SITREP Speaker Series

The SITREP Speaker Series

The SITREP Speaker Series is an online program that provides opportunities for senior Naval leaders to update and engage Americans across the country and abroad about ongoing Navy efforts and operations.

Modeled after US Navy SITREPs – routine communications that give a quick understanding of the current situation – these events offer insight into Navy activities. Check out archived speakers or sign up for upcoming events.


 

USNI Essay Contest

1. The Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) announces the 2025 CNO Naval History Essay Contest, commemorating the U.S. Navy's 250th anniversary and highlighting America's Warfighting Navy's contributions to our great nation and our 250 years of independence. On 13 Oct 25, we mark our Navy's 250th birthday and 04 Jul 26, will mark our Nation's 250th birthday. We invite participants to submit their essays no later than 30 Apr 25. This contest is an excellent opportunity to engage in the rich legacy of naval history.

2. The Naval History and Heritage Command (NHHC) is the lead for the contest. The United States Naval Institute (USNI) supports it.

3. The CNO invites essay submissions that draw on insights from naval history to address the serious challenges confronting today's Navy.

a. In a globalized world in which 90 percent of international trade by volume and a significant proportion of global communications rely on the seas and undersea cables, the importance of navies, sea control, and strategic partnerships with allies and partners has increased, underscoring the critical role of maritime power in maintaining global economic stability and security.

b. The U.S. Navy faces a major transformation fueled by a shifting strategic environment and technological advancements. Over the course of our and our Nation's 250 years, there are rich examples of shifting strategic environment and technological advancements that can inform and enlighten our current thinking and discussions.

4. Areas of Historic Interest:

a. Historic Approaches in Countering Disruptions to the Rule of Law in the Maritime Domain. Current Day Context: Potential adversaries' increasing opposition to the rules-based global order poses a serious threat to the security and prosperity that benefit all who rely on the global stability afforded by these rules.

b. Historic Approaches in Addressing Change in Maritime Philosophies, Techniques, and Capabilities. Current Day Context: The rapid growth of uncrewed systems and artificial intelligence (AI) advancements are revolutionizing autonomous naval operations and decision-making processes, impacting all aspects of planning and warfare, from force structure to combat strategy.

c. Historic Approaches in Addressing Maritime Competition. Current Day Context: From seabed to space, in cyberspace, and in the information environment, the Navy delivers power for peace. China's emergence as an important economic and maritime competitor underscores the need for the United States to develop integrated, multi-domain operational concepts and capabilities that leverage the unique strengths of our maritime services (the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine), industrial base, and the complete Joint warfighting ecosystem.

d. Historic Approaches of America as a Maritime Nation. Current Day Context: For 250 years, America's Warfighting Navy has Deterred aggression, defended our national security interests, and Preserved our way of life. Since before our nation's inception, America's Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom. How has the Navy's ability to control the sea and project power kept conflict far from our shores?

e. Historic Approaches of the American Sailor leaving their mark on our Navy and Nation's 250 years. Current Day Context: America's Warfighting Navy operates the world's most sophisticated weapons systems, how have our Sailors and Civilians given us an unmatched strategic advantage over the last 250 years?

5. CNO Intent:

a. Navigation Plan 2024 and her philosophy of America's Warfighting Navy of Warfighters, Warfighting, and the Foundation that support them emphasizes that strategic agility stems from proactive and practical thinking and that there is no time to waste. This essay contest aims to harness the collective expertise and intellectual engagement of the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine, as well as cadets and midshipmen.

b. The goal of the contest is to examine and reflect on historic approaches to similar conditions and stimulate discussion and insights on achieving and maintaining maritime superiority in the context of renewed great power competition and how our 250th birthday is a unique, once-in-a-generation opportunity to demonstrate the importance of the U.S. Navy and the exceptional contributions of our active and reserve Sailors, and Navy civilians.

6. Eligibility. Essays are accepted from entrants qualified in the Professional Category, the Rising Category, or the Midshipmen and Cadets Category.

a. Professional Historian Category:

(1) Historians, professors, history curators, archivists, and persons with history-related doctoral degrees;

(2) Authors of books on naval history (not including self-published works); or

(3) Civilians who have published articles in an established historical or naval journal or magazine.

b. Rising Historian Category: Those that do not fall in the Professional Category and are either:

(1) Active duty, reservists, veterans, and federal civilian personnel of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine; or

(2) Members of foreign militaries that have orders and are serving in an official billet in one of the above services.

c. Midshipmen and Cadets Category:

(1) Students enrolled at the United States Naval Academy, United States Coast Guard Academy, United States Merchant Marine Academy, and the State Maritime Academies or

(2) Students enrolled in an official Naval ROTC Program.

7. Submission Requirements:

a. Deadline: 2359 Eastern Standard Time, on 30 Apr 25.

b. Citations: All entries must include numbered footnotes or endnotes; a bibliographic list is not a substitute.

c. Word Count: Please adhere to the following limits: 3,500 words for the Professional Category and 3,000 words for the Rising and Midshipmen/Cadets categories.

d. Co-authoring: Essays in the Rising Historian category may be co-authored, with both authors meeting the Rising Category qualifications.

e. Original Work: Submit original essays that have not been published, are not under consideration elsewhere, and have not been previously submitted to the CNO Naval History Essay Contest.

f. Multiple Submissions: Entrants may submit multiple essays, but only one winning essay will be selected per individual.

g. Entry Submission: Entrants must submit essays electronically as a Microsoft Word attachment using the appropriate link:

(1) Professional Historian Category, go to:
2025 CNO Naval History Essay Contest - Professional Historian | U.S. Naval Institute

(2) Rising Historian Category, go to:
2025 CNO Naval History Essay Contest - Rising Historian | U.S. Naval Institute

(3) Midshipmen and Cadets Category, go to:
https://www.usni.org/cnonhessaycontestmidn-cadet.

h. Eligibility confirmation: When completing the electronic form, ensure the short biography provides necessary details about the author and the author's eligibility for the contest.

i. Word Count: Include the word count (excluding footnotes, endnotes, and sources) on the essay's title page.

j. Essays will be judged anonymously; please do not include the author's name or any identifying information within the essay.

