My own DH admitted he could have been a lot higher in his class, but he ensured he was high enough to get Navy air, and took the approach to academics that worked for him, the “just enough.” He enjoyed his varsity sport, he loved performing and traveling with Glee Club, and he tells me, he loved playing cards and chasing women from Goucher and Hood Colleges. He also racked up a Black N (sweater in closet), which no doubt drove his OOM down. DH had a superb record from the well-regarded private school he attended (where apparently he chased the choir girls). I believe Sen McCain enjoyed restriction muster a few times.
Once DH got to flight school, he locked on and ensured he was top in his section and got one of the few jet seats. He had a distinguished career.
Class standing may or may not equate to the perceived quality of the application, HS achievements or later achievements in the Fleet or Corps. It’s always fascinating to watch the sponsor mids who roll through our home during their time at USNA and their careers in and out of uniform.
A good read:
“The Nightingale’s Song” by Robert Timberg, about USNA grads John McCain, James Webb, Robert McFarlane, Oliver North and John Poindexter.