Leonard Hall Junior Naval Academy, a long-standing St. Mary’s County landmark, celebrated its hundredth year in 2009. On Oct. 6, The SMC Board of Commissioners issued a proclamation, congratulating the institution for a century of “significant contributions to our community.”

The academy, situated next to the county governmental center in Leonardtown, began as a Catholic school for boys and was converted to a Junior Naval Academy in 1941. During the 1960’s the school gained national recognition for award-winning parade performances and saw high enrollment throughout the decade. Many students were boarders from outside the county.

Many prominent figures share memories of Leonard Hall. Delegate John Bohanan and County Commissioner Larry Jarboe both experienced the military and academic excellence for which the academy has come to be known. Dr. Bob Schaller, Director of SMC’s Department of Economic and Community Development, also graduated from the history-steeped school in 1968.

An active alumni and supporter, Schaller mustered 14 Leonard Hall graduates to be present for the proclamation. They joined a group of young midshipmen at the neighboring Chesapeake Building to show their appreciation for the school’s centennial.  

The current program continues to blend academic and military teachings, while upholding the traditions forged by 100 years of history. The non-denominational Christian and college prep private school is the oldest operating in the county and promises to instill integrity, honor, leadership, spirituality and motivation in its students. LHJNA is the only non-college military academy in Maryland.

Schaller said, “A lot of folks that attended Leonard Hall proved to be successful in one form or fashion.” That, he suggested, is due to the order and discipline bestowed on the midshipmen. 

The school is now operated by a Board of Trustees and is supported largely by parent and alumni volunteers. The 55 students currently enrolled in grades 6-12 participate in several parades annually and compete in drill competitions regularly.

For more information on the programs at Leonard Hall or their Alumni Association, check out http://www.lhjna.org/