A few observations for perspective:
1. The length of this thread proves that HONOR is important to both sides: one side: that we expect honor from the cadre, and honorable cadre, however tough, should act to bring individuals into the team, not out; the other side: that it is difficult and dangerous to judge a cadre's motivation, therefore, we should presume honorable intention as long as the cadre are acting within their given authority. Any attack on that presumption of innocence, absent clear proof, is an attack on the honor of the Academy itself. Both sides are true; therefore, we ought to treat each other with respect and honor in our discourse on this forum.
I told my DS before he arrived that the cadre might try to make him want to quit just to hear him say he is not a quitter, and believe him. I told him he had to prove he wanted to be there, and that no matter what they might say, they wanted him to prove it to. This relationship is rooted in honor: the understanding that, if you give your very best, you will have the respect of your squad and your trainer. "Acceptance" day and "Recognition" are about respect, earned. The process, with its imperfections, allows them to do this. We must trust the honor of the institution to which we entrust our children, and the strength and resilience of our children to overcome adversity even in the face of perceived injustice of the moment. This does not mean it is not possible to be bullied, but I think the discussion proves that it is rare and discouraged. Anecdotally, I thanked a cadre at A-day for the remarkable transformation of the squad since I-day. Instead of "you're welcome", he said "It will make sense to them in a few years." As in Christcorp's and other's posts, there is honor in this when it is for their good--even if they do not see it at the time--just as there was genuine pride in the Class of 2019 on the part of its leaders today. Trust in their honor, because it is real.
Final observation for harmony and safety:
2. Speculation, rumor, and unsubstantiated hearsay are dangerous, divisive, and destructive. This thread originally arose out of false numbers, then morphed into a discussion on the theoretical "possibility" of alleged reports of unfair treatment with dishonorable intent. The discussion devolved and almost became entertaining. But it is not. Many on this forum may worry whether their sons and daughters are being abused and whether it was a mistake to entrust them to a SA. Rumors and speculation feed doubt and breed division. Let it end here. Let us trust this institution we have already committed to trust and support until it is proven guilty by competent evidence, and even then, let us trust the chain of command and military justice to address any offenses. Beyond that, let us trust our capable children to deal with their circumstances as men and women of honor.
My DS apples to USAFA because of the calibre of individuals he saw there. He wants to be of that calibre, just as yours do. I joined this forum because of the calibre, commitment, and love (even tough love) displayed by the long-term advisors found here. Certainly, there is room for healthy discussion, but never let us impute dishonor, divide, or react based on fear, doubt, or anecdotal evidence. There is a reason why hearsay is excluded as evidence in court. It must be tested before it is deemed reliable. But this is not a courtroom. It is bigger than that--it is about learning to trust your commanders in matters of life and death, that they and their orders are honorable.
This task deserves, and requires, a strong presumption of honor, as well as a presumption of innocence, that should only be questioned through proper channels based upon clear and convincing evidence. This forum, with due respect to people's desire to question, vent, and worry, is not the place to present any allegation of potential wrongdoing, unless it is to ask where to make a proper inquiry. Ignoring this will only divide us and undermine our children in their common mission.
As always, I am grateful for the dedicated parents and contributors to this forum for their advice and support for our common cause.