U.S. Military Academy

The United States Military Academy at West Point (also known as USMA, West Point, or Army) is a four-year coeducational federal service academy located at West Point, New York. Established in 1802, USMA is the oldest of the United States's five service academies. The military garrison at West Point was occupied in 1778 and played a key role in the Revolutionary War. The academy sits on scenic high ground overlooking the Hudson River, 50 miles (80 km) north of New York City. The entire central campus is a national landmark and home to scores of historic sites, buildings, and monuments. The majority of the campus's neogothic buildings are constructed from gray and black granite. The campus is a popular tourist destination complete with a large visitor center and the oldest museum in the United States Army.

 

Its football team was a national power in the early and mid 20th century, winning three national championships. Its alumni are collectively referred to as "The Long Gray Line" and its ranks include two Presidents of the United States, numerous famous generals, and seventy-four Medal of Honor recipients.

 

Since 1899, Army's mascot has officially been a mule because the animal symbolizes strength and perseverance.  The academy's football team was nicknamed "The Black Knights of the Hudson" due to the black color of its uniforms.  This nickname has since been officially shortened to "Black Knights".   U.S. sports media use "Army" as a synonym for the academy.