The Navy’s Mascot Is A What?
- Rebekah Gieringer
- Jul 22
- 3 min read
Why Is a Goat the Navy’s Mascot?
The first question that might come to mind is: why is a goat the Navy’s mascot? Why not something aquatic—like a seal, shark, whale, dolphin, or even an otter? At least otters spend most of their lives in the water.
It all began in the 1800s. For the U.S. Navy, goats were kept aboard ships for milk, meat, and hides. They were also far better at keeping their sea legs than other farm animals, making them practical companions on long voyages.
Fun Fact: The “Goat Locker”
The term “goat locker” is another example of how goats influenced Navy culture. In 1893, when the chief petty officer rank was established, the goat locker was literally the area where goats were kept aboard ship. The goats were under the care of the chief petty officers, and their pens were located in the chiefs’ quarters. Today, “goat locker” remains a nickname for the chief petty officers’ mess and berthing. The Bluejacket’s Manual even describes it as a good‑natured reference to chiefs as “old goats.” ( https://www.history.navy.mil/browse-by-topic/heritage/customs-and-traditions0/goats.html )
Humans and Their Goats
Throughout history, humans naturally became attached to the animals around them—starting with dogs fifteen thousand years ago and eventually including sheep, cattle, pigs, and yes, goats. Sure, goats were domesticated for practical reasons like meat, hides, and milk, but you can’t convince me that eleven thousand years ago someone didn’t have a pet goat.
So imagine sailors trapped on a ship for months at a time. Naturally, they bonded with certain animals. This is where the story of the first Navy mascot begins.
A pet goat aboard a Navy vessel fell ill and died at sea. Rather than bury it, the crew decided to honor their beloved companion by having it taxidermied. Two ensigns were assigned the task, but before visiting the taxidermist, they attended a Navy football game. According to legend, one officer thought it would be funny to romp around during halftime wearing the goat skin. The Navy won the game—and the victory was attributed to the goat.
The Rise of Bill the Goat
In 1893, a mascot named El Cid became the official U.S. Naval Academy football mascot. He was a gift from the young officers of the USS New York. With his presence, West Point was defeated, and the goat’s legend began.
In the first game of the 20th century, the Army brought their mule and the Navy brought their goat. Both mascots were dressed in their finest: the goat wore a blanket embroidered with golden “NAVY” lettering, while the mule sported Army attire with the messages “No ships for me” and “I’m a bit of a kicker myself.” The Navy won 11–7. The midshipmen named the goat Bill, beginning a long lineage.
Highlights From Bill’s History
Bill II wasn’t as lucky. He was accompanied by cats that promptly ran off the field, and the cats were blamed for taking the luck with them.
Bill III, an Angora from Princeton, New Jersey, brought a 6–6 tie in 1905.
Bill IV, nicknamed “Three‑to‑Nothing Jack Dalton,” brought two consecutive 3–0 Wins from the Army.
After a string of losses, the Navy in desperation placed an ad in an Indianapolis newspaper asking for “the meanest and fiercest goat possible.”
Bill VI answered the call—and the Navy won that year.
Bill VIII lived on the 22nd floor of a hotel because the Navy was so confident he’d bring victory. He did.
Bill XIV was frequently kidnapped by the Army, but it didn’t help them. He held a 5–5–2 record over the Army and reigned for 12 years—one of the longest tenures.
If you wish to watch a short story on it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qgjaaTwNVtg
Today’s mascot is an Angora goat—the 39th mascot and the 36th goat named Bill. Many Bills throughout history have been Angoras, and who could blame the Navy? Their magnificent horns, imposing size, and easygoing personalities make them perfect mascots on and off the field.
We adore our own Angoras—Julia, my dad’s favorite, and Templeton, my sister’s favorite buck. They each hold a special place in our hearts.
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