I'm sorry for controversy. To set the record straight, I didn't post what I did because of criticism. I said what I said because of respect. The moment he stopped respecting me just because I needed a waiver, I admit I lost my respect for him. And if that's bad character, then so be it. Let thou without sin cast the first stone. Scout, I'm sorry I insulted you, and I admit I should have limited any problems between us to a message. I hope you accept this apology, and we can get past it.
Please do not confuse my honest assessment of your chances for a waiver, in light of ten years of experience, with any respect or disrespect. I merely gave you the realistic answer to the questions you posed. I am a sycophant for no man, especially a candidate I don't know.
You seem to have taken umbrage with the fact that I didn't fall all over myself telling you that you're the one kid with a dead-bang guaranteed waiver. You're not. No one is, simply because this is the most competitive it's ever been for a USMA appointment. There are way too many variables.
The bottom line is this: if you want honest answers, I'll give them to you. That includes the honest truth that asthma waivers are not the easiest waiver to come by, especially when applications are sky-high and the class will be smaller. Unfortunately, you confused my unwillingness to be your cheerleader with a loss of respect. That is not the case. Facts are facts. As Dixieland pointed out, if a cheerleader is what you seek then you would be better off changing your schema. The military, especially combat arms branches, are not given to that type of encouragement.
If you want someone to blow smoke up your fourth-point-of-contact (you can guess what that means), I'm probably not the guy to ask.
As for whether or not you respect me, I assure you that such notions are immaterial to me, and to my desire to be helpful here. I earn my keep everyday as an officer in the United States Army, in an exceptional unit with the greatest professionals the Army has to offer. I come here to help because I believe in the value of West Point, not because I want approval.
A few good takeaways from this for our candidates...
1. A good tenet of officership is keeping your cool. It's never too early to exhibit that trait.
2. If you do decide to blow your top, it's a good idea not to have a username that gives away who you are.
Let's all move on now.