8. Essays will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

a. Relevance to the topic: leveraging naval history to address current challenges;

b. Clarity and readability;

c. Thoroughness of research;

d. Quality of insights derived from historical events; and

e. Originality and uniqueness of ideas presented.

9. All essays will be evaluated through a blind judging process:

a. A six-member panel will determine the winning, second-place, and third-place essays in the Rising Historian Category.

b. A separate six-member panel will select the winning and runner-up essays in both the Professional Historian Category and the Midshipmen and Cadets Category.

10. The winning authors will receive:

a. Invitational travel orders to the 2025 CNO Naval History Essay Awards Reception (to be determined) to meet the CNO and present papers.

b. Contest Awards Reception (to be determined) to meet the CNO and potentially present their papers.

c. Cash prizes (courtesy of USNI). Cash prizes for co-authors will be split equally:

(1) First Place - $5,000 (Professional and Rising Historians);

(2) First Place - $4,000 (Midshipmen and Cadets Category);

(3) Second Place - $2,500 (Professional and Rising Historians);

(4) Second Place - $2,000 (Midshipmen and Cadets);

(5) Third Place - $1,500 (Rising Historian Category); and

(6) Third Place - $1,000 (Midshipmen and Cadets Category).

d. Publication of the essays in the USNI's Proceedings magazine and Naval History periodicals (first-place essays) and on the NHHC website (all winning essays). Some non-winning essays may also be selected for publication. Submission of essays constitute consent for such publication.

e. Copper sheathing from the USS CONSTITUTION (provided by NHHC).

f. Recognition on the NHHC website.

g. A one-year USNI membership and a one-year subscription to USNI's Naval History Magazine (courtesy of USNI).

11. Responsibilities. The Director of NHHC shall:

a. Coordinate receipt, acknowledgment, and blind judging of submissions;

b. Nominate three senior staff members as judges, one for each category.

c. Coordinate with the staffs of the Offices of the Chief of Naval Operations (OPNAV), U.S. Naval Academy, Naval War College, Naval Postgraduate School, and USNI, each of which shall nominate two judges, one for each category;

d. Coordinate announcing the contest winners;

e. Coordinate the 2025 CNO Naval History Essay Contest Awards Reception with the USNI and invitational travel for the winning authors;

f. Coordinate NHHC website publication IAW paragraph 9.c. and dissemination to Navy leadership of winning and selected essays; and

g. Capture and forward lessons learned.

12. For more details about the contest:

a. Please visit: https://www.history.navy.mil/get-involved/essay-contest.html

b. For questions, please contact Mr. Steve A. Hill, NHHC, email: stephen.a.hill6.civ(AT)us.navy.mil.

c. For advice and guidance on writing essays, please email: essayquestions(AT)usni.org.
 


NROTC Awards Programs

NROTC Staff Awards

Military Staff

Professors of Naval Science (PNSs) may recommend military members of their staff for commendations in accordance with CNSTCINST 1650.1 series.

Civilians

PNSs may recommend civilian members or organizations of the university and local community that have worked closely with the Navy and the NROTC for commendations or citations. These should be in accordance with the provisions of the Department of the Navy Civilian Human Resources Manual (DON CHRM) Subchapter 451.1 "Awards" and DON Guide No. 452-02, "Guidance on Implementing Awards Programs" (September 2005).

PNS Commendations and Citations

PNSs may commend or cite deserving staff members, members of the university, and members of the civilian community. Such recognition shall be noted in the reports of fitness/performance evaluations of military staff members receiving commendations.

DoD ROTC and Educational Institution Partnership Excellence Award

This is a Department of Defense-level award recognizing the unit performance of Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) programs and the universities that support them.

Eligibility

NROTC units and partner universities are graded in three areas:

  • Performance criteria
  • University support
  • Other noteworthy achievements

All Military Department ROTC units and their associated host education institutions (HEIs) are eligible and encouraged to compete for this award.

Nomination Requirements

Nominations should cover the 12-month academic year (August 1 through July 31) and include:

Signed Nomination Memorandum

A signed memorandum from the NROTC unit and HEI concerned.

Nominee Basic Information

  • Full official names of the ROTC Unit nominee and HEI nominee.
  • Full names of the ROTC Detachment Commander and HEI President.
  • U.S. Postal Service mailing addresses for the ROTC Detachment Commander and HEI President.
  • ROTC unit and HEI points of contact names, with e-mail addresses and phone numbers.
  • Congressional district and names of the Member of Congress representing the ROTC unit and HEI.

Nomination Narrative

Provide a comprehensive narrative that addresses the ROTC unit’s (formal name) and HEI’s (formal name) achievements based on:

  • Quality
  • Demography
  • Resources
  • Community involvement
  • University support for quality of life, unit morale, Esprit de Corps, facilities, and security

The one-page narrative must follow the format below:

  • Microsoft Word document
  • Page orientation: Portrait
  • Font: Times New Roman, 12-point
  • Margins: Left justified, 1-inch margins
  • Spacing: Single-spaced

Photographs

Submit approximately five high-quality digital photos for use in a ceremony slideshow, award posters, and possible Pentagon displays. Each photograph must meet the following criteria:

  • Only one image per photograph (no collages).
  • Should depict ROTC unit and HEI personnel that garnered the award nomination. Photos of buildings should include people.
  • Minimum resolution: 300 dots per inch (dpi).
  • Accepted formats: JPEG, PNG, PSD, or TIFF.
  • Not recommended: PDF, BMP, or GIF files as they do not provide clear images when enlarged.

