Texas A&M Maritime Academy

Legacy Afloat, Honor Afoot

LCDR Claude E. Davidson

On November 11^th, Texas A&M University at Galveston cadets will make history as they fly to New York to march in the Veterans Day Parade, paying tribute to their late Lieutenant Commander Claude E. Davidson.  The trip is funded by the George P. Mitchell Society, in recognition of Davidson’s 14 years of service to the Texas A&M Maritime Academy.

The appearance at the Veterans Day parade marks the debut of the Claude E. Davidson Memorial Scholarship, a five-year, $50,000 fundraising initiative that awards cadets with annual scholarships. “I knew Lieutenant Commander Davidson professionally,” said Texas A&M University at Galveston Vice President, Rear Admiral Michael E. Fossum. “When the students came to me with this idea to honor him, I immediately knew it was something the campus should get behind. Claude would hold our cadets accountable for their actions to help them to grow as professionals, but he always did so with respect and love, and we all respected and loved him in return. Our hearts are gladdened to know this scholarship with preserve his memory forever.”

After 22 years of Army service, Davidson joined Texas A&M Univeristy at Galveston in 2011, embodying Aggie core values and mentoring many cadets through his tenure. His motto— If your life is based on principles, 99% of your decisions have already been made— still guides those he taught, including Cadet Commander Melanthea Ussery, who now leads the drill team he once encouraged her to join.

The parade holds special significance for Ussery. “He [Davidson] led me to the drill team,” said Ussery. “I didn’t believe in myself back then, but he did. He’s the one who convinced me to go for Drill Team Commanding Officer, and now I’m here.”

Another historical legacy will also be honored on Veterans Day: Texas A&M Maritime Academy cadets revived the Maritime Academy Band during Summer 2025, after a half-century hiatus. Led by Ussery and Cadet Lieutenant Jackson Janek, the drill team plans to debut before 400,000 onlookers.

In the days leading to their performance, the drill team rehearsed aboard the NSMV Empire State VII alongside the cadets of other maritime academies. The Empire State VII is the nation’s first National Security Multi-Mission Vessel (NSMV) and the sister ship to Texas A&M at Galveston’s own NSMV Lone Star State, set to arrive in Galveston in fall 2026.

Texas A&M Maritime Academy cadets march forward with purpose, carrying the torch of those who came before them and inspiring a new generation of mariners to lead with honor, courage, and commitment. “Reflecting on this Veterans Day, it’s a time for us to honor LCDR Davidson and all veterans as we thank them for their service.” said Fossum. “Please join us in proudly recognizing our cadets as they carry that gratitude into their march on Veteran Day, and beyond.”