Army Cadets Discuss "Behind Enemy Lines" At Naval Academy
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- It's Army vs. Navy! The annual tradition heads back to Baltimore this year, and the game will hold a special meaning for a group of Midshipmen and Cadets.
For the semester, some students have been studying at their rivals' school. On Saturday, they'll be reunited with their classmates.
Meghan McCorkell spoke with the Army exchange cadets about what it means to be part of history.
On the campus of the US Naval Academy, surrounded by those dressed in working blues, one uniform appears to be behind enemy lines.
"The town of Annapolis is a pretty awesome place," said one.
These Army cadets are part of a service exchange program doing a semester at the Naval Academy.
"I thought it would kind of make me more well-rounded as an officer," said Cadet Blake Bequette.
"We've come together as a military more than we ever have before and being here at the Naval Academy has really given me a good perspective on that," said Cadet Michael Auten.
Being selected for the exchange program is a prestigious honor. Only the top students are picked. Which is great---unless it's Army Navy week.
Outnumbered in Annapolis, the cadets are preparing to be the target of some serious pranks.
"They usually try to take all our uniforms and try to make us wear whatever their most outlandish, awful Navy outfit is," said Cadet Doug Snyder.
It all culminates Saturday in a tradition known as the "prisoner exchange," where the cadets will march onto the field to be exchanged for the midshipmen who are doing a semester at West Point.
Both sides usually find a way to send a message to their rivals.
"We have a few tricks up our sleeves. We'll put something on our backs," said Cadet Madison Hager. "Probably our hats, as well."
A moment and a semester these cadets will never forget.
"Three hundred and 64 days we'll be united and Army/Navy day, fortunately we'll be rooting for our own team," said Cadet Sean Monsees.
The reunion with their classmates will be short-lived. Right after the game, the cadet will head right back to the Naval Academy.
You can watch the game on WJZ.
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