USNA Holds Memorial Service for Midshipman Zemser

The Naval Academy held a memorial service today in honor of Midshipman 3rd Class Justin Zemser.

Photo by MC2 Jonathan Correa

Zemser was one of the passengers who lost his life in the Amtrak train crash which occurred in north Philadelphia Tuesday, May 12. Zemser was on leave and enroute to his family’s home in Rockaway Beach, N.Y. when the accident occurred. 

“My wife, Lynda, and I join the Brigade, staff and faculty in mourning the loss of Midshipman Justin Zemser,” said Naval Academy Superintendent Vice Adm. Walter “Ted” Carter. “Justin was a talented, highly respected young man with a tremendously bright future. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the Zemser family, and our extended USNA family, during this very difficult time.”

Zemser was a member of the 17th Company, an English major and an academic honor student at the Academy. He was a member of the Navy Sprint Football Team, the Jewish Midshipman Club, and the Semper Fi Society (a Marine Corps club). 

Photo by MC2 Jonathan Correa

Approximately 160 midshipmen from the Naval Academy’s 17^th Company, Sprint football team and Jewish Midshipman Club also attended the funeral service in Hewlett, N.Y.  Friday. The funeral included full military honors, including a bugler and burial detail from Naval Station Groton, Conn. 

Naval Academy Commandant, Capt. Bill Byrne attended on behalf of the Naval Academy administration. Marine Corps Capt. Brandy Soublet, Zemser’s company officer, gave a eulogy. Naval Academy Jewish chaplain, Lt. Yonatan Warren, presided over the service.

The Naval Academy remains deeply saddened by the death of Justin Zemser, and we will continue to support his family during this very difficult time.