Parents don't want me to go...

Sportsman88
Tue, 01 Mar 2016 02:51:02 +0000

No body loves peace more than the one who has been to war. I understand the fear and it while it is legitimate, it is often overblown. Even after the past decade of war, the casualty percentage is very low.

What is a high probability is deployments away from family, long hours, and mental and physical tests of endurance. But you will learn to be a leader and learn your limits are far beyond what you thought.

I am concerned when a student wants to go to USNA/USMA because his or her parents are pushing it. That will not get you through the arduous training you will endure for four years. If you have the fire in your belly, that will get you through.

It’s your life. You need to be able to articulate to your dad why you want to be an Army (or Naval) Officer. I expect you can do that or you would not have been offered admittance. Own the decision. Drop the emotion of the subject and have an adult discussion where you allow your dad to disagree with you and where you can disagree with him without being angry or forgetting you love each other. I know a fair number of folks whose parents were not supportive of a military academy until they actually saw what it did for their kids.

If you walk away, will you regret this forever? Don’t ask your dad to agree. Ask him to respect your decision. I’m a parent and I would love my kids to serve if they so desired. One may but not likely through a service academy due to her desired field which is not an option as an Ensign out of NROTC/USNA.

Yes, I say Go Navy, Beat Army! But 364 United, one day divided. Best wishes on your decision and your conversation with your dad.