Let's not be disingenuous. I believe when you subtract the cost of uniforms and use of equipment like, say, fighter jets and, for the other academies, aircraft carriers, helicopters, tanks, ammunition, etc. you're talking about a much more typical "scholarship." The total cost of attendance numbers that the academies use are not reflective of tuition, room, and board only like civilian colleges use, and I am quick to point that out to anyone who is unduly impressed by these SA numbers. Even though they are paid while at the academy and beyond, your son or daughter will be paying back every bit of the true cost of their education with their service commitment and, potentially, their lives. Not exactly a bargain in my book.
A dollar value is useful for determining how to discharge 529 funds, but not useful to impress anyone.