Submission Deadline

Nominations must be received by 15 September each year at:

Naval Service Training Command
Attn: N934
320A Dewey Ave, Building 3, Room 106
Great Lakes, IL 60088-2911

USAA NROTC NCO Award for Excellence

Overview

The United Services Automobile Association (USAA) sponsors this annual competition to recognize an outstanding NROTC Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO).

Nature of the Award

There will be six (6) regional winners, each of whom will be awarded a Patriotic Medallion. One National Award Winner will be selected from among the six regional winners and will receive a plaque in recognition of their achievement.

Eligibility

This award is open to all NROTC Assistant Marine Officer Instructors (AMOIs).

Nomination Procedure

Professors of Naval Science (PNS) may nominate one AMOI annually. Nominations must be submitted no later than October 15th and forwarded to N93 (UNIT OPS).

The nomination letter should clearly articulate how the nominee has gone above and beyond in their duties and why they deserve to be named the “Best in the NROTC Program.” The justification portion of the nomination letter should be limited to one page.

Selection Procedure

A panel of N9 staff will review and screen the nominations before making recommendations to USAA. Notification of winners will be made to PNSs during the January NROTC Business Meeting.

NROTC Student Awards

Admiral James L. Holloway, Jr., Top Graduate Award

Overview

The Navy League has long recognized the value of the NROTC Program as a source of superbly trained officers. In recognition of the program’s importance and in alignment with the educational mission of the Navy League, the Navy League National Board of Directors has approved a series of national awards to honor excellence among NROTC midshipmen.

The Admiral James L. Holloway, Jr. Award was established to recognize the outstanding NROTC midshipman in the nation.

Selection

The recipient will be selected by N934 based on their overall class ranking.

Presentation

The award consists of:

  • A suitably engraved watch
  • A certificate

The award will be presented by a Navy League regional representative or a local dignitary during spring graduation.

Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA) Top Graduate Award

Overview

The AFCEA Educational Foundation honors the top graduating midshipman in Electrical Engineering or Communications Sciences.

Scholarship Application

The deadline for scholarship applications and all supporting documentation is February 20th. The scholarship application is available online at: AFCEA ROTC Scholarships .

Accepted Majors

The following majors will be accepted for the scholarship:

  • Biometry/Biometrics
  • Computer Engineering
  • Computer Forensics Science
  • Computer Programming
  • Computer Science
  • Computer Systems
  • Cybersecurity
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Electronics Engineering
  • Geospatial Science
  • Information Science
  • Information Technology
  • Information Resource Management
  • Intelligence
  • Mathematics
  • Network Engineering
  • Network Security
  • Operations Research
  • Physics
  • Robotics Engineering
  • Robotics Technology
  • Statistics
  • Strategic Intelligence
  • Telecommunications Engineering

ROTC Honor Award Certificate and Ribbon Bar

The AFCEA Educational Foundation also offers the ROTC Honor Award Certificate and Ribbon Bar to recognize ROTC students for excellence in leadership and academics. This award is presented to a student in their junior year and selected by the Professors of Military Science, Naval Science, and Aerospace Studies.

The Army, Navy/Marine Corps, and Air Force ROTC units at an institution may each submit one nomination online at: AFCEA ROTC Honor Award Nomination .

CNO Distinguished Midshipman Graduate Program

Overview

The CNO Distinguished Midshipman Graduate Program is an award program designed to honor one graduating midshipman (not officer candidates) at each NROTC Unit. For consortium units, one midshipman per university may be nominated.

Additionally, twenty midshipmen from the U.S. Naval Academy will be selected for this distinction. The award recognizes midshipmen who demonstrate the highest standards of leadership, academic excellence, and military performance.

Selection Criteria

Selection criteria for this program are detailed in OPNAVINST 1520.38.

Nomination Deadline

All nominations must be submitted to N934 no later than 31 January each year.

National Sojourners Award for Americanism

Overview

The National Sojourners is an organization composed of past and present commissioned and warrant officers who are master masons. The organization honors the outstanding NROTC student at each unit with the National Sojourners Award for Americanism. This award recognizes NROTC students who have encouraged and demonstrated Americanism within the unit and on campus.

The award consists of:

  • A ribbon with medal
  • An accompanying certificate

Criteria

To be eligible for the award, the nominee must meet the following criteria:

  • Sophomore or Junior status (concluding the second or third undergraduate year and corresponding naval science instruction).
  • Ranked in the top 25 percent of their academic class.
  • Has encouraged and demonstrated the ideals of Americanism by deed, conduct, or both.
  • Has demonstrated a potential for outstanding leadership.
  • Has not previously received the award.

Nomination Process

Nominations are due to the nearest local chapter of the National Sojourners. Nominations must be submitted during January and at least 90 days prior to presentation. Each NROTC unit may submit only one nomination per year.

In cases where a local chapter does not exist, nominations should be sent to:

National Sojourners, Inc.
8301 East Boulevard Drive
Alexandria, VA 22308-1399
Phone: (703) 765-5000
Fax: (703) 765-8390

Naval Submarine League (NSL) Outstanding Achievement Award

Overview

The Naval Submarine League (NSL) Outstanding Achievement Award is an annual award designed to promote the Navy’s nuclear submarine community. This award recognizes students with proven academic and leadership skills who have been selected for entry into the Navy’s nuclear propulsion program as submarine officers.

The award consists of:

  • A certificate
  • A letter of presentation
  • A one-year honorary membership in the NSL
  • Acknowledgment in The Submarine Review

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the award, the student must:

  • Be a scholarship senior or STA-21 Officer Candidate.
  • Demonstrate superior academic aptitude.
  • Exhibit a strong desire to pursue a career in submarine warfare.
  • Demonstrate balanced qualities and aptitude for ascension as a naval officer.
  • Be a role model who inspires others to strive for nuclear submarine program selection.

