This research analyzes performance at the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) and fleet retention of midshipmen who have prior enlisted experience in the Navy and Marine Corps. It is the primary hypothesis of this study that prior enlisted experience provides these midshipmen with values and skills that help them overcome perceived academic deficiencies to be successful at the Naval Academy. Linear and non-linear LOGIT regression models are estimated to analyze the influence of prior enlisted experience on performance of USNA classes from 1990 through 1999 and on the fleet retention of graduates. The performance analysis is based on data collected by Admissions to compile USNA's Candidate Multiple with additional variables to account for attributes of each individual's prior enlisted service. USNA performance was measured in terms of leadership potential (striper selection), academics, overall class standing, and graduation rates. Officer retention is depicted by retention rates to the 0-4 promotion board. The results suggest that prior enlisted experience is significant in determining success at the Academy and fleet retention.http://archive.org/details/thedevelopmentof109459299US Marine Corps (USMC) author.Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.