Annapolis

Jake Huard, born into a family of shipbuilders, promised his dying mother that he would gain admission to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis. Through persistent efforts to persuade a Congressman, he secured a spot despite having questionable academic credentials. Once enrolled, however, Jake struggled to meet the academic demands of the academy. Frequently tested to his limits, he became a recurring source of frustration for the entire class due to his perceived overconfidence. At one point, he nearly quit, but after facing the unsupportive and gloating attitude of his father, he returned just in time. With the encouragement of his fellow midshipmen and Senor Ali, who would later become his lover, Jake discovered a potential strength in the academy's "brigade" boxing tournament, an event open to all ranks.