President Obama and a graduating midshipman share a celebratory chest bump at the graduation and commissioning ceremony for the U.S. Naval Academy Class of 2009.
The ceremony is the president's first service academy commencement.
Marvin Joseph-Washington Post
Ahead of the ceremony, members of the Class of 2009 file onto the field at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis.
Jonathan Newton-Washington Post
The Blue Angels flight squadron performs a fly over at the start of the ceremony to salute the commitment made by more than 1,000 graduates.
Jonathan Newton-Washington Post
Each graduate receives a Bachelor of Science degree and takes the oath of office as each is commissioned as an ensign in the Navy or a second lieutenant in the Marine Corps.
Graduate Andrew Neuwirth, center, celebrates his achievement.
Jonathan Newton-Washington Post
President Obama congratulates Thomas Tracy Upchurch during the graduating and commissioning ceremonies for the United States Naval Academy Class of 2009.
Marvin Joseph-Washington Post
Among the graduates crossing the stage and receiving a handshake from the president was John S. McCain IV, son of Sen. John McCain, who Obama defeated in the presidential election, and a fourth generation Naval Academy graduate.
Marvin Joseph-Washington Post
Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) and his wife Cindy watch from front-row seats.
The White House says the president did not recognize the senator in his speech out of respect for the family's wishes.
Marvin Joseph-Washington Post
"In an era when too few citizens answer the call to service -- to community or country -- these Americans chose to serve. And they did so in a time of war, knowing they might be called upon to make the ultimate sacrifice," Obama told the crowd.
Jonathan Newton-Washington Post
In his 20-minute speech, Obama noted the skill and power wielded by the military. He told the graduates that they would be needed to confront a wide array of enemies.
Jonathan Newton-Washington Post
Upon receiving his diploma, a graduate looks to the heavens.
Following his remarks, the president shook hands with every one of the 1,036 graduates as they received their diplomas.
Jonathan Newton-Washington Post
Ensign Nathaniel Isaac Backstrom of Butler, Pa., takes the oath of office, swearing to defend the country and the values enshrined in the Constitution.
Marvin Joseph-Washington Post
The president also noted the diversity of the graduating class, which is more than 20 percent minority and 20 percent female, and whose members come from "every state and every corner of the world."
Marvin Joseph-Washington Post
"America, look at these young men and women. Look at these sailors and Marines. Here are the values we cherish. Here are the ideals that endure," President Obama says.
Jonathan Newton-Washington Post
Gallery Credits:
Photo Editor: Megan Rossman
Text Editor: Kenisha Malcolm
