Q29: Are there any Congressional, Defense, or Army mandates impacting the ideals or welfare of the Academy, or Graduates, which concern you?

The following are the raw comments collected for this survey question.  The numbers serve only to identify the comment for this question and do not serve any other identification purpose:

[001]  Loss of Regular Commission upon graduation.

[002]  Funding and any moves to consolidate all service academies

[003]  Sure..... The services need a single agency that will focus our needs and resources on the specific issues. Today, these groups appear to look like a bag of parts. Believe all groups should consolidate to focus and make their point.

[004]  This extends from my comment above, that West Point still finds itself in a spiral of declining influence and support in the Army, with its relevance under scrutiny and challenge. The last time a run on USMA resourcing was overturned occured in 1988 when General Art Brown was VCSA. Since then we have seen a decline in all areas: OMA, MCA, reduction in size of the Corps and faculty, etc. etc. The sad state of funding for the Arvin gymnasium renovation is but one example. In this regard perhaps AOG should be doing more to "lobby" for West Point, as AUSA does for the Army. Since the apperance some years ago of the White '67/Fagan '69 authored pamphlet "You're Getting a Lot for your Money, Congressman," I haven't seen much in this regard.

[005]  The new OER is a disgrace. As bad as the previous one was, this is worse.

[006]  RA Commissions--West Pointers deserve RA commissions (as do ROTC-DMGs). There ought to be some reward for 1) being selected over 90% of one's high school peers and 2) surviving a rigorous 4-year education that has (had?) a >25% attrition rate.

[007]  I'm concerned with the authorization of an early out program for '96 grads to serve in the National Guard; this should not have been done. Grads need to serve out their full commitment before leaving Active Duty.

[008]  Budget allocation appears inadequate Press reports about USMA Prep being used to achieve racial and gender goals is disturbing. Equal treatment of all applicants ought to be a hallmark for USMA and USMA Prep.

[009]  Recent report on basic training and impact of "coed" military environment, especially lowering of training standards to accommodate differences in the sexes.

[010]  General underfunding of the Academy.

[011]  I regret that they are too complex to discuss here. They relate mostly to national policies being followed by Congress or the Administration with regard to treatment of people.

[012]  The loss of RA status upon graduation

[013]  See 28 above. If we don't cut back we could lose the entire operation. Many think that ROTC and OCS can do the job at a lot less cost to the tax payer. Be pro-active!

[014]  Current President's dislike for Military

[015]  All service academy graduates should be offered and required to accept a Regular commission.

[016]  Changing the words in the cadet prayer was wrong. When an attempt is made to change the word of The Corps, expect to see huge backlash by graduates.

[017]  see above

[018]  All three of these entities seem to be willing to allow deep pocket contributors to support the USMA.

[019]  I'm probably missing it, but it doesn't look to me like HQDA is fighting very hard for $$ for WP. Seems like USNA and USAFA are doing much better. Every dollar we give up and fund through the WP Fund, is a dollar we'll never get back!

[020]  If the above trend continues USMA could find itself (as in the past) under attack. Why a fully funded national "university" when states and private universities with ROTCs and the OCS program can fill officer requirements? The "uniqueness" of a USMA education shold be the primary recuiting tool, not the academic reputation.

[021]  I have the general feeling, not backed up by facts, that the overall value of the Academy has been devalued over time. I think in the minds of many USMA does not occupy the same preeminent position it did some time back. This is where the efforts of the AOG can help. If the institution is not recognized for it's contributions to the nation it becomes vulnerable to attack.

[022]  Too many to mention here .... mission, pay, medical care, family support, career progression, weapons procurement, etc,..etc,...

[023]  The RA commission issue did

[024]  Appropriations for the Academy are inadequate. One small example is the virtual destruction of the USMA Band. So-called cutbacks have eliminated the Hellcats, for example.

[025]  1. Women quotas (this has been ongoing for a long time). 2. Increased minimum year payback for grads (this time service 3. Decreased active and retired benifits - particularly medical and dental.

[026]  The eroding of the military base, coupled with the low number of congressional members who are Academy graduates (from any Academy) provides a potential that must be watched. I believe that we will see less support for the Academies in the future.

[027]  The awarding of a reserve commission, rather than an RA commission, strikes a blow to the mission of the Academy. Graduates should be given the RA commission as a symbol of the lifetime of service the Academy prepares them for.

[028]  Excessive Congressional meddling and micromanaging in "politically correct" issues at all levels

[029]  Budget cutbacks + increased commitments = disaster We have a hollow Army again but the Army leadership refuses to admit it or deal with it.

[030]  Consider the goals of the Retired Officer's Association. As I read their literature, they appear to remain informed on pending legislation which impact soldiers. We should remain as vigilant.

[031]  We must fight to keep our past system alive.

[032]  The fact that graduation no longer guarantees a Regular Army commission. While the competition may be valuable, one has to ask how USMA is different that ROTC...what justifies the extra cost?

[033]  RA commissions - What a blow to USMA morale, prestige and self respect! - The new policy must have had the same impact on ROTC cadets and graduates.

[034]  gays in the military

[035]  Given the current administration, I am concerned about potential cuts in compensation and services for active and retired service members.

[036]  I hope that the Army is not losing the "eye of the tiger" in this era of polictal correctness. As a former special operations pilot I realize the importance of being good as opposed to just looking good. Killing is what we do best.

[037]  We did a lousy job fighting Sam Nunn on the regular commision for graduates. There are those that would like to see the doors of all the Academies closed. The logic being that the academies cost a heck of a lot more than the ROTC programs. Therefor, why spend all that money. This issue has not died and the AOG must be ever vigilant

[038]  USMA funding cuts

[039]  Denial of regular commissions to Academy AND distinguished ROTC graduates.

[040]  I feel that pressure from DOD, Congress etc. has transformed USMA from its focus of producing military leaders to one of a general university.

[041]  As a general proposition, I do not trust Congress, otherwise, no.

[042]  The Reserve Commission to graduates issue.

[043]  Graduates should graduate as Regular Army officers. Graduates should serve their complete obligated service time---no exception, except for non performers.

[044]  I believe West Point lost a good deal of its raison d'etre when it ceased commissioning exclusively in the combat arms. FACT: any of us can name a dozen great ROTC programs that represent a less expensive alternative in the minds of the taxpayers ... to say nothing about the minds of the non-West Point Army leadership. Instead of spending time and money "telling our story to the public", we should reduce the Corps to a reasonable size and return to combat arms-only commissioning. Since Congress (hell, our own leadership) will never let that happen, we are in deep trouble. The central problem: West Point's core values may be heroic, but they only really depart from the norm when one adds the fact of combat arms leadership preparation. Absent that, and other institutions can do close enough to the job we are doing so that our existance rapidly becomes an expensive non-essential.

[045]  RA commission issue-NO problem 5, 6 vs. 8 year obligation-seems fixed Constant undercurrent of "why an Academy" on Capitol Hill-YES Diversion of too many new grads to Med School, Law and now CSS roles-YES (Every branch needs a solid core of LTs. Is USMA the best source for AG or Finance officers? I don't know....

[046]  I am not aware of any, but wish to learn more.

[047]  The recuring desire to remove the funding for the Academy from the budget.

[048]  Funding for the academy. Is the politically correct solution the best for the academy?????

[049]  Restore RA commissions on graduation. If this is not possible, make them effective one year after graduation which is what I understand the current law allows. Stop direct commissioning into combat-service-support branches. Require two year detail in a combat or combat-support branch first.

[050]  1.Loss of the Regular Commission w/probation at Graduation. 2.Errosion of active duty and retired medical benefits. 3. Need for a FEHBA-65 type program for retirees over age 65.

[051]  See above

[052]  If we don't show we are something "special," then we deserve to be closed and the Nation will rely on ROTC/OCS. We have to get back to our "roots" and not try to be "Ivy League."

[053]  Bill Clinton

[054]  Poor treatmenr by C in C.

[055]  Hard to be specific, but in essence: Will West Point survive its third century? In the face of apparently declining support in the Congress; in the face of declining numbers of graduates in the Army's top ranks; in the face of rising costs for the USMA education.

[056]  I am concerned about the loss of a regular army commission for graduates, but do not believe any move should be taken to try to overturn the legislation. There is already too much talk about consolidating or eliminating the academies.

[057]  See 28 above.

[058]  Let me know who I can forward a draft of a book, In Defense of the Republic. It needs editorial help but it outlines the thoughts.

[059]  The new regular commissioning process. It should be returned to the system where service academy graduates and distinguished ROTC (and equivalent for other services) graduates receive regular commissions on graduation.

[060]  Graduates should receive regular commissions.

[061]  Cutting funding Regular Army commissioning Service Oblgation lenth (5 years max)

[062]  First off of course is the subject of "no regular army commission" at graduation. Secondly is the DOA approach to this by waiting to field grade.

[063]  Lack of regular Army commission upon graduation, Lack of funding to continue WP as a world class institurion

[064]  1. regular commissions for graduates of all service academies 2. I'm unsure if I favor or disfavor provision of substantial funding from graduates/AOG vice U. S. Treasury

[065]  I am concerned about too many civilian instructors at West Point.

[066]  Personally, I like the idea of both genders training and serving together. They do in the private sector and, again, limiting such "cultural" and intellectual exchange can lead to suspicion or marginalization. I also think that, contrary to the conventional wisdom, the Army has done a better job than it appears in teaching the sexes to get along. A little more emphasis on the positive (particularly by those researching how the Army does things) might result in a more balanced and comprehensive view of the problems and solutions the Army has experienced which, actualoly, are a reflection of what the populace at large faces. In my opinion.

[067]  One can only worry about the long term effect of both an executive branch and a Congress with ever decreasing military experience and understanding;.

[068]  The Regular Commission Dispute

[069]  The consolidation of the academies into one. This concern is linked to my above concern about the watering down of the academy experience.

[070]  I am afraid that our more recent graduates are being subjected to a mental browbeating by the congressional tribe of "peacemongers" who wish to look like they have found another source of frivelous spending of hard earning "tax-payers" moneys by having military academies at all.

[071]  Lack of Regular commissions at graduation.

[072]  The entire realm of what is "politically correct" versus what is morally right is slowly filtering through all of society. I would hope the AOG would not succumb to what is currently popular out of expediency. I cannot point to a specific mandate as asked above but it is more just a sense of where the country is going. I would hope West Point not lose sight of its traditions.

[073]  Politically correct quota systems. Tolerance for lower and graying of previously held ethical standards. Lowering of physical standards to accomodate women.

[074]  not providing regular army commissions to graduates

[075]  All academy and honor ROTC graduates should be awarded a regular commission. They deserve nothing less.

[076]  No RA No support on the politacal level The fear of senior staff to make a decision that might rock the waves at the civilian level. Ie the failure of the Chairmen fing to autorize a SOC mission to recover the FA18 pilot in DS

[077]  The continuing issues of women in the services as well as the Clinton administration policies on homesexual members of the services.

[078]  Maintaining standards in light of the gender problems faced by the Army and Academy. Must continue to resist the efforts to allow women in the combat arms or in combat. Their presence in forward combat support and combat service support units is bad enough.

[079]  I comment on those directly as an Academy Professor and will save you the space here.

[080]  The changes in commissioning and the degrading of the West Points systems that existed for almost 2 centureis.

[081]  Lack of appropriated funding at a constant level allowing the Supe to forecast and carry out the programs necessary to have a quality Military Academy. Unfortunately, this is a sign of the times.

[082]  I think the size of the Cadet Corps should be reduced greatly to reflect the return to a smaller army. Better to have more quality than quantity. Then the graduates should be regular army. We had 472 in the class and that might be sufficient for the army today. Of course there are many things of concern as a retired officer, but not specifically related to West Point - such as lost medical care and coming reductions in commisary etc etc.

[083]  1. Loss of RA Commissions 2. Reduction in the number of West Point graduates selected for high rank 3. Low retention rates for graduates in the active army 4. Forcing graduates off active duty so they cannot pursue a full Army career 5. The Army's failure to effectively utilize USMA graduates

[084]  I am concerned that cadets are not given a regular commission.

[085]  Early outs-grads should complete 5 year commitment on Active Duty, not in the NG. Recruitment of minority candidates for USMA-USMA population should reflect our society as a whole, to include an equal representation of all Americans.

[086]  Present globalist/pro-UN policies.

[087]  I know of no mandates, other than forcing women into everything--and apparently those women in the service don't want much of what's being forced---I'm damned tired of social engineering!

[088]  Several things are of concern: the decision to grant only reserve commissions; the declining budget support from Congress and the Army; the plea from the Supe for graduates to provide monetary support that should be provided by the Army via budgetary support from Congress;

[089]  Failure to commission graduates in the Regular Army.

[090]  Many of the actions taken by Congress which reduce the "value" of the military compensation package make it very difficult for soldiers to remain dedicated to life-long service to the nation . We must continue to protect all benefits so that we can continue to attract and retain the high caliber of people that we have now.

[091]  removing the RA designation

[092]  Developing a paper

[093]  I am unaware of any at this time, except for the current chief executive.

[094]  see 28

[095]  Periodic challenges by congress on USMA mission and existence. Need to continue to show cost benefit.

[096]  Not obtaining a regular commission upon graduates. This appears a major step toward reducing USMA to an ROTC type college, or worse, eliminating USMA. I went to USMA because it was the sole best way to get to be a Regular officer. Evidently not necessarily true any longer.

[097]  RESERVE COMMISSIONS HAVE TO GO. INADEQUATE BASOPS/INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING MUST CEASE. THE AOG CAN RAISE FUNDS BUT THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT MUST CONTINUE TO PAY IT'S SHARE.

[098]  Mistress of the Sword RA Commissioning

[099]  The continued rumors and activities by Congressional members to eliminate or combine the Academies.

[100]  RA Commissions Downgrading leadership to a committee affair. Sharing and warm fuzzies and all.

[101]  Same as #28: I do not support using USMA as a social laboratory. I believe decisions should be based upon how USMA reflects society rather than is the forebearer of social evolution. I recognize changes will occur, but let changes occur to catch USMA up with society rather than the converse. I do not support using USMA as a social laboratory. I believe decisions should be based upon how USMA reflects society rather than is the forebearer of social evolution. I recognize changes will occur, but let changes occur to catch USMA up with society rather than the converse.

[102]  I do not wish to take the time to elaborate. An example is the regular commission issue.

[103]  Yes, the fact that even though we are drawing down our forces (almost 50% reduction since I have been in), we never seem to reduce the size of the Corps. There is not as big a need for LT's these days, as is evidenced by all the "early outs" being offered of recent graduates, and the active duty end stregnth is still going down. How can we expect the size of the Corps to stay the same? The message it sends is "Don't worry cadet, the liklehood of you being needed through your 6 year commitment is minimal", which to me seems to spark a less than commital attitude about serving the nation. The cadets come here knowing that many people are released from service without serving their obligation (servng in the inactive reserve for the remainder of a commitment is hardly the same as serving on active duty). How can we justify to the Public that we still, today, with a reduction in force, need to accept as many (or nearly as many) new cadets as we did 8 or 10 years ago?

[104]  -- Civilian faculty -- lack of RA commissions

[105]  1) Downsizing. Physical impact on Army and mental impact on current and potential members. 2) Reduced funding and effect on warfighting readiness. 3) 2 wars simultaneously with current size of Army! 4) Sexual harrasment turning into witch hunts.

