The North Carolina All Academy Ball is an annual, formal military gala planned to honor and celebrate the nearly 300 North Carolina young men and women who currently attend one of the five United States Service Academies: The US Military Academy (West Point, NY), the US Naval Academy (Annapolis, MD), the US Air Force Academy (Colorado Springs, CO), the US Coast Guard Academy (New London, CT) and the US Merchant Marine Academy (Kings Point, NY). The Ball is held each December while cadets and midshipmen are on break from their academy and is coordinated by the parents clubs of West Point, Naval Academy and the Air Force Academy.
Guests arrive to enjoy some time socializing and having their photos taken by a professional photographer. When the formal portion of the evening begins, cadets and midshipmen March On and are introduced individually. Each Firstie (senior) of the class of cadets and midshipmen are recognized and given a gift in honor of their time at the academy. Glasses are charged and toasts honoring those who serve our country are made before dinner. Inspiration from the keynote speaker is meant to be the highlight of the evening for cadets and midshipmen. However seeing the dress coats come off, the big smiles and laughter while dancing with new-found friends, it is the fellowship that truly makes this event special!
