On September 2, 2025, 32 members and guests of the West Point Society of Annapolis (WPSOA), including four members of the Class of 1977 (50-year Affiliation Class), conducted an Affirmation Dinner and Ceremony for the eight exchange cadets from the Class of 2027. The exchange cadets are at the Naval Academy for the fall semester.

The ceremony took place in Annapolis. WPSOA President Steve Heinecke (’77) began the ceremony by explaining the role the WPSOA has in administering the oath to the exchange cadets over the years. Steve then introduced John Taflan ’77, who addressed the exchange cadets on the significance of the Oath of Affirmation and why they should commit themselves to it for the rest of their lives. Mr. Taflan also encouraged the cadets to adhere to their class motto, “Earned Not Given,” as their careers advance. By doing so, they would be better prepared to face the challenges that lie ahead, be they during their military careers or afterwards during their civilian careers. Mr. Taflan then administered the Oath of Affirmation to the exchange cadets, which was followed by members of the Class of 1977 congratulating the cadets and presenting them with their Commemorative Affiliation Coins. The society members and guests then congratulated the cadets and wished them well as the evening came to a close.

The photo shows the eight exchange cadets and the four affiliation class members following their Affirmation Ceremony. From left to right, Steve Heinecke ’77, John Holbert ’77, Cadets Grant Creedican, Landry Lee, Noah Keith, Paige Barta, Edward Joo, Claire Schleck, Joey Shi and Gus Hankinson, Tom Watson ’77 and John Taflan ’77.

The primary mission of the West Point Society of Annapolis is to support the exchange cadets during their fall semester at the U.S. Naval Academy, as well as other cadets traveling through the Annapolis area or visiting for club or athletic competition. In so doing, the WPSOA strives to serve West Point in Annapolis and Maryland by developing and sustaining programs that promote West Point, support graduates and cadets and reflect the values of West Point in Annapolis and the communities throughout Maryland.