[106]  CURRENTLY, THE ARMY MAY REDUCE USMA'S TACTICAL OFFICER STAFF BY APPROXIMATELY TEN PERCENT. THAT IS, EACH REGIMENT MAY LOSE ONE COMPANY. IF THIS OCCURS, TACTICAL OFFICERS WILL RECEIVE AN INCREASE OF APPROXIMATELY 14 CADETS PER COMPANY. WHILE THIS NUMBER IS STILL QUITE MANAGEABLE, DECISION MAKERS MUST CONSIDER HOW THEIR DECISIONS WILL IMPACT THE QUALITY OF THE OUTPUT. THAT IS, IF TACTICAL OFFICERS ARE UNABLE TO DEVOTE THE AMOUNT OF TIME NECESSARY FOR GOOD INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT, A VERY IMPORTANT QUALITY ASSURANCE PIECE MAY BE LOST.

[107]  Regular Army, lowering of standards to be politically correct

[108]  I don't even know what they are, but there is always some liberal nut in Congress that wants to weaken the great traditions of West Point or diminish it's mission. Constant guard must be kept. I firmly believe that homosexuality is a mental disorder which is characterized by amoral and deviate behavior which must not be tolerated in the military, and especially at the Academy.

[109]  reserve commissions for graduates. Lack of graduates in command positions.

[110]  Growing internationalism concerns me deeply. See my comments above regarding the subordination of national interests to the "greater good" of our world community.

[111]  Letter to Jack Hammack later.

[112]  I believe that the policy of not giving regular commissions to academy and distinguished ROTC graduates is wrong and should be changed.

[113]  I think making USMA coed has greatly reduced its prestige -- but it is the law of the land!

[114]  But they are all well above my retired pay grade or ability to meaningfully affect !

[115]  1. Loss of regular army commission requirement. 2. Loss of combat arms requirement. 3. Politically correct approach to military service.

[116]  Retirement Benefits Security

[117]  It concerns me that Academy Graduates do not receive an Active Duty Commission upon graduation but must now compete with graduates of other programs. I think with the additional time that must be served and the current status of the army (re: downsizing, rifs, early outs), not having an Commission after graduation only spurs more graduates to leave service early or after their service committment is over.

[118]  Draw down is affecting the entire Army. We are setting ourselves up for another Task Force Smith. A Zero Defect mentality is manifesting itself. Commanders are becoming experts at being "spin doctors". Many of the really good officers are getting out and starting civilian careers. Officers that are marginal and have non-marketable skills are hanging in there and telling the "Boss" what ever he wants to hear.

[119]  See above.

[120]  The current affermative action movements concern me. As I stated previously, regardless of federal legislation, West Point must remain wholly accessable to all minority groups represented in the United States. More to the point, West Point ought to take an aggressive stance to ensure that minority representation is AGGRESSIVELY attained and that our minority enrollment reflects the demographics of the American People, not the demographics of the U.S.Army.

[121]  The recent meeting of past Supe's should be an annual occurence. I was particularly pleased with the comments of General Berry.

[122]  Don't know

[123]  Downsizing

[124]  Reserve commission for graduates

[125]  Too many women in the Academy.

[126]  Differences between services on funding of WP facilities. The fact the Sup has to send such a significant amount of his time fund raising.

[127]  Reserve status of newly commissioned LTs

[128]  Again, the mandates concerning women and their integration. Combat branches and selection are no longer mandatory. Not granting Regular Army commissions is a seriously negative impact, and the softening of ideals, standards and academic requirements are all serious threats to the basic fabric of the Institution.

[129]  Eliminating initial RA commission. Making grads look and feel more and more like their ROTC counterparts.

[130]  In summary, "The Corps Has"

[131]  Women Civilian instructors/professors Regular commissions

[132]  I do not have enough facts to answer this properly.

[133]  Money

[134]  What impact the "separated by sex" basic training might have on Beast Barracks.

[135]  Graudates should still be "special", in terms of commission, DOR and primary assignment to combat arms. USMA should not be just another ROTC program.

[136]  This is a pretty broad question. I believe there is a growing perception among members of congress that service academies are too expensive and have outgrown their usefulness. This perception will spread as more members enter congress who have never had experience with the military service. Our Academy could "wither on the vine" due to lack of congressional support unless we stay proactively involved in informing and educating them about West Point. This could be done in partnership with our sister academy organizations.

[137]  Continual Congressional questioning of the relevance of USMA

[138]  THE LACK OF INTEGRITY IN THIS ADMINISTRATION CONCERNS ME IN THAT THERE IS A POSSIBLE EFFECT ON THE WELFARE OF THE CORPS.

[139]  We need to always be aware of the shifting support for the nation's armed services and the academies. An effort to assure that the education provided by USMA will be seen as "uniquely" in touch with future defense needs could help assure long term support. We must not be seen as just another college that happens to be "free" for the nuisance of wearing uniforms for 4/6 years. Some of these directions will be anathema to traditionalists - will go into the soft stuff like nation-building, civic action, etc. Problem is that "warrior" class is simply not going to get much support.

[140]  Just about anything.

[141]  Don't know

[142]  ignorant of what is going on

[143]  see above

[144]  Removal of policy of not awarding Regular Commisssions to graduates.

[145]  West Point graduates should be commissioned in the Regular Army with at least a five year commitment. Furthermore all males should be required to Branch into Combat Arms unless they have a disqualifying physical problem.

[146]  i may be out of touch but this whole concept of PC will, I think, weaken our military and eventuall USMA-it is already starting a societal backlash and resentment

[147]  Talk of West Point not being needed to develop officers for the service of our country.

[148]  making decisions that are politically correct rarther than decisions that are based on facts and experience

[149]  Reserve commisions for graduates.

[150]  The obvious dislisk and distaste that this administration executive branch) has for the military and its' lack of support.

[151]  I am personally sickened and embarrassed by our current administration and the effect it has had on national moral conduct. I know the relative peace that we enjoy inevitably leads to a smaller military, but these guys would cut troop strength in any case. Get our regular Army troops out of Bosnia, Africa and whatever other godforsaken messes we are into right now. Special ops, CIA, etc. are beter suited and trained for these missions. You asked.

[152]  I am concerned about recent public satements by Army officials regarding sexual harassment & equality in the Army. It appears Army officials are eager to avoid conflict with the present administration regarding women soldiers. Army officers should be first and foremost concerned with the quality of our combat units, even at the expense of "sexual equality." They need to voice the truth that while women have a vital role to play in the military, we must not sacrifice military readiness for furthering social goals. My particular concern is that the the Army is unwilling to admit that intergration of women into certain units has been a failure for fear of backlash from the President & the media.

[153]  Increasing civilianization of the faculty.

[154]  There is too much emphasis on keeping cadets once they make it through R-day. If people want to leave, let them. If people have problems with telling the truth, throw them out. Trust me, I've graduated with enough shitbags already.

[155]  see 28

[156]  There have been some attempts at doing away with the military academies as being unnecessary. This would be a great mistake for the country.

[157]  Feel very strongly that USMA and the Army have let down graduates by not fighting for RA Commission immediately upon graduation. Waiting until reaching grade O-4 gives graduate no incentive to remain in Military Service.

[158]  Same old, same old. I think the women in combat branches should be proportional to the women in the NFL, NBA, major league baseball and professional boxing. Are those physically tougher than armed combat?

[159]  No Regular Commission for graduates Low retention percentage Too many graduates

[160]  The laws governing nomination and appointment to the Academies (all of them) are antiquated and political. Many members of Congress use selection panels to arrive at their nomination lists. Appointment should be based on "best qualified" and the congressional element elimninated. It is just another step in the process that has existed for many years and no-one has had the "guts" or gumption to change it. The Coast Guard Academy is an exception. What's wrong with their system? Of course we want geographical distribution for cadet selection/admission, but why do we need the Congressional input? Look at the system used by the USAFA when it was first established. That system has more to offer than the present one used by USMA, USNA, USAFA. The current law goes back to the 1830's. It's time for a change.

[161]  lack of funding

[162]  See above

[163]  1. Lack of sufficient funds to maintain the physical plant. 2. Lack of clarity of mission of West Point in contrast to other learning institutions. i.e., how do we justify the cost of training and educating cadets in terms of return on investment for the military?

[164]  Forcing reserve commissions on USMA graduates eliminates the primary reason I went to USMA, to be a career officer in the Regular Army! Forced branching of lieutenants into other than their choice leaves a sense of bitterness even after they are successful in that branch.

[165]  See above.

[166]  Female cadets and recent "breast feeding" episode that I watched on television.

[167]  See question 28 response.

[168]  Accepting women, who aren't allowed to serve in combat. Racial preferences.

[169]  lack of adequate funding.

[170]  1. Regular Officer status of Graduates. 2. Size of the Corps of Cadets.

[171]  Congress must fund the Army and West Point at an adequate level. AOG must fignt against budget cuts for basic needs especially while Congress and the Administration continue to fund unneeded acquisition and maintain unneeded installations.

[172]  I have tried to state them in my previous notes.

[173]  Too much political correctness - Separate men and women, etc. New Mission statement? That's a concern, I suppose.

[174]  I continue to be concerned with how women cadets are integrated into the academy. There were double standards when I was there ('83-'87) and I don't think women were challenged enough. The army is not as nice to our women graduates as was the academy.

[175]  Lower standards based on "inclusion".

[176]  Women attending. The women should have a separate service academy. Old traditions were proper ones and this is the same for civilian as well as military. Having too close contact among those with raging hormones diverts attention from the primary job of providing the best education. This is equally true for both sexes. I can't imagine having had to cope with this as a cadet. Nor can I fully appreciate the difficulty my daughter had being in the first class with females. I strongly feel the whole experiment was not sufficiently thought out prior to implementation.

[177]  1. Increasing number of civilian faculty 2. Loss of Regular Army commission status upon graduation 3. Size of Corps of Cadets should be reduced to reflect downsizing of Army or, preferably, more young grads should be encouraged to stay on active duty, as opposed to being encouraged to leave.

[178]  1. Lack of Regular commissions for Academy and DMG graduates. 2. Firing of Col. Hallums 3. Selection of a person without batallion command time as Mistress of the Sword 4. Relaxation of the strenuous life of the cadet.

[179]  The loss of the RA commission upon graduation is bound to have a negative impact on those cadets who are interested in a career in the Army. It also adds to the "ammunition" I cited above.

[180]  Failure to award RA commission on graduation.

[181]  Army studies to eliminate West Point.

[182]  RA commissions.

[183]  Grads should receive Regular commisions after 2 years. More emphasis placed on fighting spirit- get away from our current liberal do-good, be nice attitude.We keep asking our troops and officers to do more and more with less and less- this impacts morale, retention,and espirit.

[184]  The abolition of Regular Army status for Graduates of USMA and ROTC DMGs. Also the forced feeding of females into the academies.

[185]  Restore regular commissions for all graduates.

[186]  Treatment of females.

[187]  Lack of GI Bill for class of 1977

[188]  regular army commissions

[189]  Congressional - Someone got the bright idea that men and women are identical (as opposed to equal in value). Sorry, but several million years of evolution says they are not identical. Treating men and women as if they were identical simply will not work, however much wishful thinking goes on. Even the Isralies gave up on it, and their very existance depends on suffecient manpower in the military. Thus, different standards; and from different standards, different classes of soldiers - perception being reality (1st law of marketing).

[190]  The issue of increasing the percentage of civilian instructors concerns me. We must make it clear to Congress that academic qualifications are only part of what makes an instructor qualified at USMA-- civilians cannot offer insights on military leadership, the army in general, or offer advice relating to cadet life beyond academics.

[191]  Inadequate funding to maintain the infrastructure. Reserve commissions. Not that I object in principle, because we all know that West Point graduates its fair share of duds who shouldn't be inflicted on soldiers. But it shows that the political and senior military leadership no longer views the Academy as especially unique--a dangerous and troubling trend that the academy seems not to be struggling to overturn. Don't write letters to congressmen about commissions; make damned sure your policies result in an institution that is so unique and valuable that its worth is self-evident.

[192]  West Point must continue its leadership position in today's Army.

[193]  See comments above.

[194]  Cut in authorized strength of the USCC.

[195]  Don't agree with the proposd new polic y of not commissioning graduates in the regular army immediately upon graduation.

[196]  The idea of eliminating the USMA band to save dollars seems penny wise and pound foolish. I can still remember the boost to morale it provided.

[197]  I believe that women are being treated preferentially - not only in the Academy, but in the Army as well - out of fear of having sexual harrassment charges brought.

[198]  Far to many to list in this forum. In gereral, I am concerned for the longevety of the corps.

[199]  No RA commissions for graduates--pls. fix to status quo ante.

[200]  I am sure that there are, but I am not aware of any at this time.

[201]  Attitudes - I can not be specific

[202]  -Reductions in budget dollars driving need for more fund-raising -"Don't ask/don't tell" very inappropriate for academy cadets & ROTC program -Still don't like the idea of the sky boxes/preferred seating and there is a feeling among many that some back room deal was brokered to sell this to enough to gain support; even though many grads do not support ... need to rethink this initiative carefully before moving forward

[203]  The current "don't ask - don't tell" policy is unacceptable. The policies regarding the Armed Forces mission in Bosnia (I realize that this is not really a mandate, however, the current administration does not seem to have established a clear mission for our Armed Forces in this region).

[204]  Impact of feminization of military Downsizing at the same time overall increase mission deployment Loss of junior officers due to extended deployments in peace time

[205]  The social experimentation in the Army and the Academy has led to dramatic deterioration of the Concept of duty, honor, country as defined hence reduced if not eliminated READINESS FOR WAR. Part of this is the RA commission, the size of the Academy and the requirements for a certain 5 of civilian instructors. I believe all were mandated.

[206]  Graduates not receiving a RA commission

[207]  See above, please

[208]  EXPLAINED ABOVE

[209]  We always here about the idea of closing West Point every year and because West Point is a historical institution I don't really give these screams alot of credibility.

[210]  I am concerned about the character of government officials in the administratiuon and in Congress. It does not bode well for the future. I am also concerned about the lack of emphasis on producing officers trained specifically for combat leadership. We don't do it well nowadays, and this is not good. We won't recognize it until we've lost soldiers on some future battlefield, then we'll play the blame game. Tragic.

[211]  I think that the mandate to have more Civilian instructors serverly impact the whole Army. Though Civilians are vital for the Academy. Army instructors provide not only insight to Cadtes on life in the Army and act as a role model, but they allow the Army to commit funds to further educate officers that will be leading the Army in the 21st Century. The education of officers in the Civilain Colleges is vital for the growth of the army in the information age, just as the Gernmans did in the interwar years. It allows growth that otherwise would be impossible to fund

[212]  Congressional mandate to require graduates to compete for RA commission on equal basis with other commission sources begs the question, "Is USMA different?"

[213]  Civilianization of the faculty Status of graduates OPMS XXI JODSF for grads who are Rhodes/Hertz/Marshall Scholars

[214]  The idea of only giving Grads reserve status to fulfill their service obligation and the annual discussion of whether service academies are necessary.

[215]  FUNDING!!!!

[216]  Periodic calls to do away with support for the military academies concern me.

[217]  The stated or implied concept of medical care for life for retirees needs to be addressed. It is a sham as currently structured, retirees shifting to Medicare/ Medicaid when achieving 65 or requsite financial condition. In short it has Not been the TRUTH that career soldiers have labored for. USMA and AOG in particular should support the Military Coalition efforts to insure that retirees can shift to the FEHBP program, like other federal retirees and CONGRESSMEN !

[218]  See above (#28)

[219]  Not really a mandate, but funding is always an issue. Especially, don't want graduates to feel that they must provide funding in order to keep the Academy running properly.

[220]  Funding

[221]  graduates should receive regular commissions

[222]  General cuts in Defense

[223]  Lack of funding for Academy.

