Tuesday, July 28, 2015

USNA Names Buchanan House Dining Room in Honor of Admiral Charles Larson

The Naval Academy named the dining room of Buchanan House, the Superintendent's home, in honor of Admiral Charles Larson during a dedication ceremony July 27.

With members of Admiral Larson's family looking on - including children and grandchildren - his wife Sally Larson cut the ribbon along with USNA Superintendent Vice Adm. Ted Carter.

Photo by Gin Kai

Admiral Larson, who passed away July 26, 2014, was among the most accomplished and influential superintendents in the 169-year history of the Naval Academy, serving in the position twice: from 1983-1986, and again from 1994-1998.

His accomplishments were numerous, including the establishment of the framework with the Naval Academy Alumni Association for USNA’s largest-to-date public/private funding venture which led to the construction of the Brigade Activities Center, now known as Alumni Hall.  He directed the Naval Academy’s 150-year anniversary celebration, and led the effort to build the Armel-Leftwich Visitor Center.

Photo by Mr. Gin Kai

Admiral Larson also recognized the need for, and enabled the eventual establishment of, what is now the Stockdale Center for Ethical Leadership.  Among his greatest initiatives was the establishment of the Naval Academy’s Character Development Division immediately upon returning to USNA for his second tour as superintendent.  His strong emphasis on providing character and honor instruction to the brigade was instrumental in leading USNA back from a challenging time in the Academy’s history, both restoring public confidence and repairing the Academy’s reputation and credibility.

At a ceremony in the fall, the Naval Academy will also rename the Administration Building “Larson Hall” in his honor.

2 comments:

  1. I am truly sorry to hear of ADM Larson's passing. I worked for him for two years, on his staff, when he was Commander, Second Fleet. I would fill in for his Flag Writer when he was on leave or liberty. ADM Larson was a true leader and led by example. He always liked to make sure I understood that. He was exceptional with the enlisted personnel and would often go down to the mess deck and have lunch with "the men". He always wanted to know what the crews thoughts were on things and felt the best way to find out was to talk to them directly. He would always stand in line and wait his turn for chow, in addition to eating what the crew ate. I always had the utmost respect and admiration of him for the way he conducted himself. I gave it my best to emulate him. He was, in my opinion, one of the best Admirals in the history of the Navy. I still, to this day, have a hand written letter from him, written in 1987, giving me words of encouragement when I was hospitalized for about three months due to an exposure I had. ADM Larson will always have a special place in my heart for the way he treated me. Fair winds and following seas, Shipmate!!!

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