The original Topgun actually went through something like that. I'm good friends with one of the folks involved and have heard this a number of times. . . the original souundtrack during flight scenes, all of it was redone just before release because it was extremely poor (hollywood style) and needed some actual operators on the radio.
Yes. I can only share my experience as a 30-year Army Vet. In hard core training that I’ve attended, people drop on request (DOR) on the first day. Here are several reasons that will make you stare at them: missing girlfriend, family; partying-drinking; good life (apartment-car-job); not-in shape.
Agree. Current world situation isn't going to impact anybody's chance of Admission. If someone declines their offer of appointment because of potential for war, they probably were not not a good fit for the Naval Academy anyway, but as a practical matter USNA already anticipates some people not accepting their Offer, so a decline doesn't necessarily open another position for someone else.