[224]  Womwn in Combat. Obsession with homosexuals

[225]  Need to insure that there is an effective lobbying effort to keep the message and the mission in front of Congress and to keep the AOG aware of potential threats or funding cuts well ahead of decision points.

[226]  lack of RA commission

[227]  Our "quota system" for women and minoirities is diluting the standards and creating biases within the other cadets.

[228]  The ability for recent graduates to be relieved of their active duty service obligation prior to its completion, often as early as two years.

[229]  RA Commissions - perception by many grads that this is the first step along the road to ruin, where West Point becomes just another ROTC program, not cost effective, thus an easy target for budget cutters. Must actively prove that USMA grads provide what other sources cannot.

[230]  Only the movements that surface every so often that have as their purpose the elimination or combination of the Service Academies. One must consider the source, but we always have to be ready to defend our position.

[231]  Recent congressional action in the FY 1998 Defense Apropriations Bill to make commanders more accountable for and involved with conduct of their subordinates. The rational for this was the "decline of leadership" in the Army. I do not understand how eight years of downsizing Army leaders, with a personnel policy of retaining only the best, results in a smaller Army with weakened leadership.

[232]  Whether you like to admit it or not, female admission has lowered the standards of the academy; excessive concern for legalisms has blunted the desire & ability of grads to do their jobs. Raise the standards & toughen the course; reinstall an operating fourth-class system; get back to the discipline of an engineering curriculum. You've got a college on your hands now, not an Academy.

[233]  1. "Don't ask, Don't tell" -- enough said.

[234]  I think the President and Congress' troop deployments without establishing clear goals and objectives for each mission is terrible. To this day, I fail to see the importance of Bosnia or Haiti on US national interest. The only opportunity in the deployments, in my mind, is to continue to justify/test new weapon systems in the field. That's OK as long as everyone acknowledges it.

[235]  The stigma assigned to the assignment of teaching at West Point.

[236]  1. Given the recent friction between the Active force and the Guard and Reserve, how is this being addressed at the Academy? Times may have changed or my memory may have faded, but I don't recall this even being a consideration when I was a cadet. 2. The new APFT standards that are advertised as narrowing the gap between males and females sure as hell don't. What they do is make it harder for us old guys and easier for the young soldiers. This only exacerbates perceived inequities between males and females. Do the cadets currently test using Army standards or their own scale?

[237]  My biggest distress, however, is not something that West Point controls; and that is the end of the program of awarding a regular Army commission to graduates. It is tough for me to recommend West Point to a bright young prospect, when he/she has a good chance of being RIFed at any time in his/her career.

[238]  The "dumbing down" of the military in physical training, combat ethos, etc., etc., etc.

[239]  See above

[240]  Spending cuts hit the military hard, the Army harder, and USMA hardest of all. Congress and DoD seem to want USMA to do more with less, requiring the Supe and others to choose among equal spending priorities.

[241]  Elimination of RA commissions for graduates.

[242]  1. Lack of sufficient funding in all areas to keep West point abreast of the other Service Academies. 2. The mindless comparison of graduate retention and West Point's relevence in the face of repeated end strength drawdowns that afford opportunities for green lieutenants to leave before they have bonded with the Service. 3. Restraints on the Prep School that provides an extraordinary means to tailor the shape and character of the corps at relatively minimal cost.

[243]  I am concerned that the recent change in Basic Training for new soldiers, from co-ed to separate, will somehow be applied to the Academy (and other sources of commissioning). As a female graduate, I feel that it is necessary for officers to be trained in a "co-ed" environment. It is understandable that young enlistees may need that xtra barrier of protection, but this should not be applied to officer development.

[244]  The continued efforts to intigrate the Armed Forces, as regarding sex, without throughly thinking out, and recognizing the ligitimate differences between the sexes.

[245]  Lack of appropriated funds for the academy.

[246]  1) See 28 above. Political correctness is destructive. 2) USMA has been fairly successful in combating the civilianization of the academy (faculty, etc.) as proposed by various committees; must continue the fight to keep the military academy MILITARY. The best examples of what a professional officer should be that I saw as a cadet were the officer faculty members. My visit to USNA and its heavy civilian faculty helps explains why they seem to have more problems within their corps than USMA does.

[247]  Shrinking the size of Corps of Cadets - WP should be core source of commissioned officers and any shrinkage should come from other sources. Lack of Government Funding Civilian Instructors - prefer military Regular Commissions to all WP grads

[248]  We seem to be losing sight of what the military does for this country even in peace time. Part of this can be attributed to our President (US, not the AOG). Perhaps the AOG, USMA and others can do more to promote the military outside of the military itself. The Societies could help with this.

[249]  Of course the elimination of Regular Army commissions for the entire class remains troublesome, but I understand that issue is no longer open for negotiation. The risk, discussed above, is that West Point will be more easily viewed as another ROTC program.

[250]  I was surprised and disappointed to discover graduates are no longer automatically granted RA commissions. I realize the needs of the service has changed. However, I find that aspect hard to reconcile with the commitment asked of those attending the academy compared with other commissioning sources.

[251]  Congressional mandate on percentage of faculty that must be civilian.

[252]  Funding problems as enunciated at Society Leaders Conference

[253]  Budget mattters. Will fund raising impact what congress decides USMA needs to operate? Will congress off-load funding to grads?

[254]  1. Failure to live up to past promises relative to health care for retirees. 2. Failure of retired pay to keep pace with inflation and active duty pay increases.

[255]  I am very concerned about the erosion of barriers to homosexuals. I am somewhat concerned that continuing pressure to achieve parity for females will result in a cadet mix that doesn't reflect the need for combat leadership that is the only legitimate role for USMA.

[256]  My concern is that I am not aware of them!!!!

[257]  Any further civilianization of the faculty beyong the current 20-25%.

[258]  It is very important that USMA look to the future and determine what the leader of Army XXI and Army After Next requires and what leader developmental program changes need to be made to accomodate the needs of the future Army.

[259]  Lack of appropriate funding from Congress means USMA must become more like a civilian university and solicit gift funds to continue to operate at existing levels of excellence.

[260]  National Guard Combat Reform Initiative, contined within the '96 Defense Authorization Act which mandates a goal of 150 officers, between their 2nd and 3rd year of service, be allowed to resign and finish their service obligation in the National Guard. West Pointers are requesting a majority of the allocations.

[261]  - Women in combat/ women and men training together (not good) - US troops policing the world and dying/risking lives in areas failing to meet the "vital American interests" criteria (Somolia, Haiti, Bosnia) - An open homosexual's desire to serve (not a "right") vs all soldier's right to privacy in the barracks

[262]  Until President Jimmy Carter changed the rules, Cadet Pay was 1/2 of 2LT pay which allowed a Cadet to meet all of his bills at West Point and possibly have enough left over to either purchase or make large down payment on some rather expensive automobiles (I sure enjoyed that '64 Stingray). But the important thing was that the new Graduate was DEBT FREE. Mr Carter's action significantly reduced Cadet Pay to something less (I will admit ignorance of the revised schedule) such that new Graduates (I could be wrong) are significantly in debt and already well skilled in DEBT management at the very beginning of their careers. I may be overtaken by events, but Cadet Pay should be adequate for a Cadet to meet his/her bills while at West Point and graduate DEBT FREE. (Purchase of expensive sports car is not the intent of this suggestion.)

[263]  Not enough $$ for USMA...

[264]  1. Continued down-sizing of the Armed Forces is causing a corresponding attempt to down-size USMA. 2. The current Administration in Washington seems determined to undermine the military and Army, including USMA. 3. I am not as concerned as some about the Reserve Commission assignment for USMA grads, but that is something that should eventually be revisited.

[265]  Funding

[266]  The obvious lack of ethics demonstrated by the majority of our political leaders is in total contridiction to the values instilled at West Point. If this persists eventually a conflict will arise and given our motto DUTY, HONOR, COUNTRY our resolve to do the harder right could be our demise, I pray not!

[267]  I am opposed to quotas in any regard.

[268]  Cotinued funding cuts.

[269]  1. Pressure from politicians to make West Point grads more "sensitive."

[270]  For one, integrated training would appear to be instituted too quickly in the career development of soldiers. While I believe in both women in the Academy and the Army, more training at the Army level should be segregated until capabilites and desires are more accurately assessed. For another, there is too much emphasis placed on being a job in which to get money for additional education. I feel that this approach leads to a loss of commitment to the purpose of the Armed Services to protect and fight. Recent surveys have shown a disproportionate share of service members who would 'opt out' if faced with the prospect of combat. I would like to see the Army comprised of peaceloving professionals who are prepared to make the commitment required to protect our country and way of life. That may be too romantic an outlook, but that was philosophy when I enlisted, later attended the Academy, and attempted to prosecute my commission.

[271]  Budget Reserve Commissions vs RA

[272]  will the separation of barracks for male and female training (Nancy Kassembaum) affect anything at the acamdemy?

[273]  Acceptance of homosexual cadets/officers

[274]  Reserve officer status A Congress that does not understand USMA

[275]  multiple

[276]  the ones I am unaware of

[277]  differneces in standards between genders for PT and Height Weight Height Weight standards are too extreme PT Standards are too low Chemical readiness is very low in the Army and West Point is not helping by instilling the importance in their Cadets. They should be required to study these weapons in Chemistry class and should be required to study and practice the readiness excersises and techniques taught at the Chemical School.

[278]  The large and continuing reduction in Army size coupled with expanding deployments

[279]  I need to know the latest status of trying to make the academies a glorified ROTC program and a much reduced cost.

[280]  Reserve/Regular Army commissions Specialized undergraduate degrees

[281]  I concur with the Supe's position on Reserve commissions for graduates.

[282]  The overall use of the military for peacekeeping missions and the effect it is having on retention of our younger officers.

[283]  Not yet!

[284]  The deferral of regular army commissions

[285]  The Academy needs more funds to continue providing leaders of character for this nation.

[286]  Many , but to long to go into here - The Congress is corupted as well as the executive branch.. This spills over into DOD and then the mandatory reaction that the Army must follow the lead of the civilian leadership. The Army is abandoning its role of taking care of soldiers (to include retirees) Since the beginning of the the All Volunteer Force, we gone down hill in that soldiers serve and congress and the military leadership treat the force as paid employees. Duty, Honor, Country is passe in the Force.

[287]  € Inadequate for Infrastructure € Loss of RA commissions for graduates € Too many civilian (non-graduate) faculty members

[288]  Budget process and aproval

[289]  The entire downsizing concern.

[290]  See above.

[291]  I am concerned that the senior leadership of the Army seems more focused upon "politically correct" leadership than upon the good of the Army in the field. I am concerned that units are being "hollowed out" to portray a more capable force that actually exists. These perceptions are based upon what I have been told by friends and others still serving. I would like to know what is really the situation.

[292]  Policy concerning Regular Commissions

[293]  Women at West Point and Combat Arms

[294]  Too much attention to service and retirement benefits, rather than to the obligations of service

[295]  The change to a reserve commission. I believe that denigrates the value of an Academy education.

[296]  RA Commissions for Graduates

[297]  However, I am not aware of any mandates that USMA currently operates under. If I could see a list of these, I would be better prepared to answer this question.

[298]  Panel proposal that military segregate the sexes during initial training may affect the way we do Cadet Basic Training (CBT) I am for making CBT tougher, but genders must be integrated as we have been doing, in order for women to be accepted here.

[299]  length of service commitment (6 years) is discouraging to PARENTS of talented high schoolers who are important advisors in this process. this commitment should be realigned to be four years, making it consistent with ROTC, especially with all commissions now being reserve.

[300]  I'm sure there are many. Unfortunately, I am uninformed because of professional time constraints. The AOG Staff should identify these items and electronically call: "Attention to Orders"! I am currently employed at the Lawrence Livermore Laboratory as the High Explosives Facility Operations Manager. Our primary mission is to support the Science Based (Nuclear) Stockpile Stewardship Program. As such, I see the effects of an administration which does not (apparently) appreciate the value of a strong national defense. I am very concerned about the security of our nation. Maintaining a quality Army with a superior officer core is a key component in our national defense that must be maintained if we are to prevail as a nation and ensure the survival of freedom.

[301]  Downsizing of US Army Reserve.

[302]  * "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" and all it's implications upon trust and comeraderie among units in the Army.

[303]  The movement to eliminate the Service Academies. The failure to directly commission RA upon graduation.

[304]  There are indications that the military is diverging from the population with respect to ethics and values. I don't want to see us as an elitist group but at the same time I want those values of Duty, Honor, and Country to have an impact on our population. The AOG should take a leadership position in this area.

[305]  RA commissions civilian professors service obligation

[306]  West Point Grads having to compete with ROTC on even basis at graduation (no earlier date of ranking given for more difficult experience)

[307]  ditto, letter followup

[308]  See 28

[309]  Increased use of civilian instructors.

[310]  But, I'm out of time right now.

[311]  Army (not West Point) leadership is apparently not making the case for the viability of the Academy with the Congress/Congressional Staff. If West Point does not have the support of the Congress, the leadership has failed and WP is in jeopardy.

[312]  clinton

[313]  See 28. Closer cooperation among the Service Academies may be able to demonstrate movement toward a unified/Joint US military that was not achieved with the latest QDR or the recomendations of the NDP.

[314]  When I graduated from West Point, I was eager and ready to be a leader. When I was in the Army, I felt stifled and bored. The Army did not allow me the challenges and opportunities that I felt I could get elsewhere. I strongly believe the Army fails West Point graduates. We want autonomy, challenge, responsibility, and a chance to make a difference. When you see all the younger grads leaving the Army, they are leaving for these reasons. The problem is so large I don't even know how to begin addressing a solution in a short survey. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions about the answers to my survey.

[315]  - don't ask, don't tell - graduates receiving Reserve Commissions

[316]  I cannot give specifics, but my broad concern is that the number one priority of the Army and West Point has shifted away from combat effectiveness.

[317]  Building aircraft/ships, etc. we do not need while 30,000 military families are on welfare (assuming the latter is correct)

[318]  1. Force Structure reductions 2. Male/Female integration in Basic Training 3. Extended deployment of U.S. forces

[319]  There are different performance standards for different groups within the Academy, but only one Oath of Office and one level of expectation that the nation has for the level of excellence of its military leaders.

[320]  Dissolution of the Regular Army--which I see as a big step towrd the dissolution of the Academy itself. I begin to sound like a right-wing Fud--which I am not--but my thirty-four years in the RA,as S/Sgt,Cadet, and Officer means a lot to me. It has been my life with its attendant strains on my family--and now we are prepared to throw it away for, for what ?

[321]  Loss of Regular Army commissions for graduates. If these are not designated "regulars", than pray tell, who is?

[322]  Every single appointment decision to the Academy has the potential to be crucial for the future of this country. Any candidate could become a critical leader in a pivotal conflict... so it would be interesting and helpful to know the criteria which each individual member of Congress uses to select cadets and midshipmen. Over the years I have been asked about the political "pull" required to obtain an appointment, with the implication being that candidates with "connections" are selected. People perceive that such practices exist. If they exist, either blatantly or subtly, then the academy is not receiving the optimal raw material, and the country is not being served. The AOG, which is not an operational entity of the Academy could possibly be a very good vehicle to pursue this matter.

[323]  recent changes regarding integrated training in the military. how iwll that effect USMA.

[324]  Not giving RA commissions to WP Grads upon graduation. Should be reinstated. Estimated cost of the four years at WP, as used by congress, and others, should be reduced or changed to reflect the give-back of service.

