Academy to dedicate Jewish chapel, student center

The Naval Academy will dedicate a new chapel and student center on Sunday named for the nation's first Jewish flag officer, Commodore Uriah P. Levy, a man who fought to serve his country while still observing his faith.

An inscription on a glass panel at the entrance to the sanctuary quotes Commodore Levy: "My parents were Israelites and I was nurtured in the faith of my ancestors. I am an American, a sailor and a Jew."

Organizers of the project say the building came out just as envisioned.

"I come out here every day, and every day I have to take a deep breath, it is so beautiful," said Cmdr. I.A. Elson, a rabbi assigned...