oldgrad/flieger; don't get me wrong. I am definitely not judging whether individuals should or shouldn't be given an appointment to the academy. But we do need to sometimes be realistic and see all sides of the academy process. For instance, we all agree, or SHOULD all agree, that there are some that make it to the academy because of their athletic abilities. I say that with a lot of caution, because my son happens to be an IC. However; he received his appointment very early and BEFORE he was actively recruited for athletics. Which definitely sits better in his mind knowing that he got in without the help of athletics. But we do know that some are selected because of athletics. Is that right or wrong; that debate has gone on for years and will continue to. But you can tell that it is obvious that a lot of athletes apply and come to the academy for only that reason. Unfortunately, many don't realize that when they are recruited for athletics at the academy, it's not like a traditional college where a set number of scholarships are given out; and as such; you are definitely going to stay on the team for 4-5 years being they're paying your education. Many find out when they get to the academy that instead of 18-20 athletes being freshmen and all are expected to be major parts of the team within their time; that 50-60 were recruited, because they aren't scholarship. As such, it is common to cut half of them by spring practice. (Or whatever the sport is). As such, many choose to leave the academy because they realize they can't continue with their sport.
I'm all for athletes and athletics. As I said; my son is one. However; I think it's important that they WANT to go to the academy for the right reasons, and if they can also do athletics at the collegiate level, that should just be a bonus. But this process is not really one the recruiters explain too well to many of the kids.
But most definitely; if someone applies, gets in, goes 4 years, and graduates; then good for them. Best of luck to them and they deserved every bit of the great opportunities they've been given. Whether it's for 5 years after or a 20 year career. But I do stand by my "opinion" that there are some that get appointments that probably wasn't the best choice. I used athletics as an example, and that's probably the most common time this happens. Anyway, it is just an opinion. mike.....