[325]  Overall level of support for academy

[326]  The elimination of the Regular Commission for new graduates is a very serious one and the spin put on it by the Supe at the last West Point Societies Presidents meeting was sickening. To state that the commanders in the field had seen no evidence of any problem because of the new law was totally misleading. There is no way that they would know if there was an effect since the first class wasn't in the field as of July 1997.

[327]  BUDGET CUTS!!

[328]  The growing sense of dissonance between the military and the national conscience. This is increasingly reflected in the questioning and micromanagement of what were once traditional areas preserves of military policy and procedures.

[329]  "Norming" of promotions across all commissioning sources. Don't want USMA grads to be favored - just don't want them restricted to a percentage or quota of promotables.

[330]  The West Point product is tremendously more expensive than the ROTC & OCS alternative. As such, graduates must perform better, serve more faithfully, and contribute considerably more--inorder to justify the greater tax payer expense. What happens when the tax payers discover that today's West Pointers are not appreciably better performers, resign their commissions at rates equal to or higher than the souther commissioning sources, and don't contribute any more than their ROTC or OCS contemporaries? Producing officers is a business. The competition is keen and West Points today are not worth what they cost.

[331]  Size of the Corp vs. size of the Forces.

[332]  Don't know! Policy mandates usually follow considersble debate, analysis, advice and consent! Possibly not well informed on any of these matters, even though all discussions are supposed to become part of the public record unless classified for national defense reasons. This question probably reflects substantial political innuendo. The AOG could help keep the membership informed on these matters. What Congressional Committes delve into USMA affairs? Do these committees have web pages where their activities get routinely posted? More and better service could be provided in this area!

[333]  Not sure

[334]  In conversations with classmates still in the military, there is concern about the downsizing of the military while at the same time overseas commitments increase (Bosnia, Macedonia, Somalia). The strain on family life brought on by these extended tours makes it more difficult to retain quality officers.

[335]  Go back to RA Commissions

[336]  Funding for the academy; proposals to eliminate or merge the academies

[337]  The elimination of RA appointments for all USMA grads.

[338]  The current level of Defense funding presents particular challenges to the Academy in maintaining the West Point experience which makes our "education" unique.

[339]  The failure to recognize the sacrifice of four years at the Academy when compared to to ROTC or OCS so far as a Regular Army commission is concerned.

[340]  1.POLITICAL CORRECTNESS 2. DITTO 3. DITTO

[341]  Regular commissioning process, women in combat.

[342]  Any cutbacks in funding always concern me.

[343]  increased service obligation

[344]  Funding,reserve commisions

[345]  The commissioning process, and the funding situations must be examined closely by Congress in order to maintain the path the Academy has followed for almost 200 years.

[346]  Can not give specifics due to pure ignorance on my part.But the attempts to ease standards is unacceptable.

[347]  All Grads should be regular officers. So should all c. I realize this is not going to change anytime soon.

[348]  DA implementation of RA commissioning

[349]  Political correctness, denigration of combat arms, increased civilianization of faculty....

[350]  DA implementation of RA commissioning Law.

[351]  I believe that the 4 class system is an improvement but the "4th Class System" went a long way in term of instilling discipline.

[352]  The Army leadership's failure to address declining readiness levels in the force has led to unethical behavior throughout the officer corps as commanders try to accomplish too many missions with limited resources. No one in the Army leadership ever talks to the force about integrity or ethics.

[353]  Not requiring graduates to enter the Army on active duty. Reserve commissions should be reserved for ROTC graduates. Various recommendations by Congressional members to close the Academy in favor of ROTC and OCS.

[354]  i think any attempt to further civilianize the faculty to meet some congressionally mandated goals is a mistake. again it is putting west point on the trail to being a super rotc program and not the unique educational and military experience it has been in the past.

[355]  Attempts to close USMA

[356]  The commissioning of USMA graduates as Reserve officers, rather than RA. The continued underfunding of USMA requirements, such that the WPF is expected to make up the shortfalls in areas that were previously supported through appropriated funds.

[357]  Women at the Academy. I know there's nothing we can do about it, but I think it has had a monumental negative impact on the reason for USMA's existence and its viability for the future. I supported the change throughout my career because it was the law of the land and I wanted to be a constructive element for USMA. I still want to believe that the American people want this and it's the right thing for America, but over the years I have concluded that I'm kidding myself about it. I DO NOT believe that it's the right thing to do.

[358]  USMA needs to continue to prove its value added over ROTC and other commissioning

[359]  I have reservations about the direction of the military, in general. I am not familiar with the "mandates" on USMA, but I suspect that many of my concerns with the military are reflected in the ideals of USMA.

[360]  I am deeply concerned about the gradual but steady erosion of the image of West Point, as demonstrated in the end of RA commissions, the talk (whether substantive or not) of closing, and the rising perception that West Point is "just another ROTC college."

[361]  The need to economize is without question the backbone behind many decisions. My concern: does the West Point officer set a "priceless" standard for all officers. My observations of West Point 2LT's does not always indicate the West Point commission is hands down better than other commissioning sources. This is not good.

[362]  Down sizing of our armed forces

[363]  The continued erosion of retirement and medical benifits for retirees has loosened the social contaract that used to exist between the Republic and its officer and non-commissioned officer corps. This, over time, could impinge negatively on the academy.

[364]  I'm not sure of many, but the whole issue of female cadets (and female soldiers and officers in general) is one better solved by excluding them. On other issues, again, most of what I have heard is hearsay.

[365]  Congressional position on Regular Army commissions DA application of this mandate, which made the matter worse Army Secretariat pressure on Honor Code enforcement

[366]  Current national policies regarding homosexuals in the military is a grave concern for West Point. Given the current climate, mandates for recruiting homosexuals for USMA are the next step. This will be a grave problem.

[367]  I am opposed to the civilianization of the faculty.

[368]  See #28, above.

[369]  The budget.

[370]  As i see the academy become more and more like other comission sources, I wonder how long it will be able to be funded in our downsizing military

[371]  "Don't tell policy" How can you have a policy which is in direct contravention to honesty. I can not square this policy with the ideals and traditions of the Academy.

[372]  Insufficient funding for facilities Lack of Regular Army Commission

[373]  Composition of faculty

[374]  The loss of the Regular Army Commission.

[375]  I would like the Academies to return to a combat arms and small unit leadership emphasis - even more so than when I was a cadet. My interpretation of the changes over the past years is that the military aspect of the Academy has been de-emphasized way too much in favor of academics. I believe the primary job of WP is to prepare effective combat leaders - not lawyers or engineers.

[376]  Decreasing emphasis on affirmative action programs may cause a significant decline in the pool of available minority students for accession into West Point. I would consider developing a program to increase this pool to maintain qualified applicants.

[377]  Do you seriously believe that our elected officials have the slightest clue as to the ideals of the Academy or that they are in the least truly interested in its welfare? Throughout our history as a nation, the military (and all of its institutions) have been pawns of our elected officials. The pendulum consistently swings from need to disdain. We are merely witnessing one more swing of that pendulum. Hopefully the Academy (and our nation) will survive it.

[378]  Congressional questions on the value of the Academy require very serious reasoned replies.

[379]  THE CUTS IN THE BUDGET FOR THE ACDADEMY.

[380]  The continued focus on the feminization of the services, with standards of performance being lowered. This has to have a detrimental impact on our force's readiness.

[381]  SAME AS ABOVE. FEMALES HAVE CHANGED THE ENTIRE SYSTEM , AND IT SEEMS THE GOALS AS WELL

[382]  My response in item 28 applies. I am afraid that the insidious shift of West Point from providing RA officers prepared for combat leadership in the frontlines to a liberal, politically correct non-RA oriented student body is about to destroy the need for a USMA. I believe that the AOG can provide the point leadership to help guide West Point back to the mission for which I believe it was intended-to train a hard corps of professional career combat leaders as a national resource.

[383]  Service obligations. Status of RA officers in shrinking force. Regulation of the Academy operations.

[384]  I don't like USMA grads not getting RA commissions...there is a definite difference between WP grads and ROTC grads and it should be reflected in their status

[385]  See the above comments. The areas where congress does not see it as their area of concern,

[386]  Technical issues that I will express to the appropriate officials at the proper time.

[387]  The policy calling for reserve commissions for USMA graduates is extremely troubling. It further narrows the observable difference between USMA graduates and those from ROTC and other sources, and could cause decision-makers to question why the nation spends so much more for USMA grads.

[388]  The policy of now granting only a AUS commission, instead of a RA commission was one of the dumbest things that our congress ever did. If you have to put up with the crap that USMA dishes out and the lack of civilian privileges that people going to ROTC programs can enjoin in return for the education at USMA, then why should graduates not be entitled to a RA commission for the time they are on active duty? NROTC scholarship recipients get basically the same benefits as USMA people get and they do not have to put with the rules and regulations for four years that people at USMA do, why can't academy people (any academy) at least be entitled to a Regular commision upon graduation? I realize AOG can't answer this, and it is due to the idiots that the American people have elected to Congress (most of whom never served in uniform, like our illustrious Wimp-in Chief-Mr. Clinton).

[389]  The AOG and its graduates are out of touch with the reasons causing so many younger graduates to leave the Army after 5 years or earlier. The many changes (retirement, VA, medical, etc., etc.)that have occurred over the last 15-20 years makes the Army a very different place. Not a single USMA general stood up to counter any of these changes. Yet, they are the ones who will likely scream about attrition. Thus, my opinion re the reduction of generals on the BOT.

[390]  1. West Point appears to be bending to too many political pressures. Must continue to "educate" political leaders on the value of the institution to the nation. Value can be judged simply on "officer production." This should be a fundamental role of AOG.

[391]  See 28. Also, I understand that USMA graduates do not get Regular Army commissions upon graduation. That is absurd. AOG should work to reverse that decision.

[392]  General lack of appreciation for the Academy and its mission as evidenced in budget cutbacks and other attempts to diminish the importance of West Point.

[393]  Reduce Corps Size Graduate to the Combat Arms and direct Support Branches only. Return Regular Commission upon graduation Reinstate the Department of Military Psychology and Leadership. Behavioral Science belongs at Johns Hopkins. Restore Plebe Christmas and close order drill. The last time I saw a parade on the plain, it was really amateurish.

[394]  Regular Commission policy

[395]  budget cutbacks, the decreasing "warrior" attitude that is being professed at USMA. Sensitivity training can only go so far before it begins to erode the warfighting attitude of the American soldier

[396]  Lack of guranteed health care. Removal of guarnteed RA commission and thus grads leaving active duty within 2 years.

[397]  Medical care for active and retired Retired pay/raises figured to decrease ones retirement benefit

[398]  The reduction of the standing army and the implications of that reduction for USMA and the Nation.

[399]  Continued drawdown means size will need to be reduced; Drive to civilian faculty is misdirected

[400]  I am very concerned with the reduction of funds appropiated each year to the military. I know that as congress and executive decisons continue to restrict funds for the military; the cadets themselves are restricted to achieving the best they can. I never experienced the severe cutbacks the cadets have today.

[401]  I am still concerned about the occasional discussion of abolishing the Regular Army commission of Academy graduates. I sincerely believe that the West Point experience provides a solid foundation for new lieutenants that can not be replicated by the ROTC program.

[402]  There should be a separate regiment for female cadets. That's not really a government mandate, but I didn't think it would fit in with Category 28.

[403]  IMPROVING THE RETENTION IN THE SERVICE OF MORE GRADUATES

[404]  Loss of RA Commissions Downsizing of the Corps

[405]  None that I'm aware of.

[406]  See above.

[407]  Loss of regular commissions for graduates. Impact of women on the Academy.

[408]  Currently, Title 11 requires the active army to transfer a minimum of 150 lieutenants (with 2-3 years of service) to the reserve component each year. This is done regardless of source of commission. West Point graduates routinely take this route, leaving the active army prior to the end of their active committment. This severely undermines the committment of academy graduates. The law should be changed to restrict USMA graduates from leaving under this program prior to the end of their active committment. If not possible, then the Army implementation should limit USMA graduate participation.

[409]  Payback service commitment length -- is there a decrease in interest to attend West Point???

[410]  Justification to Congress and the Administration of the "value" of the USMA experience and education

[411]  the loss of Regular Army status by graduates

[412]  The general trend toward the reduction of the academies and increase of ROTC promotion

[413]  I believe that USMA graduates should be commissioned in the Regular Army. I will be happy to discuss this further.

[414]  The Army/Military is not a place for social reform This "how do you feel about it" social experiment will get a lot of people killed in the next conflict.

[415]  See above. Change in training for males and females could have a dramatic impact. The civilainization of the faculty is also passed the functional--there is alot ofvalue for active duty officers in the classroom.

[416]  1. The growing (as incredulous as it seems in light of current policy) emphasis on diversity. 2. Continued "downsizing" of the military leads many elected officials to USMA's value. The continued slide away from absolute values (duty, honor, country) or, rather, the lack of concensus as to what these mean, may lead some to question USMA's relevance.

[417]  -"Don't ask, don't tell" -Graduation with a reserve commission -Too high a percentage of civilian faculty

[418]  Lack of RA commissioning for USMA and ROTC DMG's. Potential future pushes to increase the service commitment of graduates.

[419]  Regular commissions, branch allocation, combat arms detailing for all cadets who are medically qualified for the combat arms but who go to CS/CSS branhes.

[420]  I'd rather not see USMA abolished by act of Congress.

[421]  1. The current policy on homesexuals in the military is wrong and will hurt readiness. 2. The current policy of integrating women into many combat arms specialties.

[422]  Loss of automatic Regular Army Commissions

[423]  1. Congressional authorization to enter "women" into the Academy. 2. Congressional pressure to eliminate the Military Academies.

[424]  1) Concern about polical correctness impacting the right thing to do. Case of Lt Flynn (USAF) and her initial congressional support comes to mind. USAF still discharged her and stood their ground. I'm sure USMA would do the same, but would need AOG backing.

[425]  USMA graduates not receiving Regular Army commissions.

[426]  I keep hearing rumors about considering closing or consolidating the Academies. I would like to be kept apprized of any such initiatives and would help in any way to retain USMA as a national resource.

[427]  Role of women in the military. Needs intense debate and evaluation....very hard to do in this political climate. I am an "old grad", but commanded units with women, and am not convinced that they should have combat roles, nor that they deserve public funding as cadets. There is significant impact on military readiness already, and the debate must be joined.

[428]  The same as above.

[429]  Same as I've said before. I feel that West Point isn't as tough as it used to be. The touchy-feely crowd is in control (and I am a psychologist.) I fear civilianization and reduction to an ROTC program. Trendy, politically-correct issues dominate.

[430]  Too long to comment on. Most of Usma's problems come from outside pressure and the brass in the army and at WP don't have the guts to stop it. The last leader to fall on his sword was Jim Gavin. We need more like him

[431]  Reduced budget requires greater effort in fund raising.

[432]  1. Reduced funding 2. No Regular Army commissions

[433]  See comments above. Proper role for women in military while protecting/excluding them from combat.

[434]  I am concerned with the current government attitude about reducing the size of our military, the inability to understand the military's purpose during periods of perceived peace, and the impact of this on funding and confidence in the Academy.

[435]  Giving Reserve commissions from USMA

[436]  We need to make sure that the ideals and goals of West Point are not watered down by political/social fads. Tradition, honor, and the military ethic are what make WP different and strong. I DON'T WANT it to be just another college, only with uniforms.

[437]  I have great concern that as we raise funds for the Academy, Congress will make corresponding cuts in funds made available. There is more but again, do not have the time right now to respond.

[438]  1. Not giving Regular Army commissions upon graduation

[439]  Failure by Army, DOD, to push for regular commissions for service academy graduates upon graduation.

