The Mission of the Institute is to provide an independent forum for those who dare to read, think, speak, and write in order to advance the professional, literary, and scientific understanding of sea power and other issues critical to global security. Our vision is to give voice to those who seek the finest Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. Since 1873, the Naval Institute has been the home of innovators, disruptors, and free-thinkers who reject the status quo and who advance vigorous, cogent and well-articulated arguments to strengthen our maritime defense and increase the professional acumen of those who serve. Our membership includes more than 50,000 thinkers and practitioners from around the world who debate the most important issues facing maritime strategy and policy in our open, independent and non-partisan forum - Proceedings magazine. Join us, and make your voice heard today at www.usni.org/membership