23 May 2008, Navy-Marine Corps Stadium:  Ensign Erik Westland, USN, president of the Class of 2008 stepped up to the podium and asked Secretary of Defense Gates to join him. Westland presented him with a special gift - a jogging suit, on behalf of the class.  He took a moment to address his class and reflect on their past four years and the opportunities and challenges ahead.

He said to each graduating midshipman “be courageous and stay committed to their faith, family and your service to the Nation”. On behalf of the Naval Academy, he wished them much happiness and success in their endeavors. With that he invited everyone to join the USNA Glee Club, accompanied by the USNA Band, to sing Navy Blue and Gold.

CAPT Klein introduced MIDN 2/C Andrew R. Poulin, USN, president of the Class of 2009. Poulin asked for members of the Class of 2009, 2010 and 2011 to stand and requested three cheers "for those about to leave us". Ensign Westland, returned to the stage and requested three cheers "for those they leave behind". On the third cheer, the Class of 2008 tossed their hats into the air.

The "hat toss", now a traditional ending to the graduation and commissioning ceremonies at all of the service academies, originated at the Naval Academy in 1912. This along with the cannon salute is a symbolic end to the four-year program at Annapolis.