[440]  Discussions concerning the future existence of the academies

[441]  The awarding of reserve rather than regular commissions.

[442]  None of the above have a clue, either.

[443]  - Aforementioned commissioning issue - Change in number of years of mandatory service which will only lead to erosion of public support for funding of the Academy because the "free education" will be viewed as a welfare program - Staffing of the Department of the Army with individuals who obviously are devoid of military service experience and seek to drive the Army closer to their personal vision of a politically-correct police force. These individuals are easily identifiable by their lack of historical perspective, their misinterpretation of inter-service rivalry, and their general ignorance of role of our founding fathers' intentions for the military's role in defending our republic.

[444]  Being a non-graduate and so much time passing from when I was a cadet at West Point, worried about the welfare of the Academy and how military and civilian interests view it. With the three most recent Chief of Staff of Joint Chiefs (from Army) not being West Pointers, I visualize a lack of importance on West Point's training and character in those officers from whom candidates could be selected. Worry that this is an indication that government officials feel an officer from ROTC background is as solid as West Point's regimen. Having been in ROTC at Wake Forest College (at time I was there they were still a college) and then attending West Point, there is no similarity. Also concerned that funding and even existence of Academy may be affected by this mindset. I very much see the need and importance of continuing a West Point as strong or stronger than what I experienced while there. Also concerned that academic personnel may now be more from civilian institutions than graduates of West Point. Not an intellectual, but if USMA is made to more like other schools, is it not dooming itself to distinction? How can it justify expense of continuing if education there is more like the other colleges which have ROTC? Government sources could then see need to roll back funding. After all, we now are viewing in this time of history, where more graduates are created than can be used in Army in its scaled back posture. My personal conviction is that we as a nation need a strong Army now, but certainly need to continue to produce strong disciplined and character oriented graduates for now and the future. How many times in the past has our nation had to play catch up to protect its interests. At a time of supposed peace, it is easy for a society to be lulled into feeling the need to cut back a standing military force. I view a strong military deterent as an insurance policy. You don't want to have to use it, but it is good to have it available when needed. I guess you can see my sentiment is strongly West Point even though I did not graduate. Had I not been supportive of West Point, I would not have so rigorously sought to become a cadet. Thanks for allowing me this time and space to share my thoughts. This type of inovative spirit from West Point (AOG) continues to impress me with its mission. Keep up the great work! Just personal concerns. This could also affect the amount of giving institution might receive from graduates and business in open solicitation.

[445]

[446]  Although I am no longer closely monitoring current Congressional initiatives, I am continually amazed at the lack of recognition and awareness that Congressional and other highly placed public officials have of the Academies and the contribution that they make to the Armed Services. I felt like the academy graduates I dealt with were consistently and, as a group, more professional and more dedicated than non-academy graduates. (Obviouly there were exceptions.) Perhaps the AOG should do more to educate (lobby) our represenatives.

[447]  Yes-- all those which bear on the issue above at #28. The continuing shift away from the combat leadership and military service ethos so strong in the past. Perhaps the first erosion was the broadening to more than the traditional five branches eligibility on graduation. MI was an early one? Now AG?

[448]  Elimination of one or more of the academies

[449]  Rumors of making USMA another essentially ROTC "college" would diminish the purpose and mission.

[450]  see comments in 28 above about shrinking the core.

[451]  I believe that we as an an instituiton have lost the support and commitment of our leaders at the Executive and Legislative levels of government. Certainly it is a lot cheaper to access officers from civilain or OCS sources.

[452]  Continued decreases in funding and the continued over the "high" cost of the education(why not all ROTC)

[453]  The Defense of our country seems to have been dismantled after Desert Storm. I'm not sure what capability we have left. I am particularly concerned with the difficulty the Air Force and the Navy are having in retaining pilots.

[454]  I've heard that the concept of eliminating all the service academies has been entertained by certain members of Congress. I think that would be a tragic mistake.

[455]  Fire the Current Commander in Chief

[456]  1) Increasing the role of women in the combat specialties. 2) Increasing the role of the RC at expense of AC due to ability of RC to lobby more effectively rather than due to real facts or logic.

[457]  Commissioning as non-Regular Army

[458]  I still do not agree with the change to eliminate RA appointments for West Point graduates.

[459]  Affirmative Action, Females in military, gays in military

[460]  National Defense and "preparedness" issues concerns me; specifically, continued "downsizings" and base closures. I am afraid the US can not support two major wars simultaneously from the "people" and "logistics" point of view; West Point is part of the "people" concern. We need to keep a steady flow of leaders for combat, regardless of a "high-tech" downsized Army mentality. History repeats itself and we were downsized many times before with dire consequences!

[461]  1. Funding 2. Interaction of junior officers with NCOs (i.e., teaching thereof)

[462]  Women at the Academy and in the combat arms.

[463]  The lowering of the physical standards to accommodate the female cadets.

[464]  Funding cuts

[465]  Feminization of the Cadet Corps (i.e. emasculation without Supe's objections).

[466]  See #28 - The whole idea of political correctness. The "nice Army" concept which started in the late 80's. It's not a nice business. Further the integration of women in the training process. When you put women and men together, men will be men - to ask or expect them not to be is ridiculous. While much media splash has been made regarding sexual harassment, the simple fact is that if someone takes offense at something that where offense was unintended then that's the individuals problem. Furhter allowing the feminists of the world to dictate policy such that the ability of the Amry to accomplish it's mission is compromised is unconscionable. I won't argue that women deserve to be in the military, however admission standards for each particular function need to be standard. If a woman can compete on an even playing field and perform to standard - then she has earned the right to do the job (combat or not). To degrade the standards to allow inclusion for women in the name of political correctness only serves to jeopardize the army's ability to complete it's mission. Completion of the mission should be the only goal - one that cannot be accomplished by being nice.

[467]  Have not studied enough to answer

[468]  Base closures, resulting lack of readiness/preparedness, women in the combat forces (see #28), "socialization" of the armed services, et c.I

[469]  The loss of the Regular Commission upon graduation. I believe that DoD should immediately make an effort to regain the authority for Regular Commissions for all Service Academies. I believe the Hill climate is more favorable since Sen Nunn and his chief staffer have departed.

[470]  I am concerned about the occasional rumblings from Congress questioning the "need" for the Academy. While I realize that this is nothing new, it disturbs me to hear it.

[471]  Military drawdown. The number of personnel on active and reserve duty has reached, in my opinion, the absolute minimum that is necessary to perform the missions we face given the propensity for minor conflicts/contingencies isolated from one another and the "near war" conditions in such places. West Point must continue to provide the core of the professional armed forces--other programs, such as ROTC, should be drawn down faster than the Academy. West Pointers should be offered some measure of protection (probably a poor choice of words) against the drawdowns in that they have volunteered to attend not only a challenging academic institution, but have volunteered to adopt a different lifestyle than their ROTC counterparts. They have set their sights early on a demanding profession and have basically "sacrificed" college life to enter that profession with the highest possible credentials. On the whole, West Pointers are better prepared to accept the demands placed on them than the average 2LT, and they accept those demands. Providing some measure of comfort in the knowledge that you aren't going to receive the same Reserve commission and be asked to depart from the active duty military before you're ready or not even be allowed to serve more than your "one weekend a month..." is not too much to ask.

[472]  ref above

[473]  Not Sure

[474]  I am concerned about the handling of regular commissions in the armed forces. I takes away yet another tie which helps keep graduates in the armed forces for a career.

[475]  Any move to eliminate or further reduce any of the service academies would be a very detrimental blow to the nation and its military organizations.

[476]  Homosexuality - current administration really pushing to make this a part of the armed forces.

[477]  Reduced funding.

[478]  The suggested elimination of the academies. The appointment of reserve commissions.

[479]  The ever-increasing push to include women in combat units

[480]  Regular Army commissions "Civilianization" of the Faculty "Femininization" of the Army

[481]  I am worrid about federal funding. I think congress needs to understand that West Point is MUCH bigger than just an officer training school. It develops leaders of character for all aspects of life in this wonderful country.

[482]  I still believe that the change of focus from leadership training for combat and combat support branches was a mistake. Also, the inclusion of females dilutes and compromises the mission of the academy.

[483]  Failure to give a regular commission at graduation

[484]  Draw down and OOTW are having sever impacts on retention rates and with the direction the USMA mission is going, this means failure for USMA mission.

[485]  Efforts to reduce or close the academies

[486]  1. The entire issue of Women in Combat(not women in the Army). This issue is of course not within the Academy's purview but needs to be addressed Nationally. 2. The religious education issue, i.e., military commanders are still responsible for ensuring that their soldiers' religious needs are met, yet it is possible for a cadet to be commissioned without ever having been exposed to any religion or having had any personal religious experience or training. 3. Recognizing that the Regular Commission does not have the same tenure provisions that it used to have, it still makes sense to commission USMA cadets (and ROTC DMGs) in the Regular Army as a recognition of their additional commitment and/or achievement.

[487]  I've hear the Superintendent talk before about funding shortages and their impact on infrastructure maintenance, etc.

[488]  I said no because the question referred to "mandates." If it had said implications or trends, that would be a different matter.

[489]  Not aware of any since the OTRA commissioning.

[490]  I am opposed to this federal administration's policy on homosexuality in the armed forces.

[491]  DA makes it too easy for grads to break their committment.

[492]  Attempts to outsource the functions of the service Academies. Not giving regular army commissions to greaduates.

[493]  Cadets should be commissioned in the regular army. Congress should repeal that dumb law that they passed.

[494]  no regular commisions[probably brought about by some disgruntled Hill "staffer the entire military too much focused on solving social pro

[495]  see 28

[496]  graduates now do not enter active service as regular army commissioned officers---

[497]  Efforts on part of some of Congress and outside agencies to abolish the svc academies. Present policy on Regular Army for graduates.

[498]  The Army at large is becoming too politicized, and West Point more so.

[499]  Budget cuts - asking for donations is crazy. We are talking West Point. Leaders should prioritize based upon sound decisions.

[500]  Regular commissions. I have gotten to the point where my health -- or lack of it -- requires me to choose where I spend my time and attention, so I have not followed closely any service news or gossip over the past several months. I am under the impresssion that Army has withdrawn the use of regular commissions for USMA and distinguished ROTC grads. I think that is a mistake. There should be a difference, else why should someone elect to to take the long path to their goal.

[501]  I am very concerned about the indications that graduates will no longer receive regular commissions. I consider that a blatant slap in the face of an institution that has served its country with great honor, dedication and sacrifice for two centuries.

[502]  The constant feminization of the services that began with the Carter Administration which has eroded the combat readiness and morale of the military forces. The downsizing of the strength and budget of the military forces to the point where would not be able to fight another Gulf War at this time. Open-ended committment of our forces in Bosnia by the most corrupt and worst administration in U.S. history with no clearly defined "National Interest". Talk to the troops in Germany just back from Bosnia and get the real story - the morale is low from constant deployments. You will not see it from the "photo-ops" of Clinton. The inability of our top military leadership in Washington to stand up and fight to correct the stupid policies of the Clinton Administration concerning the military. We seem to have a bunch of wimps not willing to fight our battles to keep the military strong..

[503]  SEE ANSWER TO #28

[504]  See 28 above.

[505]  As an "old Grad" the things that concern me are those same things that are reflected in our society. To conform, don"t make a wave, don't set your standards too high and get the boss in trouble, these are a few of the things that concern me. We do not seem to have pride in setting higher standards that the rest, " to choose the harder right", ... "and never be content with the half truth if the whole can be won". I hope that what I am saying does not need further explanation because it is taught by example and passed down the "long gray line". I hope the flow has not been interupted for political necessity, career advancement, kow -tow'ing to the politicans or activists of what ever gender or type.

[506]  WOMEN IN THE MILITARY; WOMEN AT WEST POINT

[507]  As the DoD is down sized, it is unrealistic to not plan for the better use of West Point capital investments. Work to bring Army War College, etc to West Point to better utilized facilities.

[508]  Women in Combat. Thank the Lord I am retired!!

[509]  The Army's weight policy is counterproductive to recruiting and retaining Academy athletes. The Army needs to be realistic. All Army officers will not look like Fred Astaire; nor do we want them to. The Army needs officers who are physically fit not clones.

[510]  No automatic RA commissions. Commissions in other than combat and combat support branches.

[511]  Early relese for graduates does not make sense; if the country doesn't need active duty officers the pipeline should be reduced; transferring to the reserves in 2 or 3 years is a waste of resources

[512]  Graduates receiving Reserve commissions. Continued research into the "need" of the Academies.

[513]  See above re: women. (You're going to get some heavy duty emotion on this one, though.)

[514]  Status of Commissioning Funding Corps Size

[515]  See Question 28, above.

[516]  Not "in the loop," except for what can be found in the Supe's correspondence or in TROA.

[517]  See 28, above

[518]  Congressional pressures to close the academy or reduce/eliminate its government financial backing because of DoD budgetary pressures.

[519]  I am concerned about the change in policy which does not provide Regular commissions for graduates upon graduation.

[520]  Financial support to the military and military quality of life programs

[521]  See 28

[522]  1. The usual one of exactly what do our rulers want from the Academy. 2. The problem of females in the Corps. Have we compromised too much to assure their success? This is, perhaps, an Army-wide problem. 3. The question of graduating a cadet and commissioning him as a reserve officer. 4. Is the dedication and desire to serve as strong today in the average cadet as it was, say, 50 years ago?

[523]  I believe it was a mistake to do away with the general order of merit of the graduating class. This was a demotivating action. It tends to exalt the lowest common denominator approach, and I don't believe that is what West Point is all about. The General Order of Merit should be reinstituted, in my view.

[524]  Army manpower downsizing

[525]  REDUCTION & ELINMINATION OF RETIREE'S BENEFITS & MEDICAL ASSISTANCE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[526]  lack of guaranteed RA commission max AD obligation should be 5 years, preferably 4 years

[527]  REDUCTION & ELINMINATION OF RETIREE'S BENEFITS & MEDICAL ASSISTANCE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[528]  It's my "feeling," (not necessarily based on fact) that continued budget cuts are causing the AOG to ask me for funding of USMA projects. I'd like to be sure that my gifts are going toward the programs that make West Point a college and not toward facility maintenance, which should be funded as any other army post.

[529]  Integration of the sexes on an intimate living relationship during military training; as explained above.

[530]  The granting of only Reserve Commissions lessens the reward for paying a price from not going to a "party school" and coming out with the same commission.

[531]  GRADUATE EARLY OUT PROGRAMS SHOULD BE STOPPED!!!

[532]  Don't know enough about the situation to comment here.

[533]  Very concerned about the lack of RA comission.

[534]  SEE #28

[535]  Loss of RA status for grads at graduation.

[536]  Too many people in government, without military and combat experience place political needs above defense security needs. Respected, retired military leaders do not band together to voice the bitter lessons of past American unpreparedness. The AOG should have a role here.

[537]  The ambivalence of women in the military being assigned to roles in combat units. Politicians should have no say in this - their garnering votes to make to make voters happy will not help in the event of a major show down with a capable enemy.

[538]  Separation of men and women. Soldiers of both genders must learn to live and fight together. It is unacceptable to separate men and women professionally in the service or civilian life.

[539]  Regular commission status

[540]  I still believe that graduates should receive Regular Commissions

[541]  see above

[542]  Budgetary pressure, regular commissions, and (in my opinion) a lack of real support at high levels in the Army.

[543]  Under the guise of politics, I see the conduct of our nations leaders as being in conflict with the ideals that should be instilled in new graduates. That comes out VALUES in most any language: selflessness, honesty and integrity are at the forefront.

