USMMA2014mom
5-Year Member
- Joined
- Jul 11, 2010
- Messages
- 78
Having a son that just completed Rat year at VMI...you are absolutely correct that VMI's Honor code does not tolerate any lying, cheating or stealing.
From my perspective and I believe from that of the Brigade of Midshipmen- the established guidelines are the problem. Personal honor is I believe a bedrock and absolute. To offer 1st Class or even 3rd Class Midshipmen the option of remediation is I think completely inconsistent with the honor concept and expectations placed on Midshipmen. Personally I believe that you are either are a person of integrity and ethics or you are not- and if you are not the correct punishment for the offense is separation ( an approach btw that while harsh has plenty of historical precedent and can be found in practice at VMI today. Absolutes are painful ("it was a just a small lie") but they are easily understood and are supported because they are seen to be impartial. The superintendant may well have been within the established guidelines but from my perspective all that highlights is that the system itself is flawed.