Nomination Process

Professors of Naval Science (PNS) may nominate one student per unit whose military and academic performance merits special recognition.

  • Nominations must be submitted to N91 (NUCLEAR PROGRAMS) by letter.
  • Nomination letters should include sufficient information to allow the NSL to personalize letters of recognition and presentation.
  • Letters should also provide a point of contact and phone number.
  • If an award presentation by an NSL member is desired, this should be specified in the letter.
  • If known, the date of the planned presentation ceremony should be included.

Submission Deadline

All nominations must be submitted to N91 (NUCLEAR PROGRAMS) no later than 01 February each year.

National Defense Transportation Award for NROTC Midshipmen

Overview

The National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA) annually presents a Silver Medal to one midshipman from each NROTC unit in recognition of outstanding academic and military performance.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for this award, the nominee must:

  • Be a graduating senior, Navy or Marine option, from either the NROTC Scholarship or College Program. Only one nominee is permitted from each unit.
  • Be enrolled in a degree program in Business Administration, Business Management, Transportation Management, or another baccalaureate program with an emphasis on the transportation field (e.g., Aviation Technology, Marine Transportation).
  • Rank in the top 25% of their NROTC class in aptitude.
  • Be in the top 25% of both their NROTC class and university class within their major field of study.

Nomination Procedure

Professors of Naval Science (PNS) should submit nominations to N931 no later than 01 February each year. The nomination letter must include:

  • Nominee's Full Name
  • Academic Major
  • Academic GPA and class standing within their major field of study
  • Expected Graduation Date

Award Presentation

N9 will send the list of nominees to NDTA, which will then provide each unit with a Silver Medal and a list of local NDTA officers who may be invited to participate in the medal award ceremonies.

PNSs are encouraged to arrange for publicity photographs of midshipmen receiving the NDTA medal. Copies of photographs should be forwarded to the following address for use by the NDTA:

National Defense Transportation Association
50 Street, Suite 220
Alexandria, VA 22304-3008

National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) Award

Overview

The National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) Award is presented annually to recognize outstanding midshipmen. The award consists of:

  • A certificate
  • A service medal
  • A ribbon to be worn on the midshipman uniform
  • A complimentary one-year membership to NDIA

Professors of Naval Science (PNS) may nominate one student per unit annually.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for this award, the nominee must:

  • Maintain an academic average that places them in the upper half of their university/college class.
  • Have no grade lower than a B (or numerical equivalent) in advanced NROTC courses.
  • Be evaluated in the upper 20% of NROTC enrollment at their university/college.
  • Actively participate in athletics and/or campus activities.
  • Demonstrate outstanding leadership qualities.

Nomination Process

Nominations must be submitted to NDIA no later than 15 February each year. Nominations should be sent to the following address:

National Defense Industrial Association
2111 Wilson Boulevard
Membership Department, Suite 400
Arlington, Virginia 22201
Phone: (703) 522-1820

American Society of Naval Engineers (ASNE) Scholarship Program

Overview

The American Society of Naval Engineers (ASNE) sponsors a scholarship program to encourage college students to enter the field of naval engineering. The program also provides support to naval engineers seeking advanced education in the field.

Description

The ASNE scholarship applies to various programs of study within the diverse field of naval engineering, including:

  • Naval Architecture
  • Marine Mechanical Engineering
  • Civil Engineering
  • Aeronautical Engineering
  • Ocean Engineering
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
  • Physical Sciences
  • Other programs leading to careers in naval engineering

Naval engineering includes the design, construction, and repair of ships and their installed systems and equipment, as well as research, logistics support, and the management of acquisition and maintenance.

Scholarship Award

  • A $2,000 annual scholarship, which may be periodically increased as funds allow.
  • A check for the first academic period is made payable to both the recipient and the college/university.
  • The recipient must forward the check to the college/university and provide a transcript showing satisfactory performance to the Scholarship Committee and ASNE before receiving the second installment.
  • If the recipient withdraws from the academic program and receives a tuition refund, ASNE will receive a proportionate share of the tuition award.
  • Each recipient will also receive an Honorary Student Membership in ASNE for the duration of the scholarship.
  • The award may be used for tuition, fees, and other educational expenses.

Eligibility Criteria

  • The scholarship is intended for students in the last year of a full-time co-op undergraduate program or one year of full-time graduate study leading to a designated engineering or physical science degree.
  • Scholarships will not be awarded to doctoral candidates or individuals who already hold an advanced degree.
  • The candidate must be a United States citizen.
  • The candidate must have demonstrated or expressed an interest in a career in naval engineering, such as through student membership in a professional engineering society or extracurricular engineering activities.
  • Selection will be based on:
    • Academic record
    • Work history
    • Professional promise and interest in naval engineering
    • Extracurricular activities
    • Recommendations from college faculty, employers, and character references
    • Financial need may also be considered

Application Process

Applications and supporting documents must be received by 15 February each year. To request an application, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to:

The American Society of Naval Engineers
1452 Duke Street
Alexandria, VA 22314-3458
Phone: (703) 836-6727
Fax: (703) 835-7491

Legion of Valor of the United States of America Award

Overview

The Legion of Valor of the United States of America is composed of recipients of the Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross, or Air Force Cross. The Legion of Valor Bronze Cross for Achievement is awarded annually to recognize scholastic excellence in military and academic subjects and to stimulate the development of leadership among NROTC midshipmen.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the award, the nominee must:

  • Be an NROTC midshipman completing their third undergraduate year and corresponding naval science instruction.
  • Rank in the top 25% of their class in aptitude and academic standing.
  • Have demonstrated outstanding military leadership qualities.

