The United States Naval Academy North Carolina Parents Club recently delivered a special show of support to North Carolina Midshipmen during one of the most demanding parts of their first academic year—known at the Naval Academy as the “Dark Ages.” Through the generosity of local businesses and dedicated parent volunteers, care packages were assembled and distributed to remind Midshipmen that their home state is cheering them on.
This year’s Dark Ages boxes were made possible in part by the generous donations of two North Carolina businesses: Joyfully Sweet, owned by Britt Tate, and Complete Design & Packaging, represented by Sarah Mozingo.
Joyfully Sweet donated beautifully crafted North Carolina–shaped cookies, adding a meaningful and delicious reminder of home for Midshipmen serving far from their families. Meanwhile, Complete Design & Packaging donated custom boxes, which were essential for assembling and distributing the care packages to Midshipmen. Both of these donations totaled several hundreds of dollars each so we are so thankful for their generosity.
The care packages are more than just treats—they serve as an important morale boost during a challenging time in the academic year at the Naval Academy. Midshipmen face intense academic, physical, and military demands, and these small reminders of support from home can make a meaningful difference.
“During the Dark Ages, our Midshipmen are working incredibly hard and pushing themselves every day,” said Louisa Gallagher, Vice-President of the United States Naval Academy North Carolina Parents Club and host of the packing party. “These care packages are a way for the North Carolina community to wrap our Midshipmen in encouragement and remind them that an entire state is proud of them and supporting them as they prepare to serve our nation.”
The United States Naval Academy North Carolina Parents Club is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Midshipmen and their families throughout their journey at the Naval Academy. The club organizes events, provides resources for families, and coordinates initiatives like the Dark Ages care packages to help keep Midshipmen connected to their home state.
The Parents Club extends its heartfelt gratitude to Joyfully Sweet and Complete Design & Packaging for their generosity and community spirit. Their support helped ensure that North Carolina Midshipmen received a special reminder that they are not alone during this demanding period of academic training.
Businesses and community members interested in supporting North Carolina Midshipmen in future initiatives are encouraged to connect with the USNA NC Parents Club.
Together, the North Carolina community continues to stand behind the young men and women preparing to lead and serve in the United States Navy and Marine Corps.