Tomorrow, Notre Dame and Navy will meet for the 83rd time on the gridiron. It's the longest, uninterrupted intersectional rivalry in college football.

But this game is lot more than just a rivalry.

Since 1927, the Irish and Midshipmen have created a history of tradition, friendship, and respect.

In fact, that friendship saved the university.

During World War II, enrollment fell drastically at Notre Dame. In the spring of 1943, it was barely over 2,500 students and, like many other colleges at the time, Notre Dame faced serious financial problems.

At the same time, the Navy was also struggling; they needed a place to train the increased number of naval officers needed to fight in the war.

So they picked Notre Dame.

From 1942 to 1946, over 10,000 officers were trained at Notre Dame. So many, in fact, that the university was referred to as "Annapolis West."

And it was enough to keep Notre Dame alive.

But even during a football game, you can see that friendship and respect. The Navy band plays the Notre Dame Victory March as they walk out of the tunnel before the game. And afterwards, the Irish players stand with the Midshipmen as they sing the Academy's Alma Mater.