Naval Academy Freshmen Complete Historic Herndon Monument Climb Led by Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s Son
A long-standing tradition at the U.S. Naval Academy reached another memorable moment on Wednesday as first-year midshipmen successfully completed the annual Herndon Monument climb, a physically demanding event that symbolizes the end of the freshmen year at the academy.
Among the students leading the effort this year was Lincoln Hedberg, the son of New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill. According to the U.S. Naval Academy, Hedberg guided the Class of 2029 during the famous climb, helping his classmates reach the top of the greased monument in Annapolis, Maryland.
The Herndon Monument climb is one of the academy’s best-known traditions. During the event, first-year students, known as “plebes,” work together to form a human pyramid around the monument. Their goal is to remove a white “dixie cup” cover placed at the top and replace it with an upperclassman’s hat. The challenge marks the completion of the plebe year, which is known for its strict training and discipline.
This year’s climb drew attention not only because of the tradition itself but also because Hedberg, whose mother currently serves as governor of New Jersey, played a leading role in helping the class complete the task. The Naval Academy confirmed that he led the effort to the top of the monument during the ceremony.
The event has long represented teamwork, endurance, and leadership among Naval Academy students. Plebes often spend months preparing mentally and physically for the demanding first year, and the monument climb serves as a symbolic transition into the next stage of academy life.
The Herndon Monument tradition remains one of the most recognized moments at the academy each year because it highlights cooperation and determination rather than individual achievement. Hundreds of students work together during the climb, often struggling through slippery conditions created by grease covering the monument.
Wednesday’s successful climb by the Class of 2029 added another chapter to the academy’s history while placing Lincoln Hedberg briefly in the national spotlight due to his connection to Gov. Mikie Sherrill and his visible leadership role during the event.
Sources
U.S. Naval Academy
State of New Jersey Governor’s Office
