I remember a CGA parent telling me that the first time her son was flying home in his 4th class year (Thanksgiving), when he got on the small commuter plan, the pilot made an announcement, saying he wanted to let everyone know that there was an academy cadet on board proudly serving his country and he wanted to welcome him on board and thank him for his service (they have to wear their uniform 4th class year when 100 miles or less from the academy). The entire plane clapped and the poor kid was not only freaked out by the excessive attention, but also that the small plane was almost rocking from all the excitement and clapping. One of the people on the plane offered to buy him a drink, to which he said, "Jeez, that's nice but I think the soda is free."
Most parents will have many stories of kindness and appreciation shown to their cadets and their friends.