Which of the following characteristics does the Naval Academy NOT instill in its midshipmen?

The characteristic of individualism is not one that the Naval Academy seeks to instill in its midshipmen. Instead, the Academy focuses on fostering a sense of duty, honor, and loyalty—values that are essential in military service and teamwork.

Duty emphasizes the responsibility of midshipmen to uphold the standards and traditions of naval service, reinforcing the commitment to their roles both as students and as future officers. Honor reflects the ethical and moral principles that guide conduct in both personal and professional spheres, emphasizing integrity and trustworthiness. Loyalty is about dedication to the Navy, the country, and fellow service members, which is critical for building cohesive teams capable of functioning effectively in high-stakes environments.

While individualism promotes personal expression and independence, the values instilled at the Naval Academy underscore the importance of collective identity and service to the greater good. This focus on collective values helps ensure that midshipmen are prepared to lead and operate effectively as part of a team in the multifaceted environments they will encounter in their naval careers.