<p>In this discussion of “Joe’s” you seem to be talking about two different people, at least I hope that is the case. </p>
<p>I think for the benefit of those potential Mids asking these questions I want to suggest all of you consider the difference of the individuals in question and how you evaluate the conduct of people in the context of the position they hold and the responsibilities they are charged with. There will always be those with character flaws that may try to use the mistakes of others to distract from their own deficiencies. I can understand how someone that may act in such a way would be looked upon with disdain and perhaps labeled a “Joe”. Such conduct is an entirely different from the actions of an individual that acts in support of tradition or their perception of the rules of conduct and comes across as a hard-ass or tough. I would hope that such an individual would not be labeled as such assuming they act in a manner that is fair and reasonable. </p>
<p>I don’t know how you could have a discussion about the Naval Academy without spending a great deal of time talking about traditions. I would also ask you to consider that regardless of who is in charge of the brigade or the academy at large at any point in time, the traditions and expectations for conduct will not be diminished if you do not let them. I’m sure you recognize in any institution or organization it’s easy to become discouraged or disenchanted with people and their actions. There are no places I know of where perfection exists. No matter how things are going for you on any given day, the manner in which you conduct yourself is your responsibility first and foremost and will ultimately reflect on you and you alone.</p>