Nomination Process

  • One award is authorized for each of the six NROTC areas (refer to Section 1-4 for area definitions).
  • Nominations must be submitted to N934 no later than 15 June each year.
  • N9 will forward the list of candidates to the Legion of Valor for final selection.

Vice Admiral Robert F. Dunn NROTC History Essay Contest

Overview

The Naval Historical Foundation (NHF), founded in 1926, is a non-profit organization dedicated to naval history preservation, commemoration, and education. The Vice Admiral Robert F. Dunn NROTC History Essay Contest provides an opportunity for outstanding midshipmen scholarship to be recognized through the presentation of Cash Prizes and/or Achievement Certificates.

Eligibility

The contest is open to NROTC midshipmen who are students in good standing.

Nominations for Achievement Certificates

Instructors of Sea Power and Maritime Affairs courses may participate in the Dunn Prize recognition program by nominating midshipmen who demonstrated the most mastery of the subject matter. Nominations should be forwarded through the PNS.

  • If an NROTC unit or consortium hosts multiple Sea Power and Maritime Affairs courses, the PNS may forward multiple nominees to the NHF.
  • The certificates will ideally be awarded in the following Fall semester.
  • No deadline requirements exist for Achievement Certificates.
  • To nominate, the NROTC unit must submit the name of the Midshipman and the institution they are attending to:
    NHF Director of Programs, Dr. David F. Winkler (dwinkler@navyhistory.org).

Nominations for Cash Prizes

Instructors recognizing that NROTC midshipmen still incur financial costs while attending college may submit an outstanding term or essay paper for additional consideration for a cash prize. The nominated papers must be part of the course curriculum.

Submission Requirements

  • Term Paper entries must be submitted through the appropriate PNS or Commanding Officer of the respective NROTC Units.
  • Students at crosstown schools should be considered part of either the primary or consortium university.

Essay Format

  • Word Count: Minimum 500 words, maximum 5,000 words (excluding title page, notes, bibliography, etc.).
  • Submission Format:
    • A Contact Page including: paper title, author’s name, college/university, instructor’s name and contact information, and PNS contact information.
    • A Title Page with the paper title only (no name, rank, or college affiliation).
    • The main essay follows the Title Page.
    • Endnotes are preferred, but footnotes are acceptable.
    • The text must follow scholarly research paper guidelines, preferably using the Chicago Manual of Style or Turabian.
    • Submissions must be in electronic MS Word format, with limited formatting (italics, bold, underline, bullets, or numbered lists only).

Judging Criteria

Essays will be judged based on the following:

  • Innovation
  • Clarity of thought and purpose
  • Persuasiveness

Submission of Entries & Deadline

Each PNS must submit electronic copies of nominated essays directly to the Naval Historical Foundation, Attention Dunn Prize Coordinator, via email:
DWinkler@navyhistory.org.

Deadline for annual submissions: 30 June.

Notification of Winners

The NHF will complete the selection process by 30 August and notify NROTC PNSs after Labor Day.

American Legion ROTC Awards

Overview

The American Legion honors outstanding ROTC students through two awards:

  • The American Legion ROTC General Military Excellence Medal
  • The American Legion ROTC Scholarship Medal

General Military Excellence Medals

Eligibility

To be eligible for this medal, the applicant must:

  • Rank in the top 25% of their class in all NROTC subjects academically.
  • Demonstrate outstanding qualities in military leadership, discipline, character, and citizenship.

Nomination

The PNS may select four midshipmen or officer candidates, one from each Naval Science Year.

Scholarship Medals

Eligibility

  • Rank in the top 10% of university classes academically.
  • Rank in the top 25% of NROTC classes academically.
  • Demonstrate high qualities in military leadership.
  • Actively participate in constructive student activities such as student organizations or sports.

Nomination

The PNS may select four midshipmen or officer candidates for this medal. Award recipients will receive medals and ribbon bars based on their Naval Science Year:
  • Naval Science Year 3 and 4: Gold medal with a ribbon bar and a miniature scholastic scroll attachment.
  • Naval Science Year 2: Silver medal with ribbon bar.
  • Naval Science Year 1: Bronze medal with ribbon bar.

Nomination Process

Nominations are due to the local chapter of the American Legion no later than 15 April each year.

If no local chapter exists, the PNS should forward all nominations to:

Program Director
The American Legion
ATTN: Carol Polk
P.O. Box 547859
Orlando, FL 32854
Phone: 1-800-393-3378 ext. 222

Presentation

Upon receipt of the medals, the PNS shall invite a representative of the American Legion to present the awards. If a representative is unavailable, the PNS shall make the presentation and submit a report with photographs to the American Legion in Washington, D.C.

American Veteran (AMVETS) Award

Overview

The American Veteran (AMVETS) Award recognizes a qualified midshipman at each institution hosting a Senior ROTC program. The award consists of:

  • A medal pendant
  • A ribbon bar

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the award, the midshipman must demonstrate:

  • A positive attitude toward the Navy ROTC program and service in the Navy.
  • Exemplary personal appearance.
  • Strong personal attributes, including:
    • Initiative
    • Dependability
    • Judgment
    • Self-confidence
  • Demonstrated officer potential.
  • A grade of "A" or the numerical equivalent in Senior ROTC/military-related programs (including leadership lab).
  • Good standing in all scholastic grades during the most recent grading period.

Nomination Process

  • The PNS selects one recipient annually.
  • Nominations must be submitted to AMVETS no later than 15 April each year.
  • The nomination must include a brief biographical sketch of the midshipman.

Submission Address

Nominations should be sent to:

AMVETS National Headquarters
Attn: ROTC Programs Coordinator
4647 Forbes Blvd
Lanham, MD 20706

Presentation

An AMVETS representative should present the award. If a participating local post or department representative is unavailable, the PNS will make the presentation at an appropriate military ceremony.

