### A Proud Moment for the Midshipmen: President Trump Presents Commander-in-Chief Trophy and Champions ‘America’s Game’ with Historic Executive Order
**WASHINGTON, D.C.** — The halls of the White House radiated with patriotism this past Friday as President Donald J. Trump welcomed the U.S. Naval Academy’s Midshipmen to celebrate their hard-fought victory in the 126th installment of “America’s Game.”
The ceremony served as a formal presentation of the coveted Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy, a symbol of excellence in the round-robin rivalry between the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, and the U.S. Air Force Academy. Navy secured the trophy following their decisive victory over the Army Black Knights on December 13, 2025, having already bested the Air Force earlier in the season.
President Trump, who has made attending the historic rivalry a tradition throughout his political career—having been present as President-Elect in 2016 and 2024, and multiple times during his first term—greeted the players with characteristic warmth. The crowd’s reception of the President at the game mirrored the enthusiastic support he has received from military personnel throughout his presidency, underscoring the deep bond between the Commander-in-Chief and the nation’s service academies.
“They’re really amazing,” President Trump said while addressing the players and coaching staff in the East Room. “For the second year in a row, it’s my great honor to officially present the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy to the one and only Navy Midshipmen football team.”
Acknowledging the grueling nature of the season, the President praised the squad’s performance, noting their impressive record of 11 wins against only 2 losses. He reflected on the evolution of service academy football, noting that the level of competition has reached new heights.
“I used to always think of the military services, they played like a little step below,” Trump remarked. “It’s not true. They play the big teams, and they beat them.”
The ceremony highlighted the discipline, grit, and spirit that define the Midshipmen—traits that the President has frequently touted as the bedrock of American strength. Beyond the gridiron success, the event served as a celebration of the commitment these young men have made to defending the nation.
As the team held the trophy high, the atmosphere was one of national pride and unity. For the Midshipmen, the visit to the White House was the culmination of a championship season, but for the President, it was another opportunity to affirm his unwavering support for those who serve in the United States military.
