The Alumni Office had a near phone system meltdown! I can tell you, after contacting the “right people” (very right people) at the Academy, that the Officers, Alumni, active duty sailors and Marine and retired Navy everywhere are VERY, VERY ANGERY!
When I graduated in 1990 we didn’t wear swords. I think it is common practice for the graduating class to not wear swords. Can’t remember if the officials on the reviewing stand were wearing them or not.
Graduation would be an incredible time and place to stage a coup!!! Make for some great Hollywood, too! (not that I care much for Hollywood, but, you get the idea!)