<p>I am new to posting on this site- and I have enjoyed reading the posts from time to time over the last few years…until recently. I feel like I finally need to add my 2 cents, and risk exposing myself to criticism in the process. And there lies the problem. Instead of this forum inviting and promoting friendly discussion on topics related to the Naval Academy- the good ,bad and everything in between…it has been reduced to an exchange of barbs, a competition of witty high-brow remarks, and people taking sides against each other. I realize that there are serious matters going on in the world - and as concerned Americans it certainly can stir passionate feelings and opinions. But I must respectfully offer my opinion that some topics should be discussed on a more appropriate forum suited to political discourse. Or if relevent to the academy, responses should be constructive…not hurtful. I am not directing my response to any people in particular, and must admit that I have found some of these discussions amusing>>> but then there have been those instances where I’ve felt the need to duck for cover. Somewhere along the way we’ve forgotten that we have kids and their parents looking to gain insight on the United States Naval Academy from this forum…seems less focused on the academy and more about hammering home individual opinions lately. Speaking for myself -the tone of many discussions does not encourage participation from “outsiders”… unless you’re willing to join the fray at the risk of verbal evisceration.<br>
My intent is not to insult anyone or be overly critical. And I certainly can choose not to visit this website anymore if it’s not to my liking. But I just want to say what a great opportunity this forum gives us to connect with each other because we are all joined by a common thread…whether it’s a connection to a service academy, a desire to be connected to one, a loved one who is serving or has served our country, etc. etc. I don’t know anyone who has ever had a family member attend a service academy and can relate to my experiences. I guess I was just hoping that I could find that place here.
Just one last thought. I am the mother of two fine young men who have chosen to serve their country in a time of war - an enlisted in the Navy and a Naval Academy Midshipmen. I can’t even begin to tell you how much my heart aches because I miss them, and worry that someday they could be put in harms way. And yet my heart soars with pride for their noble and courageous choice to serve when they could be living the carefree lives of a 19 and 21 year old. They did not choose to serve for political reasons, or were swayed by an agenda. Americans voted for The President of the United States, and my sons will serve under the direction of that President, regardless of party or politics.In their eyes politics has nothing to do with their sevice to their country. American citizens cast their ballots, my sons serve who they elect. Period.I guess that’s why it bothers me when I see politics discussed on a military forum. One has nothing to do with the other.They love their country, they love their freedom and they’ll sacrifice their life to preserve yours regardless of your political views. That includes protecting a persons right to free speech. But we don’t honor those in uniform with the mudslinging that goes on on this service academy website, or by alienating those who want to participate in this forum.
As a side-note, if anyone would like a reality check, click on U.S.Service Academies at the top of the page and then click on the West Point site. You’ll find an announcement on their homepage that they’ve recently lost a graduate on a mission in Iraq. Find her picture. It’ll take your breath away. She was bright, young and beautiful.
We owe it to this young lady ,and to all those who Have died ,and Will die in battle, to try to use this forum to unite us instead of divide us.</p>