The Naval ROTC program was established in 1926 at six universities across the country. Today there are approximately 5000 college students enrolled at over 80 colleges and universities. The mission of the Naval ROTC program is to develop midshipmen mentally, morally, and physically, instilling within them the highest ideals of honor, courage, and commitment, to become commissioned officers in the United States Navy and Marine Corps. The NROTC Unit at Maine Maritime Academy was founded in 1972 and has produced over 700 commissioned officers in the United States Naval Service.