USS Little Rock Association NROTC Scholarship Program

Overview

The USS Little Rock Association provides annual financial assistance to one or more deserving students who are selected from a competitive group of applicants meeting the eligibility requirements outlined below.

Scholarship Description

  • A $1,000 grant will be awarded to selected recipients entering their third academic year in any of the following commissioning programs:
    • NROTC Scholarship
    • NROTC College Program
    • Marine Enlisted Commissioning Education Program
    • Seaman to Admiral - 21 (STA-21)
  • A follow-on $1,000 grant will be awarded to previous recipients who successfully complete their third year and advance into the fourth academic year, subject to NROTC Unit Commanding Officer approval.
  • The number of annual awards varies based on candidate merit and the Association’s available financial resources.
  • The Association encourages applications from descendants of former and present USS Little Rock crew members.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Applicants must be:
    • Children or direct descendants of active, retired, or honorably discharged members of the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, or U.S. Coast Guard (including their Reserve components).
    • Current or former members of the Regular or Reserve sea services.
    • A USS LITTLE ROCK Association "Junior Associate" with at least two years of membership in good standing.
  • Applicants must demonstrate:
    • Superior leadership qualities and aptitude for naval service.
    • A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 in all accredited coursework.

Application Process

Qualified candidates must apply during their second academic year. The application must be submitted in letter format, addressing each eligibility criterion, and be endorsed by the Professor of Naval Science.

The letter should be approximately 500 words and include:

  • Details on leadership responsibilities and community involvement.
  • An explanation of why the candidate considers themselves worthy of the award.
  • A copy of the student’s academic transcript or an equivalent official record.

Submission Deadline

Applications must be received by 31 June and should be mailed to:

Scholarship Committee
c/o Donald Elliot
119 Motthaven Dr.
Crossville, TN 38558

Applications will be reviewed, and awardees will be selected by the Scholarship Committee no later than 15 October.

Award Presentation

  • Recipients will be notified by the USS LITTLE ROCK Association via the NROTC Unit Commanding Officer.
  • Award disbursement will occur as early as possible in the recipient’s third academic year.
  • The first-year award consists of:
    • A $1,000 check made out to the recipient.
    • A framed certificate.
  • When feasible, a representative of the USS LITTLE ROCK Association will present the award in person.
  • If a representative is unavailable, the award will be sent via the Commanding Officer of the NROTC unit for appropriate presentation.
  • The second-year award will also be a $1,000 check made out to the recipient and sent via the Commanding Officer.

Point of Contact

For any inquiries regarding the USS LITTLE ROCK Association NROTC Scholarship Program, contact:

CPO Donald H. Elliot, USN (Retired)
dhelliott3@comcast.net
Phone: (847) 721-6835

Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA) ROTC Scholarships

Overview

The Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA) offers multiple scholarships to support Navy ROTC midshipmen and officer candidates pursuing degrees in technical fields. One application is required for all scholarship categories.

AFCEA ROTC Scholarship

  • A minimum of eight scholarships of $2,000 each will be awarded annually.
  • Available to sophomore and junior Navy ROTC midshipmen and officer candidates.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Must be majoring in hard science and technical majors, including:
    • Engineering
    • Physics
    • Mathematics
    • Computer Science
    • Computer Technology
    • Fields related to U.S. intelligence or homeland security
  • No GPA requirement – Selection is based primarily on leadership and officer potential.

Nomination Deadline

Applications are due by February 15 of each year.

Medal of Honor Scholarship

Co-sponsored by the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation, this scholarship awards $5,000 annually to the top Navy midshipman and Marine Corps officer candidate submitted for an AFCEA ROTC scholarship.

Eligibility Criteria

  • A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required.
  • An additional letter of endorsement from the Commanding Officer must accompany the ROTC scholarship application.

Nomination Deadline

Applications are due by February 15 of each year.

Application

Apply online at: AFCEA ROTC Scholarship Application.

VADM Jon. L. Boyes Memorial Scholarship

Co-sponsored by AFCEA International, this scholarship awards $3,000 annually to one recipient.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Must be a Navy/Marine Corps ROTC midshipman or officer candidate.
  • Must be an Electrical Engineering major.
  • Selection is based on academic achievement – A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required.

Nomination Deadline

Applications are due by February 15 of each year.

Application

Apply online at: AFCEA ROTC Scholarship Application.

AFCEA Honor Certificate Award

The AFCEA Honor Certificate Award recognizes leadership and academic achievement in Navy ROTC.

Eligibility Criteria

  • One junior midshipman from every Navy ROTC unit is eligible to receive the award each year.

Nomination Process

  • Nominations are accepted on a rolling basis.
  • There is no deadline for submissions.

Application

Submit nominations via the online form: AFCEA ROTC Scholarship Portal.

United Services Automobile Association (USAA) Scholarship

Overview

The United Services Automobile Association (USAA) provides Naval ROTC scholarship funds totaling $21,000, allocated to 12 deserving midshipmen/officer candidates (8 Navy and 4 Marine Option).

  • One Navy Midshipman from each of the six NROTC Areas and one At-Large NROTC Midshipman will receive $1,500 awards.
  • Three At-Large Marine Option Midshipmen/Officer Candidates will also receive $1,500 awards.
  • One Navy Option and one Marine Option Midshipman/Officer Candidate will be named National Award winners and will receive awards of $3,000 each.
  • All scholarship winners will also receive an engraved brass clock as a permanent memento.

Eligibility Criteria (Navy Option)

  • Must be enrolled in the NROTC advanced course as either a Scholarship or College Program student and have at least one term remaining.
  • Rank in the upper 10% of their class in military aptitude.
  • Rank in the upper 10% of their class in naval science academics.
  • Major in a field of interest to the naval service and maintain a minimum GPA on a 4.0 scale.
  • Have a satisfactory rating on the most recent physical fitness test, be a second-class swimmer or better, and meet retention weight standards prescribed for active-duty personnel.
  • Be motivated toward a career in the unrestricted line.