[544]  lack of regular commission

[545]  Not aware of all relevant mandates which affect USMA or Grads...would like to see such information passed along via email or web page in order to make Grads aware of those issues.

[546]  There continues to be a segment of Congress that is hostile to the service academies and like to see them weakened or dismantled. We need to be ever vigilant to these threats.

[547]  Downsizing personnel or force size to allocate dollars for force modernization may be too extreme to meet the missions outlined in the current National Military Strategy. The current emphasis on US Army Reserve forces to augment active duty missions is stretching the capabilities of both active and reserve component military leadership. Maintaining or slowing the pace of "people" reductions must be a goal of the AOG. Strong, professional leaders produced by USMA is vital to long term future success that is being reduced by the short term emphasis on the "peace dividend."

[548]  Women at West Point

[549]  Relieving Cadets of their obligatory service requirement as part of the drawdown of force was a mistake.

[550]  RESERVE COMMISSIONS

[551]  No RA on graduation, Women at the academy and others .

[552]  see above re: professors and funding

[553]  USMA graduates should not be offered the option of Resreve Commissions (as I understand the new program), they should be RA and give back to the Army in time what they secured by attending USMA.

[554]  Tending to down grade the service academies

[555]  I am concerned that Congress is expecting graduates to donate funds for matters that should require appropriated dollars; e.g. renovation of Thayer Road.

[556]  DOD Budget- If the gift of a recreation facility satisfies a need, then O&M Budgets should be adequate to maintain them. This is not the case for the '47 Train Station Club and the '48 Ski Lodge. -Elimination of regular commissions

[557]  There is no incentive to stay in the Army past the five year committment. A lot of great officers are getting out.

[558]  I believe Graduates should at least have the option of being commissioned in the Regular Army at graduation.

[559]  Not commissioning USMA graduates in the Regular Army upon graduation.

[560]  Most of this decade has been a challenge for all of the service academies. I believe it is good, for it has forced thinking to be proactive. Am concerned that the purpose of soldiers, the Army, and the conduct of war are being lost in the rush to meet high ideals.

[561]  I heard many times during my tenure in Admissions, '93-'96, from congressional sources that a consolidation of the academies would likely see the most expensive academy (USMA) closed and consolidated on USAFA's grounds.

[562]  1. How much further will the Army's retirement benefits have to be eroded before there is no reason to seek a career in the military. I have had two ankle reconstructions (one as a cadet and the other a tank platoon leader) and now have a permanent profile. The injury itself as well as potential further damage because of our profession gives me cause for concern. I am only a 27 year old first lieutenant. Why would I want to stay in, deteriorate further over the next 15 and half years, and then get kicked to the curb? I live in Colorado Springs where TRICARE was just dumped by the primary civilian heath care conglomerate due to poor support and payment. It isn't hard to see the future (or lack of one!).

[563]  Regular Army commissions.

[564]  Why don't you list relevant mandates???

[565]  Shrinking the Corps

[566]  Civilianization of the Departments is counterproductive. The attempt of West Point to emulate national civilian universities as a way to attract more qualified applicants is the wrong direction. It should reverse course and once again present a Spartan enviornment, tough standards, training and academics, quit mollycoddling cadets and attract those who seek challenge, rigor and commitment. Only the Marine Corps is doing that today, and it is working better in this soft national environment than any other of the services who have tried to soften their challenge.

[567]  I have a problem with the don't ask- homosexual issue. I also don't agree with (given the broad inclusion of non-Academy graduates into the services) why Congress has not reconsidered retriement credit for attendance. Third, the DANTES incentive program for retirees to enter education, really sucked (I am blunt). Becasue of graduate school, and state mandated requirements I was not eligbile for the retirement year credit(s).It really defeated and provided a non-incentive to enter any education field (which is crying for graduates to enter).

[568]  impact of reserve commissions for graduates

[569]  The National Defense Board has recommended to congress that the US Military foucs on 'Defense of the Homeland,' instead of enforcing and executing foreign policy overseas. USMA should not support Isolationism.

[570]  Medicare at DOD medical facilities.

[571]  Budget cuts must not jeapordize the institution, and AOG should not be the one to make up a funding shortfall. It is our Nation's asset and our Nation's responsibility to maintain. USMA should not be under TRADOC.

[572]  Gradual integration of female soldiers/officers into aspects of combat arms. Mixed gender basic training Women at Military Academies

[573]  With the current environment, there is always concern that USMA may be deemed 'unnecessary'at some future date. Hopefully, this concern is shared by the leaders at USMA and AOG and will be used to ensure vigilance in keeping West Point vital to the making of exceptional leaders for the United States Army.

[574]  1. congressional questioning of the role and the need for USMA in light of the ROTC programs; 2. DOD and Army's requirement that USMA graduates compete w/ all other junior officers for RA commissions.

[575]  Public Law 102-109 Sec. 501. It seems to me that all efforts to make West Point graduates similar to other commissioning sources are steps toward Academy closure.

[576]  Congressionally Mandated Universal Reserve Officer Commission (e.g.: no RA) DA Implementation of above legislatation (e.g.: current plan to NOT allow USMA/ROTC DMG to become RA until the 9-11 year in service marker)

[577]  Elimination of commissioning in the Regular Army at graduation from the USMA.

[578]  1. Smaller size of the Corps. 2. Elimination of RA commissions.

[579]  Not sure. See my comments above.

[580]  I don't know the current status, but several years ago, during a reunion, the Supe addressed the class and told of efforts by some in the political arena to end the commissioning of graduates in the regular army. This is a frightening threat, and any and all steps taken to combat it.

[581]  This whole overreaction to the combination of male and female soldiers in training situations smacks of the tail wagging the dog. Having gone through a similar period of "media oversight" withthe class of 80, I know that the answer is not to draw back and separate men from women. This would only serve to perpetuate any prejudices and would give people an excuse to look down on women, treating them as second class citizens. What is really needed is a better system of checks and balances, like we have in place for other human relations matters (what were once referred to as "race relations"). Fix the problem, don't just give up! That's not the Army way. As for the "Don't ask, don't tell" method of dealing with gays in the military, that is a sparkling example of official cowardice! It leaves the gay soldier in a worse position than he was already in, and doesn't help the rest of the army either. JUst face the facts: there have been gays in the military since man began throwing sticks at each other, and there will always be. So what do you do about it? NOthing more than you would do if there were women in the military: you set up certain safeguards and enforce those regulations that are there to prevent their private interactions from interfering with the performace of their mission and the overall morale of the unit. Do you care whether men and women in a unit are having sex with each other? Only when it gets in the way of their duty, or undermines the chain of command (through preferential treatment, blackmail or whatever). So those are the things you guard against, not human nature. PLease note that I am not gay, nor do I personally sympathixe with the gay lifestyle; I am just being practical, and that is what the Army needs to do, the personal feelings of the Chief of Staff aside.

[582]  Elimination of automatic RA commissions was a mistake. Granted, there probably was no practical advantage to having an RA commission, but I took pride in my status as a "Regular" that I do not think I would have had as a "Reservist".

[583]  1.Giving craduating cadets Reserve Commisions 2. Integrating males & females in basic traiining 3. The General Officer Selection Process seems to be turning out politically correct managers instead of the best combat leaders.

[584]  Not sufficiently informed to render an appropriate opinion.

[585]  None that I am aware of. Is there a resource detailing items which may impact?

[586]  Funding for Service Academies A Single Military Academy

[587]  Reduction of funding to the Service Academies gravely threatens national security, both short range and long term.

[588]  Same as item 29 re Regular Commisioning policy.

[589]  Reductions in budget Elimination of the USMA Band

[590]  Grads should receive Regular Commissions unless individuals are "downselected" for cause.

[591]  RA Commissions

[592]  The subject of equality in promotions needs to be broached. Promotional packets should not include photos, references to gender or race, nor are names necessary for the selection process. All of these bias the process and serve only to attain quotas. This obviously impacts only graduates. An individual's record should stand alone. If not up to date then it is the individual's problem.

[593]  Reserve obligation for graduates. All graduates should be obligated to a minimum of 5 years of active duty service. In addition, all graduates should receive an RA commission, not a reserve commission.

[594]  general reduction in dod capability

[595]  Women in combat roles

[596]  Reduction in number of cadets at USMA

[597]  See #28 above. The inexperience and lack of knowledge of those in position to make decisions on appropriations, service, etc. The whole current political envirenment--with little on the horizon to improve it.

[598]  Denying Regular Army commissions to 2nd Lt graduauates.

[599]  see answers to #29

[600]  See question 28

[601]  - length of service committment for graduates - additional changes to the retirement system

[602]  1. Teaching of Army Values 2. Sexual harassment

[603]  See response to 28 above.

[604]  Admission of females.

[605]  Regular Army appointment at graduation

[606]  The RA commissioning issue.

[607]  Yees - current executive branch efforts to illegally and unconstitutionally deploy US troops abroad in support of a foreign power (UN, not-US) misssion. Rampant dishonesty and corruption in the executive and judicial branches of governement. Intentional errosion/weakening of US military forces by an insideous socialist/communist executive branch, errosion of US constitutional law,...

[608]  1. Loss of Regular Commission status for graduates. 2. Laws that allow recent graduates to get out of the Army early (before 5 years); some are then hired to AOG positions, to add insult to injury.

[609]  See comment above. It applies equally, if not more so, to the Army at large.

[610]  As the demands of Army life go up so do the challenges. Now more than ever strong leaders are needed in the Army. I hope cadets are aware of the challenges before them and what they can do to lead their soldiers through this busy difficult period. Just being tactically proficient is not the only leadership principle that applies.

[611]  Erosion of benefits. Lack of familiarity within our elected officials about military service and associated sacrifices. Believe military service often seen as simply a job. This permissive environmnet makes acquisition, development and retention very difficult.

[612]  The pressure to graduate every cadet, the lack of funding, and number one concern the increased number of civilian faculty positions. Personally anything over 10% is excessive for an instituation that is to train and inspire Army Officers.

[613]  RA commssions

[614]  Please keep in mind that a substantial number of still-living graduates of USMA are or were in the USAF. We ALL share a love of USMA and we are all dedicated to the defense of our country

[615]  law concerning the comissioning of graduates

[616]  Lack of understanding relative to the Academy's purpose to produce combat leaders. If I am correct, this is no longer in the Academy's mission statement.

[617]  "Downsizing" can become a threat to USMA unless there is a DOD commitment to maintaining the strength of the Corps. Other officer programs should be reduced/eliminated before any Academy--USNA, USMA, USAFA--is cut.

[618]  Consolidation of Academies

[619]  not sure, don't know enough to answer

[620]  See # 28

[621]  1. It would appear that some of the current gender problems found throughout today's military could be related to having two sets of standards. If everybody involved wants to be treated exactly the same, then, everybody involved should have EXACTLY the same requirements to be graduated from every course, class or program (or service academy). Such a common standard would make everyone equal in terms of what each has in his or her head about what they have accomplished. There would be no mental baggage on either side about who had to do what to get the same recognition for an accomplishment. In addition, I can not help but think that the subtle differences in curriculum plant seeds of "How else can I get another exception as I travel down a career path. I know that the above subject is filled with "landmines" and could be perceived as less than politically correct. However, I really believe that the above words and thoughts are at least part of why we are seeing so many allegations of sexual misconduct at all levels by both sexes in the news this past year. 2. Erosion of benefits for military retirees makes it difficult for me to honestly recommend a military career for any of the bright and shining youth that I see or with whom I have contact regularly. As the AOG lobbies for the Academy, itself and states in its goals to develop a compensation package for its employees, so should it have a way to weigh in on the impact of deletion/modification/erosion of benefits for those who do commit to a military career.

[622]  Like most graduates, I remain concerned over the decision not to award regular commissions at the outset of a career. The letter from the four '41 graduates certainly hits the nail on the head. So even if nothing can be done about it now, I hope we will continue to follow the situation and maybe a window of opportunity will arise where the old policy can be restored.

[623]  Only the consistent noise from the congress and some others that USMA is too expensive and we shouldget our officersfrom all other sources (ROTC etc.) Also the shortsighted reductions in the size of the Army which will ultimately come back to USMA.

[624]  Why do we have six year commitments when we are encouraging early terminations?

[625]  Placing of US military personnel under United Nations control with anyone other than a US Armed Forces commander tends to draw down the ideals of West Point because in other countries ethics, honor, and moral codes are not the same.

[626]  Poor selection rate for promotion for USMA profs

[627]  See above #28

[628]  Female cadets.

[629]  "Apparent" bias toward politically correctness in catering to diversity of each individual as opposed to individuals dedicating themselves to the overarching obligations and ideals of West Point. This appearance may or may not be accurate --

[630]  Funding.

[631]  Recurring theme of unification of the academies. While I strongly believe that the Air Force and Naval Academies need serious attention, I have been so enormously proud of the USMA cadets, alums and leadership that it is very clear that any and all changes must come from within. This isn't just inter-academy blather - I spent an exchange weekend at the AF Academy, and have read everything I come across about all the academies, and I think that both the leadership and the cadets at those other institutions are too blase, too cynical, and too cavalier about the deep-rooted spirit that should pervade and dominate everything else that happens at our schools. I have always been in awe at the abilities and accomplishments of our great West Point leaders - and I think they spring not only from the hearts and souls of intelligent and committed individuals, but also in significant measure from the fires of patriotism, committment and dedication that are fanned by the West Point motto. I really believe the other academies are too busy with technology to heed that other, deeper calling. I know this is nothing more than opinion and rhetoric which cannot ever be used in public - but the really important questions in my life have always been better and more quickly answered through opinion than through statistically valid data.

[632]  Lower levels of funding ...

[633]  RA commissions being eliminated for USMA graduates

[634]  1. Inadequate budget 2. Peace keeping missions. 3. Military as an instrument of social engineering.

[635]  (1) The decision not to make USMA graduates immediately RA has been a real downer. (2) The increased politicization of DoD is another downer ... yesterday Ken Bacon announced that participation in increasing numbers of peacekeeping missions has not had an adverse impact on force readiness. After working for 14 months with USAREUR's senior leadership on Joint Endeavor/Joint Guard, I know how great a prostitution of truth that is. Where stand our graduates in uniform?

[636]  Budget cuts have been too deep.

[637]  See 28 above.

[638]  From personal experience, it appears that there may be a concerted effort to dilute the ideals represented and implemented by USMA graduates. States that have typically abused the benefits bestowed upon them by virtue of being brought into DoD's fold of the Total Force, seem to resent the idea of doing the harder right instead of the easier wrong and would rather accept the half truth than the whole even if the whole truth can be won.

[639]  Probably, but I am not in close enough touch with the subject to object intelligently.

[640]  Failure to commission graduates as Regular officers. Women at the Military Academy and in the Combat Arms -lowering of physical standards, etc. There is a long list of "why nots". Someone senior needs to take on the task of facing up to facts. This social experiment is not a success.

[641]  Reserve vs Regular commission?

[642]  Unknown

[643]  -Return RA commissions to USMA and DMGs ASAP. -Return the service length to 4 years AD and 2 years in RC. -Get the level playing field with ROTC out of the equation, commission USMA first every year. -Cut the size of the Corps if necessary to protect the essential values of the academy. -The academies should be reqired and counted on to produce the leaders of character for the future of the country and the leaders of the US Army.

[644]  Not sure if this is the place to address this, but I thought the Kelly Flinn thing in the Air Force was an affront and an insult to the Officer Corps of all the Armed Services.

[645]  Emphasis on sex and racial integretion.

[646]  I am interested but not aware of the issues.

