Naval Academy Freshmen Conquer Greased Herndon Monument in Annual Tradition

Class of 2027 completes the challenging climb, marking their transition to upperclassmen and continuing a ritual dating back to 1950.

The Herndon Monument Climb involves scaling a 21-foot obelisk covered in vegetable shortening.
The tradition signifies the end of the plebe year and the start of their journey as upperclassmen.
This year's climb was completed in 2 hours and 19 minutes, faster than last year's time.
The first person to place the upperclassman's hat is believed to become the first admiral of the class.
The event honors Commander William Lewis Herndon, who died in 1857.