The cadet network..... Almost always.
Most "parents" and their "Network" get the majority of their information from their cadets. Even individuals like Steve (Flieger) and myself, who may know most of the policies put out by the academy and the air force, don't know about most of the day to day changes, activities, policies, etc... that the cadets are having to live through. Many of those issues can be at a squadron level or maybe only a temporary policy affecting the cadets for this semester or this year.
Here is my #1 advice about ANYTHING happening at the academy involving day to day life.
1. If your cadet has a question or concern, s/he has a chain of command where s/he can find out the facts. Mom and Dad and the parent's group at home won't have the answer any sooner; and definitely not more accurately.
2. If mom or dad have a question or concern about their little baby boy/girl and their living conditions, they should ask their cadet first about it. You'll get 2 really important pieces of feedback from your cadet. a) More accurate facts about what you're concerned about; and b) Whether or not your cadet is affected or even really cares about it.
And that is the most important thing to remember. You son/daughter are the cadet. It's their life at the academy. If something isn't bothering them, then it definitely shouldn't be bothering you.
As for this thread, a parent's cadet is "Complaining". Are they really complaining to mom/dad or are they simply "VENTING". If they are truly "Complaining" to you, then you need to tell them to get the concerns clarified within their chain of command. I'm sure they aren't actually asking mom/dad for "Assistance". If they are simply venting; then just assure them that they are going to encounter hundreds and thousands of other things at the academy, in the air force, in a civilian job, with their spouse and kids, etc... that frustrates and bothers them. Tell them to learn how to adapt. If they are looking for mom/dad to somehow "Help"; then junior/missy needs to grow up and learn to take care of him/herself.
Ok; speech is done. Mike.....