US Military Academy at West Point/Expert Profile

Expertise

I can answer questions about admissions to West Point; about the history of West Point; about how to travel to West Point, where to eat, where to stay, etc.; and about West Point`s alumni organization, the West Point Association of Graduates.

Experience in the area

I am a 1970 Graduate of West Point. I served six years on active duty and another 8 years in the active reserve. I have been actively involved as a Field Admissions Representative for over 15 years and have participated on my Congressman's Academy Selection Panel for over 20 years. I am actively involved in West Point Alumni affairs, serving in roles both with the West Point Association of Graduates and the local alumni chapter in Annapolis, MD. I also have two sons who graduated from West Point in 1995 and 2001. Both are veterans of the Iraq war and continue to serve on Active Duty in the Army.

What do you like about this subject?

West Point is a national treasure. Its physical beauty and history are legendary. It is here that the standards for character and integrity in the US Army, and perhaps for all of America, are rooted. West Points enduring Honor Code dictates that a Cadet will not lie, cheat, steal, or tolerate those who do.

What do you still hope to achieve/learn in this field?

I hope to increase the public awareness of West Point as a vital national treasure and to promote consideration of military service and careers by more of America's youth. West Point's motto: Duty, Honor, Country stands as a goal to which all Americans can aspire.

Something interesting about this subject that others may not know:

West Point is the premier leader development instution in the world. While leadership is critical in our society, little of it is taught in the typical university. The 47 month West Point experience is a leadership laboratory which brings in top high school, college, and soldier talent, and commissions officers committed to a lifetime of service to the nation in both the Army and civil sectors.

Something controversial or provocative about this subject

Has the admission of women to West Point since 1976 been a boon or a bane to West Point and the Army? I strongly believe that it has been a boon! Women hold key positions and roles in the Army, hence they need to be included in the mainstream of leadership training at West Point.