<p>Everybody in Falcon Stadium cheered when they announced that USNA beat ND. Still, a little good-natured ribbing from some “young whippersnappers” is to be expected, yes?</p>
<p>As far as our knowledge of the history and “traditions of interservice rivalries,” here’s what I do know. The following quote is from one of the finest grads USAFA has ever produced, Col. Hector Negroni, Class of 1961, in which he discusses the first AF-Navy game, back in 1960:</p>
<p>"The game was a dismal experience for Air Force. We got our asses whipped 35-3. Heisman Trophy Winner Joe Bellino led Navy and the Navy team went on to a 9-2 record including playing in the Orange Bowl against Missouri. Air Force ended the season with a 4-6 record. </p>
<p>However, I shall never forget the haughty attitude of the Navy team after the game when Joe Bellino refused to shake the outstretched hand of Air Force quarterback Richie Mayo. Bellino’s remarks were equally inappropriate when he yelled “why don’t you guys go back where you came from.” I do not recall the Navy team accepting the Air Force congratulations. I have many friends who are graduates of the Naval Academy. I realize that this may have been an isolated incident but the haunting memory of that incident has tainted my view of Air Force-Navy games and I relish when the Falcon eats Goat meat."</p>
<p>In sum, rivalry is a two-way street. Can we drop this now please?</p>