United States Naval Reserve Midshipmen's School

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United States Naval Reserve Midshipmen's School was a series of United States Navy training programs established during both World War I and World War II to provide accelerated officer training. These programs were designed to meet the urgent need for officers to serve in the expanding Navy. The schools were part of the larger effort to mobilize and expand the naval forces of the United States in response to the demands of global warfare.

History

The first iteration of the United States Naval Reserve Midshipmen's School was established during World War I, but it was during World War II that the program significantly expanded. With the outbreak of World War II and the subsequent expansion of the U.S. Navy, there was an immediate and pressing need for trained officers. The Naval Reserve Midshipmen's School was reactivated to address this need, offering a path for college graduates and students to become commissioned officers in the Naval Reserve.

Training Program

The training program at the United States Naval Reserve Midshipmen's School was intensive, typically lasting about four months. Candidates, often referred to as "90-day wonders" due to the accelerated nature of their training, were instructed in a variety of naval subjects, including navigation, seamanship, naval history, and gunnery. The curriculum was designed to provide a comprehensive foundation in naval leadership and tactics, preparing the midshipmen for active duty at sea or in support roles.

Locations

During World War II, several campuses across the United States hosted the Naval Reserve Midshipmen's School. Notable locations included Northwestern University in Illinois, the University of Notre Dame in Indiana, and Columbia University in New York. Each location was chosen for its facilities and capacity to accommodate the large number of candidates undergoing training.

Impact

The United States Naval Reserve Midshipmen's School played a crucial role in preparing officers for service during a time of unprecedented global conflict. Graduates of the program went on to serve in various capacities across the Navy, contributing significantly to the war effort. The program not only helped to meet the immediate needs of the Navy but also left a lasting legacy in terms of naval training and officer development.

Demobilization and Legacy

With the end of World War II, the demand for naval officers decreased, leading to the demobilization of the Naval Reserve Midshipmen's School. However, the legacy of the program continued in the form of the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) and other naval officer training initiatives that followed. The schools had demonstrated the effectiveness of accelerated officer training programs and set a precedent for future naval education.

See Also

• United States Navy
• Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC)
• World War I
• World War II
• Officer Candidate School (United States Navy)