<p>It’s not tough seeing how this might be a source of minor frustration. Our Mid never got a mention at the senior awards ceremony for receiving an appointment to USNA, although the principal did single him out for recognition on graduation night, which then required our going out and buying some buttons. But it seems to me this can be and is a confusing issue. </p>
<p>On one hand those of us associated with SA Mids & Cadets want to tout the significance of this monumental student achievement AND its monetary magnitude. And rightly so. But on the other hand we’re quick to contend steadfastly, even indignantly sometimes, this appointment and its ensuing 4 year education (and concurrent 5 or more years of employment) does NOT constitute a “free” education. Again, rightly so. Maybe more rightly so. Let me offer a few thoughts for those of us mired in this military minutiae.</p>
<p>In the first instance, we suggest this value be counted as “scholarship” awards. In which case, the $$ should be thrown in with the other awards aid. But most often, counting the $$ this way implies virtually no obligation or return aside from maintaining a GPA or majoring in a specific department or field of study. There’s certainly no obligation post-collegiate years. If this is the case, then call it a full ride, and forget the other argument.</p>
<p>But I think in fact it’s perhaps more true to form to see this as work-study money. In fact, recipients EARN every cent of it and more, it seems to me. It’s more like being hired for a job and a big part of that or at least the first part is education and training.</p>
<p>And there’s one more difference that might even suggest that the Cletus Jones FFA Milking Scholarship should merit equal time … or more that senior night in the auditorium. In most cases, unlike the USNA appointment award, Cletus … or ones who value Mr. Jones have given of their personal largesse to allow this award. USNA money are merely reallocated tax dollars. Now, I’ll be the first to suggest that schools ought to indicate that public announcement of these smaller monetary awards won’t occur until a certain level is available for awarding, in order to make these ceremonies more bearable and sense-making. If yours is like ours, pretty soon we’ll be having 25 word talks for awarding gas money to get to the nearest State U. if someone’s willing to fill up the tank in memory of Aunt Minnie.</p>
<p>But imo, while there should be plenty of room for student recognition and the awesomeness (that word DOES apply in this situation, don’t you think?) of this step … for several reasons including past achievement, future possibilities, and life-and-death commitment to serving our nation and every person who cares about freedom.</p>