Cadets on the TS State of Maine give the Gig'em thumbs up sign with the Manhattan skyline in the background.

Inaugural voyage of TS STATE OF MAINE offered a preview of TS LONE STAR STATE, which will be christened July 17 in Philadelphia.

TAMUG's TS Lone Star State with American flag superimposed

The Cadets are anchored in New York harbor for the largest gathering of ships in 50 years.

The prize, presented during TAMUG commencement on May 8, honors the graduate from the past year who best represents such values as leadership, courage, and humility.

Photo of Col. Michael E. Fossum accepting the award in Washington D.C., while standing next to members of the Association for Rescue at Sea.

The award recognizes the students who saved three people stranded aboard a disabled vessel for 15 days while underscoring the academy’s mission to develop maritime professionals committed to service.

From historic campus milestones, former student highlights and groundbreaking faculty research, here are the stories and moments that made Aggieland by the Sea great this year.

Isaiah Castillo ’26 shares his motivation to be a mariner.

MARAD took possession of the ship on September 16 as the academy prepares to usher in a new era.

Rucker smiling with the campus in the background

August Grad Makes History

Aug 5, 2025 • 4 min. read

Jonathan Rucker is the first graduate student to receive the Student Incentive Payment through the Strategic Sealift Midshipman Program.

TS Kennedy in the Galveston Ship Channel

These student leaders are ready to set sail.