Nomination Process (Navy Option)

  • PNS may nominate one student whose military and academic performance merits special recognition.
  • No eligibility criteria may be waived.
  • Nominations must be submitted to N934 in a letter format with the following enclosures:
    • Current academic transcript.
    • Copy of latest aptitude evaluation.
    • Full-length photo (3/4 view) of the nominee in Winter Blue or Summer White uniform (uncovered).
    • PNS comments.

Nomination Deadline

Nominations are due to N934 by 15 October each year.

N934 will compile all nominations sorted by geographical area and forward them to the Director, Member Relations and Military Affairs, USAA, San Antonio, TX for selection. USAA will contact the PNS and arrange for presentation after notifying N934 of the selected winners.

Eligibility Criteria (Marine Option)

The student must be one of the top NROTC graduates of an increment of the Marine Corps Officer Candidate Six-Week Course, as determined by the Commanding Officer, Officer Candidate School, Quantico, Virginia.

Nomination Process (Marine Option)

N934 will request the roster of OCS graduates for the first and second increment in rank order and forward it to the Director, Member Relations and Military Affairs, USAA, San Antonio, Texas.

Presentation

A USAA representative will present the awards to the respective PNS at the annual NROTC PNS Business Meeting.

Daedalian Foundation NROTC Scholarship Awards

Overview

The Order of Daedalians is a National Fraternity of commissioned military pilots of the Armed Forces. The Daedalian Foundation supports charitable, educational, and scientific activities in furtherance of its mission. The Foundation awards two $1,000 scholarships annually to senior NROTC midshipmen who aspire to become future naval aviators. The purpose of these scholarships is to encourage midshipmen to select military careers as fixed-wing pilots.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Nominee must have a strong desire to become a naval aviator, an aptitude for flight training with minimum ASTB scores of 4/6 (pilot) or 4/5 (NFO), and have passed a flight physical.
  • Must be in their fourth year of college (senior).
  • Rank in the upper 20% of NROTC classes and upper 25% of the entire graduating class.
  • Must have demonstrated qualities of leadership, teamwork, high moral character, integrity, and organizational ability.
  • Financial need should be considered in the selection process.
  • Enrollment in or completion of light aircraft training or possession of an FAA private pilot’s certificate should be considered in the selection process; however, this is not a firm requirement for eligibility.

Nomination Process

  • NROTC units shall submit nominations online at Daedalian Foundation Scholarships.
  • Nominations are due by 01 December each year.
  • Units shall use the nomination form available at Daedalians.org for required enclosures (medical information and a Daedalian sponsor are not required for NROTC).
  • Upon confirmation, NROTC units will be notified of scholarship awardees.

Award Presentation

A member of the Order of Daedalians nearest to the recipient’s school will present the scholarship at an appropriate ceremony. If a local member is not available, the Foundation will designate a presenter.

PNS are to contact the Daedalian Foundation to arrange a time and place for the presentation of the Daedalian certificate and the check, which will be issued in the recipient’s name.

Daedalian Foundation Contact Information

Daedalian Foundation
P.O. Box 249
Randolph AFB, Texas 78148-0249
Phone: (210) 945-2111

Follow-Up Information

The Order of the Daedalians requests that follow-up reports be sent no later than 01 September each year. Reports should include the following updates for each scholarship recipient:

  • Academic progress while still in school.
  • Graduation from college/university.
  • Commissioning in the Navy/Marine Corps.
  • Entry into active or reserve duty.
  • Acceptance into flight training.
  • Graduation from flight training and initial assignment.

Association of the United States Navy (AUSN) Patriot Award

Overview

In 2008, the Chief of Naval Operations announced the United States Navy Ethos, which captures the many dimensions of standards and service expected of all Navy personnel. The ethos emphasizes professionalism, leadership, and patriotism, rooted in the Navy’s core values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment.

The Association of the United States Navy (AUSN) established the Patriotism Award to recognize 2nd Class Midshipmen at the end of their junior year who most exemplify these core values.

Eligibility Criteria

The recipient of the AUSN Patriotism Award must demonstrate outstanding commitment to the core values of the Navy.

  • Honor: A Midshipman who has earned respect for the NROTC Unit and for themselves by respecting and supporting others.
  • Courage: A Midshipman who has demonstrated mental and moral strength to consistently practice the virtues of kindness, truthfulness, generosity, and honesty expected of a Naval Officer.
  • Commitment: A Midshipman whose actions reflect an understanding and appreciation of Navy ideals and who has expressed intent to continue Naval Service.

Selection Process

  • The Professor of Naval Science (PNS) for each NROTC Unit determines the award recipient.
  • The AUSN Patriotism Award, consisting of a certificate and medal set, will be automatically provided to each NROTC Unit annually by AUSN.

Nomination Deadline

Nominations must be submitted online by 15 April each year at: AUSN Patriot Awards.

Award Presentation Notification

Upon presentation of the award, AUSN requests notification with information about the recipient at the following address:

Association of the United States Navy (AUSN)
1619 King Street
Alexandria, VA 22314

LTG Samuel V. Wilson Writing Award

Overview

The Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC), Center for Counterterrorism Studies sponsors the LTG Samuel V. Wilson Writing Award to recognize the author of an original article that makes a significant impact on the study of counterterrorism.

Submission Requirements

  • Unclassified submission packets are due annually by 31 May.
  • Packets must be sent via email to center@jdi.socom.mil.
  • Incomplete packets will be discarded, and late packets will be held for the following year’s award consideration.

