As a parent I am getting a good chuckle out of reading the 'beatings' these kids are getting. My D* and I don't was to disclose anything about them, grew up where if you were not on time, slow, you had some PT I would come up with. Pushups, running, sit-ups etc. And there was also some MT, mental training, nice writing assignments if you forgot something... like why it is important to keep your bathroom clean. I only a few times ever raised my voice to my children, they might disagree, but its true. I would also wake them up early during the summer and they would have assignments outside, inside everywhere. My D* came out of BCT saying it wasn't that hard and in fact it reminded them of home. The problem is I was a coach for decades and worked with kids all the time. I never dis-respected my children and they for the most part respected me. The reason I make this post is for those parents out there reading these posts. I am by far not a perfect parent, but, a little tough love going into USAFA would be helpful. Make your kids accountable for their actions, no excuses, if they don't follow directions or not respect you, give them some PT or MT. keep in mind its a battle, but don't do it out of anger. The Cadre don't hate the Basics, its their job. Well as parents you also have a job also.
Someone told me I must be very proud of my children and that I seemed to enjoy raising children. I responded, I am not raising children, I am raising adults. If in the end they act like children when they leave home, I have failed.
Another piece of advice for those parents again...... and future Cadets.... Getting into USAFA is easy. The 48 months your at USAFA is hard and the following years serving your country will be difficult and amazingly rewarding at the same time. But it is all worth it. The goal is not getting the acceptance letter, its graduation and a good assignment.
Oh, letters home during BCT...... almost 40 they created a nice report on activities everyday which we will give them back at graduation. Did they miss home, yes, but never once did they question why they are at USAFA.
Your at USAFA to serve your country the education is part of the job,.