Metamorphosis - Plebe into Midshipmen

[MIHOSER]

I have noticed recently that my son is referring to himself and his classmates as "Midshipmen" rather than Plebes.

Is this just the normal turn of events or has something taken place to cause this change? I know they are still Plebes until Herndon, but he now seems to be considering he and his classmates as part of the greater whole, subject always to their status at the bottom of the totem pole.

 

[usna1985]

During the summer, it's plebes and detailers. You're very close to your class. As the year goes along, you realize there are 4 classes and you get to know folks in the other classes. While you still are -- and always will be -- close to your classmates, you become part of the bigger whole.

 

[Memphis9489]

I think it's true, over time, the Plebes start feeling like they are an integral part of the Brigade. And they are! Despite the obvious class hierarchy and the disparity of privileges between the classes, they all share many of the same experiences.

They say a Plebe is a Plebe until he climbs Herndon.

I disagree. The mentality of being a Plebe does not go away until (in my opinion) you actually see another Plebe doing things that you no longer have to do.

That's when it really hits you ... "Hey, I'm not a Plebe anymore."

 

[slammy01]

I think it's true, over time, the Plebes start feeling like they are an integral part of the Brigade. And they are! Despite the obvious class hierarchy and the disparity of privileges between the classes, they all share many of the same experiences.

They say a Plebe is a Plebe until he climbs Herndon.

I disagree. The mentality of being a Plebe does not go away until (in my opinion) you actually see another Plebe doing things that you no longer have to do.

That's when it really hits you ... "Hey, I'm not a Plebe anymore."

I agree, I have overheard youngsters saying, "I can't believe I was chopping just a few months ago"