Just a little clarification for some of the folks unfamiliar with a few of the obscure military traditions:
- Dining "In". As has been stated previously, a formal social function with ONLY members of the unit in attendance. Started off long ago, and is loosely based off the European (mainly British, where most of our military customs originated) tradition of the Officers of the unit meeting for a formal meal at least once a week.
Think "Downton Abbey", complete with formal ceremony, formal toasts, and recognition of distinguished guests. I had the pleasure of attending a British Royal AF formal while I was stationed overseas. Servants with white gloves, the passing of the port, the lighting of the "Smoking Lamp", the toast to the Royals and our President, and a whole lot more very formal stuff taken VERY seriously (then, once the dinner was formally closed, a LOT of shenanigans!)
Since then, a LOT of new traditions and wrinkles have been added, depending on the Unit or the Service. Hap Arnold, the father of the US Air Force, started this tradition back up in the AF with his famous (or "infamous", for various reasons) "Wing Dings". It was here that traditions such as the "rules of the Grog" and other fun activities started (at least for the AF). Back in those days, the Grog was VERY alcoholic, now most are non-alcoholic but include some very nasty surprises in the punch bowl (like mustard, mayo, hot sauce, and a few other "nasty" things). Some units now use the opportunity as a chance to combine an Awards ceremony for the past year's activities as well. Most AFROTC detachments will have a formal "Dining In" in the Fall semester for this purpose -- to teach military customs and courtesies in this formal social atmosphere, and as an end of first semester Awards ceremony.
- Dining "Out". Very similar to the Dining "In", but guests are invited. Think "Prom" (if your cadet brings a date. And trust me, the dates usually are in dresses or Tuxes, very much like a prom), or formal social function / banquet if your cadet brings family / friends. Some of the more formal "military only" traditions (such as the Grog) ARE USUALLY NOT OBSERVED, but the line has been blurring over the years and many of the Dining In traditions are now being observed in Dining Outs (imagine telling your date / Mom to be on their best behavior or they "go to the Grog"!)
Most AFROTC units hold a Dining Out in the Spring, and use it once again as an opportunity to recognize cadets for their achievements over the entire school year.
Bottom Line, parents: sorry, but you have to miss out on the fall Semester Dining In, but you will be invited (and encouraged to attend) the Spring Semester Dining Out. I HIGHLY recommend you go, just to witness the military customs and courtesies your sons / daughters have learned, and the pride they have in their new found ROTC community.