Almost There And Then...

GAUSNA2018

5-Year Member
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Mar 12, 2014
Messages
39
So, it has been over 2 years since I first applied to the Naval Academy way back in 2013. I was initially waitlisted and then received a TWE before graduation. I immediately reapplied and have been hoping to see the mail person deliver a BFE ever since. In the mean time, I have been commuting to the local university, taking a plebe course load, and ended with a 4.0 gpa my first semester. I am also a swim coach and work 20 hours a week on average. The summer after graduation, I was cited with discharging a bb gun within city limits after I saw two hooded figures running through my back yard (long story). I was then contacted by USNA and told that my application would go before the character review board for evaluation, and to submit a full review of the incident. I sent all of the documentation that I had and have fully disclosed everything. Does anyone have any experience with this board or know how the citation could affect my chances of receiving an appointment? Thanks so much!
 
There is a significant difference between being charged and being convicted (or pleading no contest). Which applies here? Also did you self report, or did USNA find out through background check?
 
I was cited, went to court, and the judge determined the citation should not have been issued. The citation was changed to a verbal warning. This was all self reported. It does not appear on a background check (I recently had one done for coaching).
 
Why'd you shoot someone with a BB gun? I'm sure that could be an interesting story down the road.
 
I would submit to Annapolis any letters or docs from local law enforcement, and/or your BGO that could attest to your character or give extenuating circumstances to your incident. In the grand scheme of things, the issue of shooting a bb gun at people on your own property comes down to judgment. If you can show that a reasonable person would have behaved in the same way, (and no one innocent was injured) then you should be okay.

If the consensus is that you acted brashly, or in a dangerous manner it may be a tough mountain to climb.

Good luck!
 
Good Luck
If you fully reported it to them before they asked you anything about it, good for doing so. That shows good character.
They may just be reviewing it as a formality or to decide whether or not you showed good judgement in doing what you did.
I tell my DS to put himself in the Academy's shoes and if they wouldn't like you doing it, don't do it.
 
Thanks for the advice! I definately put myself in the Academy's shoes when i reported it.

As a background so you guys don't think I acted rashly, I was in the shower, my dogs started going crazy, and then I got out to see why there was so much commotion. As I looked out the window, I saw two hooded figures walking in my backyard carrying large bags; I tried to get them to stop but as soon as I opened the door, they started running toward the woods. I took action in an attempt to get them to stop.

I already submitted all of the documents that I had and made my BGO aware.
 
Yeah, well, I'm pretty sure shooting a BB gun isn't the right thing to do in that situation. I have a number of guns and I'm not using one unless my life and someone else's life is in danger. Not flashing it around or firing warning shots.

I think you get pretty lucky if nothing came from this though.
 
Looking back, I know that I should have handled things differently by notifying the proper authorities. I still take responsibility for my actions regardless. I acted in the moment as a 17 year old that did not know how to handle the situation properly. The whole experience has definately been a large lesson that I am greatfull for learning.
 
Just curious, how did you end up geting cited over this, when the perps just ran away? Did someone file a complaint?
 
The perps called and filed a complaint about the bb gun. They however were not cited or even warned for criminal trespassing or mischief.
 
I think that USNA actually taking the time (and expense) of sending this to the Character Review Board is a good sign. You're worth their time. That's just my humble opinion.
 
Looking back, I know that I should have handled things differently by notifying the proper authorities. I still take responsibility for my actions regardless. I acted in the moment as a 17 year old that did not know how to handle the situation properly. The whole experience has definately been a large lesson that I am greatfull for learning.

That's a good way to look at it. And in fact, it's a good way to look at any mistake. I'm 31.... I make many many mistakes. It's hard to think about learning from those mistakes in the moment, but something can be gained from every mistake we make.

And... at least it was a BB gun and not a nice big gun.
 
I came into this post thinking you committed some other crime but this is ridiculous haha. Good luck man, personally, I don't think it's going to be an issue at all for you!
 
And I'm sure they later said "Is this a great country or what?"
That is exactly what I thought!

I think that USNA actually taking the time (and expense) of sending this to the Character Review Board is a good sign. You're worth their time. That's just my humble opinion.
Thanks putting it that way. I never thought about it like that.

That's a good way to look at it. And in fact, it's a good way to look at any mistake. I'm 31.... I make many many mistakes. It's hard to think about learning from those mistakes in the moment, but something can be gained from every mistake we make.

And... at least it was a BB gun and not a nice big gun.
Now, I'm starting to look at everything as a learning experience and taking everyone's advice (because other people have already experienced the things that I'm currently going through).It's amazing the things that you learn when you get older.

I came into this post thinking you committed some other crime but this is ridiculous haha. Good luck man, personally, I don't think it's going to be an issue at all for you!
Haha thanks. And if I remember correctly, congrats on your appointment.
 
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