An Asian-American Veteran Reflects On When Discipline Becomes Hazing

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At War (NYTimes.com)
January 6, 2012

http://atwar.blogs.nytimes.com/2012...n-reflects-on-when-discipline-becomes-hazing/

An Asian-American Veteran Reflects On When Discipline Becomes Hazing

As a new West Point “plebe” (freshman) nearly 12 years ago, I was placed in a company that other cadets labeled “Haze” company. The upperclassmen constantly searched for faults in anything, ranging from small uniform deficiencies to not cutting a pie into perfectly even slices during meals. Often corrections would be accompanied by loud yelling. Some freshmen were so intimidated by the upperclassmen that they would hide in their rooms or avoid the company area entirely.

“Yes” is my response when Asian-American parents ask me, “Is the military a friendly place for Asian-Americans?” I cite not only General Eric Shinseki, a former Army Chief of Staff, but also the fact that my current commanding officer (a lieutenant colonel) is Asian-American. Additionally, the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, one of the most decorated Army units ever was composed primarily of Japanese-Americans.