[647]  Women in the military,i.e. putting women into combat roles and combat support roles that are not appropriate to the Army' mission

[648]  We must resist with all we have the move to fully integrate women into the combat branches.

[649]  Too lenghty to elaborate in a survey.

[650]  quotas, differing standards, focuses on anything other than true mission to create excellent combat officers.

[651]  the demise of health care in the military

[652]  Pending actions related to separate basic training for females.

[653]  Regular Army Commisioning Policy The apparent lack of understanding in Congress as to what West Point is, why it was founded and why it is still required!

[654]  I am concerned about the Government's attempt to use the Army as a social experiment and take away the War Fighting focus of the Army. The Army exist to fight and win wars.

[655]  General lack of obvious, public discussion of policies of this Administration as they relate tot he long term role of the Services, particularlt the Army. Specifically, what the objectives and missions are of Bosnia-like deployments; what is expected of JMO's in that situation; what the Academy does to prepare.

[656]  Not properly informed.

[657]  Don't ask don't tell is rediculous. Must fight to keep chaplins, cadet chapels, etc.

[658]  West Point should remain a separate entity, just as any other college or university, and allow all armed services recruit the graduates as in any other job market, with the Army having the final decision as to what is best for this country.

[659]  I am unhappy whenever I hear of Academy funding cutbacks.

[660]  One constant concern I have is that our Commander in Chief is the antithesis of almost everything I was taught growing up, and certainly everything I learned about character at the Academy. We all know the armed services get very political, and how West Point is able to maintain its moral and ethical atmosphere while under the control of this Administration is beyond me. I don't see how any cadet can watch his Commander in Chief from one day to the next and try to reconcile that guy's behavior with the honor code he/she is being taught. And as for the CinC's attitude toward the cadets, let's recall the President's famous quote (from back in his college days): "I loathe the military." I would have no problem with an academy for women army officers, but I would rather see a separate institution. As much as I respect their abilities, contributions, achievements, and service records, I still don't like to see women sent to war; for that reason, I'd rather see males get those slots....

[661]  Not graduating as Regular Army officers is an insult to grads. Placing the same level of importance for the 4 years at WP to 4 years in ROTC is ludicrous (except for precious few programs that should also be given the option to graduate some/most? as RA officers also)

[662]  The continuing emphasis on integrating women into combat units is a distraction to commanders from their basic mission. We do not have a true measure of what will ahppen to unit performance in intense combat, but we continue to accept this mandate as if it were valid.

[663]  Not that I'm aware of.

[664]  Loss of regular commission upon graduation implies USMA is not doing its job. And, by the way, discussions w/Texas A&M distinguished grads last week supports this contention. Their retention rate is down for many of the same reasons ours is.

[665]  West Point's mission has always been greater than the Army or even the Department of Defense, or even the U.S. Government. Although the primary purpose of USMA has always been to provide Army Officers for the nation's defense, the history of achievements of graduates after leaving army service is equally if not more distinguished. USMA is a national treasure with importance on a national scale. Funding and resource allocation should not be based on USMA's impact on the Army, but on the historical importance USMA has had in the destiny of the nation as a whole.

[666]  Upholding moral and ethical standards higher than the civilian community.

[667]  I don't understand all of the facts, but it appears that the spending at USMA continues to be curtailed. Either they (Congress) should provide enough funding for USMA to function as a major university, or they should redefine what it is. As long as it it a major university, it should be provided funding for all those things that students should expect at any other university. I know that everything is not provided by public funding at other public universities, but USMA appears to now have less than the normal baseline of functions funded.

[668]  Graduates no longer receiving Regular Army commissions

[669]  As in my answer to question 28, I am concerned by the lack of "push back" coming from the military as it's mission is shifted from "fighting and winning the nation's wars" to that of becoming an immense laboratory for testing the whims of pampered social engineers.

[670]  RA vs. Reserve commissions Congressional funding

[671]  USMA should receive a Regular Army Commission The Army should make a Regular Army commission mean something again (look first to other than Regular Army [OTRA} officers for downsizing, not all equally) The Army should make all graduates serve their minimum service requirement before leaving the army. Allowing grads to leave early to reduce force structure is sending the absolute wrong message. West Point then becomes a junior executive production factory with a taxpayer-funded leadership practicum.

[672]  I perceive there still is a threat to the very existance of all service academies and that changes such as the regular/reserve commission are changes toward that end by Congress.

[673]  I have to assume that many of the changes that have occured in the past 40 years came from outside USMA, but the only one I know came from outside was the admission of women. That change is the least of my concern. The changes in training, education, and apparently honor worry me much, much more.

[674]  I believe the current restriction on graduates being awarded regular commissions is wrong and reflects the current anti-military bias of the Administration and the Congress. I recognize the contributions of the many excellent ROTC programs in the country, e.g., Texas A&M; but, to put them on an equal footing with the USMA, is wrong. In the long term, this thinking poses a threat to the survival of the Academy, and a threat to the Nation. :-(

[675]  downsizing of the military

[676]  The change in Reserve versus Regular commissions will probably affect the future of both the military, and the Academy.

[677]  1)-Deterioration of military benifits: Retiree and dependent medical/dental care; the Pay Gap; etc. 2)RA commissions for graduates. 3)Soldier voting rights 4)The fact that current funding for the military is insufficient for its size and its size is insufficient for its mission especially since peace operations have become prevalent.

[678]  Consolidation of academies; possible elimination of one or more, reduction in size of each, early release from obligation of grads.

[679]  decreasing funding of academies, downplaying importance of the role of USMA commissioned officers and interest in "civilianizing" academies

[680]  Regular Commissions not given graduates at graduation. Introduction of too many civilian instructors in the academic program. Loss of standards and discipline that produced the finest officer corp in the world!

[681]  I need to better understand these mandates before I can comment.

[682]  Desire in some circles to eliminate the Service Academies

[683]  Do not change the honor code. It is the rock upon which all else is based. Leadership is not about power. It is about authority which carries with it service responsibility. Graduates are being released way too early (after only two + years of service)

[684]  The non regular status on graduation. I don't know whether this is a congressional proposal or a fact. I am out of USA 6 weeks every year so I may miss certain developements

[685]  Reverse the destructive focus on winning intercollegiate athletics, have all medically qualified graduates enter the combat arms, eliminate women, return to a "General" BS without major and with attendant required increase in number of academic hours.

[686]  Using USMA for "social engineering".

[687]  I suppose this is one of many. But the whole idea of gays in the military getting special exemptions is anathema to me. Not that I don't know gays, have respect for them as people, but there is, in any war a different civilization? that has to be there. Brutal, non-tolerant, trusting of those around you to share the same values, and brutally realistic. A guy who wants to be a girl doesn't fit. A girl who wants to be a guy can, but not with the same dumbness that guys go to do these things. In combat, shared values are very important, not just "nice".

[688]  1. Female cadets. 2. Reduction in standards.

[689]  I do not know the specifics of any. I am sure there must be some efforts in that direction considering the President's agenda.

[690]  Continuing rumors of doing away with the Service Academies.

[691]  I think giving reserve commissions at the end of four years at the Academy is ridiculous. Why not have a soft znd easy time at Siwash and get the same commission? Makes sense only in terms of Senator Nunn's political agenda.

[692]  Downsizing of the US Armed Forces has led to a perceived loss of direction.

[693]  See item 28.

[694]  Reduction of opportunities in the Reserve and National Guard.

[695]  Base closures and DOD cutbacks.

[696]  Female cadets

[697]  Removal of Regular Army commissions from graduates.

[698]  I think that the military needs to be honest with itself concerning women in combat and the ability of women to perform many of the functions to which they are now assigned. The political pressure to refrain from making gender based distinctions is undoubtedly very great, but the military leadership must have the courage and fortitude to state the obvious: there are physical differences between men and women that prevent many women from performing certain tasks that would be required of them should they be assiged to certain units. Dual standards can't be maintained in an environment where people's lives are at risk. If someone can't meet the standards required, then they shouldn't be doing that job.

[699]  The current lack of adequate health care for retired military and their family. Lifetime health care was promised when we joined but military health insurance is taken away at age 65. The AOG should champion the continuation of lifetime health care for graduates and other military retirees.

[700]  All men are not equal and all women are not equal to all men. What is important is that combat leaders be developed at a certain standard with out regard to physical deifferences. Now combat leaders have a different standard. This is how the academy and officer development should be oriented.

[701]  I fear that in the force drawdown, retirees will suffer further degradation in benefits, especially medical.

[702]  Items 2 & 3 above

[703]  Seem to be trying to reduce the "Military" conection of USMA. Trying to civilianize and change the mission to include service in civilian capacities.

[704]  After four years every cadet needs to have an active duty commission.

[705]  Reinstatement of regular commissions should be sought.

[706]  Those mandates, or perceived mandates, that result in the situation described in answer to question 28.

[707]  Budget support is too low.

[708]  Yes. USMA should provide career COMBAT unit leaders, and women should be allowed only to the extent that our society wants to see full access to women to ALL combat positions. Concomitant with that, there should be only ONE physical fitness standard ... regardless of average gender differences, if a young man is required to perform x pushups and y sit-ups, the young woman MUST also be required to do precisely x and y also ... geez, even the latest women-in-the-Army panel recommends this. Why can't WP take the lead?

[709]  Graduates should be given commissions in the Regular Army. But I understand that because we are graduating so many each year that there is not room. The answer is simple: Go back to two admissions per member of Congress. That, the original intention, was to spread the cadet poplulation throughout the country, to make it clear that the military is under civilian control, and to reduce the possibilities of favoritism which is very much possible under the qualified alternate system. The Corps should be sized to meet the projected needs of the Regular Army, plus a factor for attrition.

[710]  Lack (or at least perceived lack ) of commitment of the nation , as represented by legislation, to the welfare of soldiers (including USMA graduates)thruout their lifetime -- resulting in less commitment of soldiers to the nation/military.

[711]  Only the occasional but pervasive rumors of service academy disbandment.

[712]  role of USMA in a smaller army with increasing number of questions regarding why do we need it when compared to size and relative cost of ROTC

[713]  see 28

[714]  The recent debate on issuing reserve commissions to academy graduates upon graduation.

[715]  The moral base of the army is eroding - a combination of zero-defects and the spreading plague of Clintonomia. I teach officers and I see this trend every day.

[716]  Lack of Regular Commissions and extended commitment periods.

[717]  RA commissions though I have to agree with the recent article in the Assembly which cautions an AOG led effort to restore the RA commissions. Lack of funding for the infrastructure at USMA.

[718]  See last response

[719]  -RA Commission issue -Emphasis on "Political Correctness" -Over-emphasis on "Affirmative Action" in recruiting cadet candidates -Permitting minority policy to approach divisive results within The Corps

[720]  I disagree with the idea of increasing the percentage of civilian professors.

[721]  Although the "Regular Army" status means little in the recent years, I think the removal of that status was a petty maneuver which hurt the standing of USMA grads.

[722]  My experience in the Army with my peers & subordinates indicates that an extremely large portion of young officers are quickly getting out of the military. While the Army has always been, and will continue to be challenging, it seems that the average young officer eventually becomes disillusioned due to such factors as lack of mission focus (i.e. everything is important) quality of life, and impact on family. While this statement does not directly relate to a specific policy, the large number of young officers that leave the Army is troubling to me.

[723]  the downgrade of commissioning into the army reserves is sickening

[724]  The USMA Mission Statement.

[725]  See above. I know that we are doing all that we can to communicate the needs and importance of the Academy programs to the folks in Washington. The issue is will they hear or understand or accept what is being told to them.

[726]  Lowered standards and affirmative action quotas within DoD undermine the quest for excellence.

[727]  Congressional enemies who would eliminate USMA because they do not appreciate its cost effectiveness.

[728]  Regular commissions

[729]  Lack of RA commission upon graduation We need to work harder to gain support for USMA at DA, Congressional level, and with the American people. Without such support we run a real risk of losing the overall support for a strong Military Academy. We must show that West Point provides a unique and special product that is not available from ROTC and regular colleges. Are all the changes being made, and that have been made, weakening our ability to convince the outside world and the American people that West Point produces this special group of officers in order to justify the cost of West Point??? This issue will become even more significant as fewer congressmen are veterans a nd far fewer Americans have served in the military. Changes at West Point must serve to make us different from ROTC and other college officer inputs. What are AOG, and USMA doing to sell this point??? What can informed grads do to help? (Grads must be convinced themselves that the changes are good and support the future of West Point.)

[730]  Female cadets RA commission no longer given

[731]  Pls see 28, above.

[732]  Media comments that some members of Congress favor abolishing all of the Service Academies. We can't let this happen.

[733]  Continual pressures by a small minority for force women into the combat units - infantry, artillery, and armor. I do not believe that is consistent with what the American people really desire. Ability is not the issue, cohesiveness of our combat units is.

[734]  lots of changes that confuse the mission and the things that make the usma different than other colleges

[735]  I'm troubled by growth of non-traditional missions for the military just because it seems to be a ready source of manpower - particularly at a time when all the downsizing is happening. I worry about the civilian leadership of the military making long-term decisions that will ultimately destroy the Nation's will and capability to defend itself. (and this from a Federal civilian!) If the newfound doctrine of emphasizing "warfighting" and focus on "core missions" is so compelling, then why don't we ask previous leaders of the defense establishment to explain why they built the defense bureaucracy that we're now tearing apart? (The end of the cold war, by itself, is not a sufficient answer.) I wonder if we're not sacrificing something really important on the altar of political expediency and personal advancement. Is there a phone number or Web site that AOG could provide that would tell us what "truth" is today?

[736]  see item 28

[737]  I oppose the directive to impose a civilian faculty. I think our officer faculty is one of our strong points as they are fresh from graduate school and very enthusiastic. A civilian faculty would never have the same impact.

[738]  I am a full time reservist and I am not convinced that starting every 2LT as a reserve officer is a smart thing to do. The whole point of being a USMA graduate is that you are destined for the regular Army first, then maybe as a reservist. Otherwise, we may as well consider ROTC as the replacement to USMA.

[739]  see above comment

[740]  See Above. In addition, while I support the infusion of more civilian professors, we need to be careful about who is chosen in those slots. Understand academic freedom, etc. Having been to grad school, I know the attraction to conform to the current university social norms of American academia is very powerful. The civilians we bring in are part of that world, rather the military instructors and profs who are insulated from having to jump through those hoops (though the PAPs can become vulnerable if they want to compete in that arena). This is a touchy and ambiguous issue for AOG which is not part of this process directly, however, nothing will rot core values of USMA quicker than a liberal, morally ambivilent civilian academic presence inside the gates.

[741]  Concerned that USMA Graduates not being offered regular commissions at present.

[742]  The detrimental effect on ALL areas of USMA and the US Military that the LIBERAL politicians have wreaked in the last 7+ years!

[743]  The Academy is a political animal, we must always be on the defence on these issues, the only thing we have going for us is time, if you can delay 'em long enough with discussion there will be new faces in thoses offices. The only rule I would offer is, "choose your battles to win the war and give 'em the petty ass stuff."

[744]  The continued down-sizing of all forces and the increased military presence worldwide. These two trends are going in opposite directions and we will soon have a major shortage of trained active and reserve forces prepared for such missions.

[745]  I am extremely concerned about the long range effects of USMA Graduates' being denied a Regular Army commission upon graduation. This will erode the value of the Service Academies, and could lead to a campaign to abolish these institutions. The Academy graduate still sets the standards in the Military, and is the nucleus of our Armed Forces! Our Service Academies are the only learning institutions where the primary purpose is to produce military leaders to serve our Country in war or peace. The Regular Commission is a primary incentive for those who want a military career. Let's work to get it back!

