<p>I had the pleasure of being at USNA on I-Day to be there for the Plebes that did not have any family present. Many of us were there with the chaplains to provide cell phones, support and food to those who chose to go it alone. For many, especially those from NAPS or prior experience, they took it in stride. There were however, many who no doubt had wanted to go it alone, that needed a hug, a bit of support and probably would have loved to have a family member there. I think the hardest thing for those individuals was watching the majority of their classmates spending some time with their loved ones and sharing the experiences of that first day. Bottom line is there will be many of the go it alone candidates that will regret their decision and there is nothing about having family there on that day that makes you less tough. Have a serious talk with your candidate and if they still want to go it alone, honor their wishes. I would have been sad to have missed that day, it will continue to be a very special memory for all of us, including our son.</p>