Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium

Opened in 1959, Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium stands as a testament to the unwavering spirit of the Navy and Marine Corps. It has witnessed countless moments of triumph and camaraderie. Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium is more than just a stadium. It is a living memorial, dedicated to the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our nation. Thousands of memorial plaques adorn the bench backs and walls, each one a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made. The stadium’s inaugural game was a resounding 29-2 victory against William & Mary on September 26, 1959. Today, Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium boasts a seating capacity of 34,000. This impressive venue is home to the Navy Midshipmen football and lacrosse teams. It also served as the home of the Chesapeake Bayhawks of Major League Lacrosse. The stadium has hosted other events like the Military Bowl, soccer matches during the 1984 Summer Olympics, and even a 2018 NHL Stadium Series hockey game between the Washington Capitals and Toronto Maple Leafs. The stadium also holds the attendance record of 38,803, set during a nail-biting game against Air Force in 2023. Before 1959, Navy’s home games were played at the much smaller Thompson Stadium, which held a mere 12,000 spectators. Interestingly, the site of the old Thompson Stadium is now occupied by Lejeune Hall. For 46 years, the playing field at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium was natural grass. In 2005, it was replaced with FieldTurf. This state-of-the-art synthetic surface provides a consistent playing experience for the athletes. The field itself is named “Jack Stephens Field,” in honor of Jackson T. Stephens, a 1947 Naval Academy graduate whose generous donation made significant renovations possible. Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium is more than just bricks and mortar. It is a place where history comes alive, where memories are made, and where the spirit of the Navy and Marine Corps is celebrated.