Submission Packet Contents

  • Research Paper: The author must submit an electronic copy (MS Word preferred) of an original work with a maximum length of 5,000 words (excluding bibliography and footnotes/endnotes).
  • The paper must adhere to an approved research style: APA, MLA, or Chicago.
  • Statement of Authentication and Authorization to Publish: The statement must include a printed name and signature of a witness. A template for this statement is available from N934.
  • Short Biography: A half-page autobiography focusing on the author's current position, field of study/work, and recent experience.

Contact Information

For any questions regarding the award, please contact:

Center for Counterterrorism Studies
Email: center@jdi.socom.mil
Phone: (910) 243-2144

Award Presentation

The Commanding General of the Joint Special Operations Command will present the award to the winner in October at an appropriate ceremony recommended by the Chairman, Center for Counterterrorism Studies.

Award Benefits

  • An engraved memento presented to the winner.
  • The author’s name will be displayed on a plaque in the JSOC Center for Counterterrorism Studies.
  • The winner will have the opportunity to present their research during a Center for Counterterrorism Studies professional development session, either in person or via video teleconference.
  • The Center for Counterterrorism Studies will annually circulate selected research manuscripts in a special publication.

Other Awards

Overview

Many organizations and veterans' groups provide awards for NROTC students. Arrangements for these awards are generally made directly between the organization or group and the Professor of Naval Science (PNS). Many of these awards are given at the national level, with the sponsoring organizations automatically providing them to NROTC units.

PNS should also remain alert for local organizations and groups that may be willing to provide awards upon solicitation.

Examples of Awarding Organizations

  • Chicago Tribune
  • General Society of the War of 1812
  • Marine Corps Association
  • Marine Corps Legion
  • Military Order of the Purple Heart
  • Military Order of the World Wars
  • Naval Reserve Officers Association
  • Navy Club of the United States
  • Navy League
  • Reserve Officers Association
  • Southern Nevada Chapter, The Military Officer Association of America
  • Veterans of Foreign Wars
 

Staff and Student Awards

Staff Awards

Award Due Date Cognizant Org
DoD ROTC and Educational Institution Partnership Excellence Award 15-Sep N5
USAA NROTC NCO Award for Excellence 15-Oct N93

Student Awards

Award Due Date Cognizant Org
CNO Distinguished Midshipman Graduate Program 31-Jan N931
National Sojourners Award for Americanism Jan Local Chapter or National Sojourners, Inc.
8301 East Boulevard Drive, Alexandria, VA 22308-1399
(703) 765-5000 FAX: (703) 765-8390
National Submarine League Outstanding Achievement 1-Feb N91
National Defense Transportation Award for NROTC Midshipmen 1-Feb N934
National Defense Industrial Association Award 15-Feb National Defense Industrial Assoc.
2111 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 400, Arlington, VA 22201
(703) 522-1820
American Society of Naval Engineers 15-Feb The American Society of Naval Engineers
1452 Duke Street
Alexandria, VA 22314-3458
Phone: (703) 836-6727
Fax: (703) 835-7491
AFCEA ROTC Scholarships 31-May AFCEA
https://www.afcea.org/rotc-scholarships
AFCEA ROTC Commissioning Awards 20-Feb AFCEA
https://www.afcea.org/military- academies-awards
American Legion ROTC Awards 15-Apr Local Chapter or Program Director
The American Legion, ATTN: Carol Polk
P.O. Box 547859, Orlando, FL 32854
1-800-393-3378 ext. 222
American Veteran Award 15-Apr AMVETS National Headquarters
Attn: ROTC Programs Coordinator
4647 Forbes, Lanham, MD 20706
Association of the United States Navy Patriot Award 15-Apr AUSN
https://www.ausn.org/patriot-awards
USS Little Rock Association NROTC Scholarship Program 31-May USS Little Rock Association Scholarship Committee,
c/o Donald Elliott, 12643 W. Paddock Ave., Beach Park, IL 60087
(847) 721-6835
Legion of Valor of the United States of America 15-Jun N934
LTG Samuel V Wilson Writing Award 31-May JSOC Center for Counterterrorism Studies:
center@jdi.socom.mil
Vice Admiral Robert F. Dunn NROTC History Essay Contest 30-Jun National Historic Foundation
DWinkler@navyhistory.org
Millington, TN 38054-5075
United Services Automobile Association (USAA) Scholarship 15-Oct N934
Daedalian Foundation NROTC Scholarship Awards 1-Dec N934
AFCEA Honor Certificate Award N/A AFCEA
https://www.afcea.org/rotc-awards

NROTC Unit/DNS Area Assignment

NORTHEAST NORTH CENTRAL
Boston ConsortiumChicago Consortium
CornellGreat Lakes Maritime
Holy CrossIllinois
Maine MaritimeIowa State
Massachusetts MaritimeMarquette
NorwichMiami
Penn StateMichigan
Philadelphia ConsortiumMinnesota
RochesterNotre Dame
RutgersOhio State
SUNY MaritimePurdue
USMMAWisconsin
Yale Consortium
SOUTHEAST SOUTH CENTRAL
Atlanta ConsortiumHouston Consortium
Auburn/Tuskegee ConsortiumKansas
CitadelMid-South Consortium
Embry-RiddleMissouri
FloridaNebraska
Florida A&MOklahoma
JacksonvilleSouthern A&M
Savannah StateTexas
South CarolinaTexas A&M
South FloridaTexas Maritime
Tulane
MID-EAST WESTERN
Carnegie MellonArizona
George WashingtonArizona State
Hampton ConsortiumUC Berkeley
Maryland ConsortiumCalifornia Maritime
Piedmont ConsortiumColorado
VanderbiltIdaho
Virginia
 
 
 

Naval Service Training Command, NS Great Lakes, 2601A Paul Jones St, Great Lakes, IL  60088-2845 ~ 1.800.NAV.ROTC 
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