The Evolution of Naval Officer Weapons: Why Graduates Don't Receive Cutlasses Anymore

There exists a common misconception that graduates of the United States Naval Academy (USNA) who become naval officers receive cutlasses upon graduation. However, this is far from the truth. Long-serving naval veterans, such as myself, can confidently attest that such a practice never occurred. In fact, in the current context, naval officers never received cutlasses as their personal property.

Historical Context and Current Practice

Navy officers always purchase their swords, which are a symbol of tradition and prestige. Marine officers, on the other hand, buy the traditional Mameluke sword, reminiscent of the Tripolitan War. Neither of these weapons is issued to officers at the time of graduation. It's a time-honored tradition that officers obtain these swords on their own, often as a reflection of their commitment to the service and their personal sense of duty.

At the USNA

At the United States Naval Academy, midshipmen are required to purchase a sword, similar to the one my father, a 1922 graduate, purchased in 1963. The swords have a rich history dating back to the Civil War and beyond, where naval officers were seen in photographs carrying swords. These swords are typically displayed at formal events and ceremonies but are not given as personal property.

Cutlasses in a Different Era

While the idea of receiving a cutlass upon graduation may sound romantic, it is not historically accurate. Cutlasses were once an essential part of a ship's complement and a standard issue for many sailors, especially during the age of sail. Cutlasses were kept in a ship's armory and readily available for quick use in combat.

Modern Era and Chief Petty Officers

Today, Chief Petty Officers (CPOs) in the Navy do occasionally possess cutlasses. However, these are not issued by the Navy but rather are personal belongings of the individual CPO. In some cases, they might be given as gifts upon retirement, reflecting a nostalgic nod to the ship's past.

Modern Uniform and Practicality

Given the practicality and cost of modern equipment, it's unlikely that the Navy would issue cutlasses to officers. The cost of a cutlass might be around $10,000, and the frequency of use is minimal compared to historical times. While it might be worn on parades, the likelihood of a naval officer needing a cutlass in a combat situation is virtually non-existent in the modern naval context.

Conclusion

In conclusion, naval academy graduates do not receive cutlasses. The practice we see today revolves around the tradition of sailors and officers purchasing their own swords and cutlasses as they see fit. These weapons hold significant historical and symbolic value but are not standard issue by the Navy. Understanding the evolution of naval weaponry helps us appreciate the unique traditions of our armed forces and the historical context in which they operate.

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