Brigade Commander Joshua McGill
POSTED ON: Wednesday, April 23, 2025 1:41 PM by MC1 Sarah M. Thielen
Each academic semester, the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) selects a new brigade commander to lead the Brigade of Midshipmen. As a prior enlisted Sailor, Midshipman 1st Class (Senior) Joshua McGill’s experiences have earned him the highest leadership position amongst midshipmen. From his early experiences aboard the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) to his transition into leadership at USNA, McGill’s story is one of perseverance and an unwavering belief in the mission of the Naval Academy.
McGill, a native of San Antonio, Texas, made the decision to pursue the role of Brigade Commander stemming from his deep-rooted belief in the Academy’s mission to develop leaders of character. He credits the mentors he had in the fleet and at USNA as the reason for wanting to pursue roles of increased responsibility and leadership.
Before arriving at USNA, McGill’s enlisted time aboard the Bonhomme Richard exposed him to a difficult work environment, where he often felt frustrated. However, after transferring to the USS Makin Island (LHD 8), he encountered a vastly different culture where he felt both chiefs and officers were invested in their Sailors’ development. This stark contrast solidified his understanding of what good leadership looks like and ultimately motivated him to pursue a commission.
“I saw what bad leadership was, and then I saw what good leadership could be,” McGill recalls. “Some of the best officers I met were Naval Academy graduates. They had the opportunity to develop as leaders while they were here, and that’s a skillset I wanted to have.”
Throughout his time at USNA, McGill has prioritized listening, whether to his fellow classmates, leaders in the brigade, or plebes (freshmen).
“Midshipman McGill’s relentless passion for people and his mature awareness of the needs of leaders in the Fleet make him an excellent fit for the position of brigade commander,” said Lt. Joseph Dinkel, a USNA English Department instructor and USNA SEAL program operations officer. “His ability to connect with individuals on a personal level fosters a sense of trust and collaboration within the brigade, essential qualities for effective leadership. Additionally, McGill’s understanding of the challenges faced by his peers allows him to advocate for their development and well-being, ensuring that he can lead with empathy and insight.”
Reflecting on his time at the Academy, McGill points to the importance of being coachable. He says he walked onto the rowing team without any prior experience, and the process of learning, failing, and improving is something he will take with him into becoming a naval aviator.
“I always knew Midshipman McGill would be a great candidate for a leadership billet at USNA,” said Robert Friedrich, the Associate Athletic Director for the Naval Academy Athletic Association. “As his previous rowing coach, he was always a champion of our team culture within the boathouse. He helped guide all of our younger athletes to get the workouts done the right way with the effort, dedication, and passion needed to build a successful team.”
McGill is majoring in Chinese, embracing the challenge of learning a language critical to national security. Upon graduation, he will report to Pensacola, Fl., to begin flight training.
“I’m excited to learn how to fly,” he says. “It’s going to be an incredible experience, and I’m looking forward to being part of an operational unit again where the focus is on executing the mission.”
Given his enlisted background, McGill feels he understands firsthand how much of an impact a good officer can have on their Sailors. He says the Naval Academy has shaped him in ways he never expected, and he wants to give back by helping to shape the next generation of leaders.
“Every person here has a different story, different values, different reasons for serving. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is to shut my mouth, open my ears, and really listen.”
Category: Midshipman, People, Academics, Press Releases