[746]  Too many graduates for a peacetime Army.

[747]  Admission of females as cadets. West Point was never intended to be a part of a social engineering program directed by politicians, many of whom are unknowing/uncaring about the primary mission of the military establishment.

[748]  Lets end the politically correct nonsense that men and women should go through basic training together. Separating the sexes will enhance discipline, competence, and help avoid the huge rush to avoid TRADOC assignments because of the attendant complications. West Point's political power is needed to speak out on this issue.

[749]  Only giving reserve commissions to graduates. The program is too superior to others to lower the stature of the graduate.

[750]  see # 28

[751]  Concern throughout the services on the lowering of standards, particularly physical standards, to accomodate females.

[752]  I liked the AOG Chairman's response the the RA commission in the latest Assembly. I totally diagree withe the Class of 1941's stance. Most cadets dont' understand the difference between an AR and Reserve commisssion. Idindn't when I entered West Pint, nor would I have cared if I had to compete for a RA commission. There is no way this will have a detrimental effect on attracting quality cadets. I someone fears they may not get the RA commission after serving a few years, then this isn't the type of candidates West Point wants or needs.

[753]  Too many to mention. Most have to do with females.

[754]  I may need more knowledge of the commissioned status of graduates, but I am concerned that they are on a probationary period for a couple of years. I don't know if that is necessary.

[755]  The cutback in the total military force will mean a reduction in academy graduates. Grads should not be disillusioned in thinking that they will all be able to stay in for a full active 20 yr retirement. Also, medical benifits are being cut every time you look at a closing post and with the reduction in Doctors working only on the AC.

[756]  I keep hearing a rumor that officer selections are now divided up according to source of commission. Not only does this automatically put some USMA grads at a disadvantage, it does not do much for the meritocracy goals of the ARMY. They SHOULD see a high selection rate of USMA Grads for higher rank vice other sources of commission; it only reflects the degree to which USMA has prepared her grads. IF we suddenly (or gradually) see a low selection rate of USMA grads for higher rank, then it should tell USMA that it is doing something wrong. But if USMA grads are seperated out from the officer corps and only a certain percentage are promoted, it will tell the Academy very little about the success of her officers in the Army. I am also concerned that RA commissions are not longer "automatic" to USMA grads. I know that there is very little practical difference, but it is a psychological one, to be sure.

[757]  Discontinuing of RA status for USMA graduates

[758]  1. No RA commissions

[759]  Drawdown and Reserve Comissions

[760]  There is not enough space.

[761]  - Reduced benefits for career officers - Reduced retirement benefits, especially medical - Broadening of branch selection choices to include CSS branches just to pander to those wanting to lower standards

[762]  Failure to commission graduates in the regular forces

[763]  The removal of the RA status of graduates Forgiving service commitments for gfaduates (not serving the full commitment after graduation) If West Point is supposed to provide the hard-core backbone of the officer corps, then relaxing the requirements to fulfill obligations is contrary to that goal

[764]  See above

[765]  Integration of the sexes in training and combat arms

[766]  The first step in the elimination of the Service Accademies has been taken by commissioning cadet graduates as reserve officers. Thislaw shold be repealed.

[767]  diversity - treat all equally but maintain high standards in doing so. my thought while attending and shortly afterwards was that we lowered the bar when we did not need to. we have good female cadets - let them achieve.

[768]  The apparent "civilianization" of the militaey in general. Let's return to the professional military attitude.

[769]  USMA grads getting reserve commissions, against the mission of USMA dictated by Congress

[770]  I'm not sure the probably suggestion to combine the academies is a good idea.

[771]  Asmentioned above the commissioning process, and keeping faith with the promises made by our government for faithful and honorable service.

[772]  Very disturbed at the current "rift" between the Active Component Army and the Army National Guard. The Air Force has truly integrated its reserve forces. The Army is very reluctant to do so.

[773]  RA commissions, feminization,

[774]  Hard to fully support some senior leadership initiatives that don't appear to make the best sense. Also, personnel "practices", although very good for such a large organization (Army), are still affected hugely by "looks like me" or "doesn't look like me" -- we officers seem to wallow in our narrow little universe of personal career paths and try to kill off everything / everyone different. This theme of intolerance seems to have grown greatly as we downsize.

[775]  Females as cadets. West Point at one time trained combat leaders. If females are not to be allowed in ALL combat-type units, why are they at West Point?

[776]  not happy with graduates earning a USAR commission upon graduation... should be a distinction.

[777]  Having different standards for men and women. A 200lb projectile weighs 200 lbs whether a man lifts it or a woman. Standards should not be different.

[778]  Continued erosion of retiree benefits. Continued reduction in the military's size and warfighting ability. We would not be able to support another Desert Storm with the forces we have today.

[779]  Seperate Training by sexes

[780]  Liberal Democrats are destroying the moral fiber of the nation much less the Academies. Lobby groups to prevent these types of activities as well as the reunification of USMA graduates to vote in promilitary politicians would be advantageous.

[781]  The tendency of these groups to blame USMA for the failing of some of its students whenever there is an honor "scandal" troubles me. The resulting hoopla results inevitably by more rules that preclude effecitve indoctrination of Duty, Honor, Country. The Army today is troubled by a shocking failure of leadership at all levels that stems from a weaking of the core values that should come from the Army's soul--USMA.

[782]  my comments in question 28 apply here also

[783]  The change to RA ccommisioning if that is still in effect.

[784]  Budget cuts & the affect on the Academy.

[785]  Funding - give WP more money

[786]  Type of commission received upon graduation

[787]  I don't think the Army (or any Service) should be a social engineering laboratory, but some of the Administration's policies make it look that way.

[788]  There are two: [1] Integrating women into the academy was and is a wonderful idea, which could well be accomplished without having done so in the barracks [or is it dormitory, now]. [2] There should be a return to the prohibition of homosexuals in the military, generally, but at West Point, specifically. I don't want to sound trite, but it does, in fact, have an adverse effect on disipline and moral, and violates the religious values of a very large proportion of the remainder of the population.

[789]  The elimination of the RA commission distinction for USMA grads.

[790]  Apparently, per the Army retiree newsletter, there is some move to credit ROTC grads who were members of the SMP, i.e. junior enlisted reservists or Natinal Guardsmen (persons?) with those 2 years of service for retirement purposes. If they GET that, then we should get at LEAST the same benefit. I taught ROTC for 3 years, and have worked some with reservists and guardsmen, and what we endured in terms of regimentation, military training and limitation on our personal freedom for 4 years, far outweigh the normal service of junior enlisted personnel in the Reserve or Guard. I would expect the AoG to be the vanguard in such a proponency.

[791]  The loss of regular commission for academy graduates.

[792]  Grant regular commission upon graduation

[793]  USMA graduates should receive Regular Army commissions upon graduation.

[794]  I do not agree with the reserve commission issue.

[795]  Get women out of the academy and the combat branches.

[796]  I think it is time we quit worrying about a person's sexual orientation. It is absolutely meaningless to how we do our job.

[797]  See comments above

[798]  The increase of civilian instructors I think was much too high. Five to ten percent is more than enough. I do not like the idea of women in combat or combat support units. I understand the Academy administration cannot change that, but I believe the addition of women to those type units does not improve the combat effectiveness of the unit. That is the question that needs answering when making such a change. The Academy has vaccillated on the branches open to Cadets over the years, but I think that it should still be combat and combat support branches only. The change away from a Regular Army commission for each graduate I think is a slap in the face of the Academy. I don't know the motive of Senator Nunn, but from my perspective it was wrong.

[799]  Women roles in the military are not what they should be. They do not need to train with men and they should be restricted much more in their assignments.

[800]  Funding reductions.

[801]  As noted above

[802]  I am opposed to the congressional decision to deny graduaates regular commissions at graduation. If the service academies are made to resemble civilian universities, we will soon have no service academies.

[803]  The discontinuance of regular commisions upon graduation.

[804]  The "Total Army" philosophy needs to be imbued into all aspects of the cadet experience. The functions, roles and contributions of the reserve components do not appear to receive equitable treatment with the Regular Army.

[805]  I hear and read more about congressional questions concerning the value of a West Point education to the Army.

[806]  I find it real hard to tell a young man or woman that self-service should be all that matters and the eroded retirement benefits don't matter. I find it difficult not to tell young people to do their time and get out.

[807]  Reductions in funding.

[808]  I think granting regular commissions only after attainting the rank of major a bad policy, for multiple reasons, including most of those outlined in last Assembly. Though I resigned to pursue a different career after 8.5 years' service, I think the current policy of 2.5 % of base pay per year served combined with the anxieties about being forced out even if one has an excellent record at some, perhaps very unpropitious time counterproductive. One has little to lose by quitting before 20 years, and minus a regular commission, is taking quite a risk of being "rifted" involuntarily, encouraging one to "jump ship" whenever an opportunity may come one's way. I know a number of younger graduates here in the Detroit area who fit that description. The objective of the Academy is to prepare young people for at least 20 years' service to the U.S. govt, not to spend more than a quarter million dollars on them and put them into a situation where they are motived to leave after 5 years if an interesting job comes their way.

[809]  Not enough background to respond

[810]  I have heard rumors about doing away with the academies altogether. I have heard arguments that the service academies are not good investments for the taxpayers.

[811]  INDIRECT IMPACT: The continuing downsizing of the US Army does not match the ambitious National Military Strategy of Engagement and Enlargement. Either the strategy needs to "downsize" or the military needs to be manned at a level sufficient to fight the so called "nearly simultaneous" major conflicts and still do all of the engagement activities that we are embroiled in.

[812]  cutting of benefits. One of the reasons I am retiring is to develop alternate sources of income

[813]  Too little political representation from people with any interest or knowledge of any branch of the military.

[814]  Reserve Army commissions for Academy grads?? Come on...this is ridiculous! What's the difference now between OCS/ROTC grads and Academy grads?? I propose very little.

[815]  I feel that the Army of today has become a social engineering experiment and much less of a true fighting force. As much as I hate to say, I'm glad to not be on active duty at this time.

[816]  Yes, I am concerned that more and more United States soldiers will be drawn into protracted engagements under UN supervision. More and more fine American officers are leaving the service because they do not wish to serve an organization such as the UN.

[817]  1) Continued erosion of benefits for retirees as well as active duty 2) Congressional pressure to change the role of the Military Academy

[818]  The congressionaly mandate that USMA graduates do no receive a Regular Army commission concerns me greatly. There seems to be a mood in congress to de-emphasize the role and meed for the service academies, to extent of questioning the need for their existence.

[819]  see above (#28)

[820]  The current budget situation in the Army and the shrinking available resources has forced many graduates to leave the Army, wasting the valuable resources that were used to train and educate them.

[821]  see 28

[822]  Not at the present. We should all be very plesed with the way that the AOG, USMA and DA have workrd with our Congress to hold the line in the past few years.

[823]  It bothers me that Graduates no longer leave the Academy with a regular commission. I am also concerned, but to a lessor degree, by the mandated reduction in the numbers of military instructors.

[824]  Need more info.

[825]  Further downsizing of the Corps strength. Funding constraints. Sexual orientation per se should not be construed as grounds for adverse personnel actions -- sexual orientation and sexual behavior are two different issues. Post cold war missions should be defined that provide more involvement of the military with diplomacy, peacekeeping and nation building.

[826]  Recent findings by commission headed by N. Kassebaum-Baker on separate gender basic training. Also, the To Be Published results of further study of the issue as directed by SECDEF. Ms Kassebaum-Baker's findings make the entire USMA process (evolution) integration of women for naught.

[827]  see my answer to 28

[828]  when I was teaching at WP I saw how the downsizing affected the morale of the officers and cadets and caused an early out mentality. The departments were selecting officers that were nonselects although great academics which caused the cadets to witness the destructive process first hand

[829]  Reduced funding

[830]  The taking away of the RA commissioning of West Point Grads. Not sure why this was done.

[831]  Though the vast improvement in the academic program is tremendously important, and the greater responsibility for their own actions on the part of upper classmen will prepare them better for transition into the real world. there is a perception that the unique emphasis upon Military leadership has suffered in the process.

[832]  The Academy's purpose constantly evolves in response to a constantly evolving nation. However, this is not always recognized by the bearers of the purse, many of whom maintain a static image of West Point from old movies and other media. The welfare of the Academy is not something to be complacent about, especially in the current period of balanced budgets and consolidation of defense agencies and unit drawdowns.

[833]  see 28, i.e. better blending of technology into military education.

[834]  Retention-We seem to measure our success by the retention rate. A higher retention rate is cited as indicative of our success. There are many implications to this policy. Are we challenging cadets? Honor - Do we "keep" cadets that should be separated?

[835]  Believe the continued downsizing will keep USMA at risk

[836]  Congressional or political pressure to make the academy more like a civilian university with more non military faculty, less financial support for the physical plant to include athletic facilities and grounds maintenance, as well as denying graduates regular Army commissions upon graduation.

[837]  Unaware of these too.

[838]  Loss of Regular Army commissions

[839]  The massive down-sizing of the military by the congress and the current administration is a mistake.

[840]  The competition for RA appointments will have a detrimental impact on recruiting.

[841]  I know the battle has been fought (and lost), but I still believe that not giving graduates an RA commission undermines the purpose of having the Military Academy.

[842]  USMA should grant a Regular Army Commission to graduates.

[843]  I am always concerned at ramblings (not necessarily mandates) about doing away with USMA.

[844]  We ALREADY have a "hollow" force! With the further cuts that are still coming, I just hate to see history repeat itself.

[845]  Regular Army commissions for USMA graduates

[846]  You asked - I flew to my 15 year reunion last year from Turkey! At the Sup's overview - the message I received from the Sup (besides a WP overview) was the Sup is targeting million dollar donors - such poor taste! Why not request us to give what we can financially afford to give and be apprecitive of that - sorry DOD is not paying me a million yet. Also, the Sup and the Com both immediately left Ike Hall auditorium immediately after this request for million dollar donors - didn't want to even meet some of the grads who travelled far distances etc etc??? In Ankara I was able to talk to Ambassadors, 4-star generals, dep sec state informally yet couldn't talk to USMA leadership personally because they had to "run" to attend a varsity soccer match - yes this bothered me. I personally led the effort in Turkey to hold a Founders Day - invite all of the US/Turkish graduates in the area to promote US, Army and USMA interests. Let's not let this happen again - believe it just takes some prior planning. Thanks

[847]  1. Are there studies of other "publicly supported institutions (both Federal and state) and comparisons made with funding priorities? Faculty? Realizing schools such as U of Va or Penn State are not service academies, but they are public and similarities exist - reputation and academic credentials are excellent. 2. Is there consideration to a Research Institute for USMA (separate from ARI)?

[848]  RA vs. Reserve Commissions

[849]  In a time when fewer and fewer elected officials have any military experience and the value of the Military Academy is less and less appreciated, I think it is important to be able to continue to generate support for the mission of USMA. I think recent decision regarding length of obligatory service and RA commissioning have been poorly thought out and executed.

[850]  -I believe (I hope not us, or our kids) we are doomed to repeat the history of the mid-30's and late 40's. When someone (like China or Iraq) decides to pull a Hitler, our collective pants will be around our ankles. Our society (and its a good trait) has a proclivity for thinking good things about other societies. Unfortunately, if someone is willing to die for a cause, the only solutions are to help them do that or leave them alone. Downsizing our military is a mistake. Has been since 1989. We proclaimed we would not be a world policeman and funded to that. We have also proceeded to try to do that by sending troops all over the world in harm's way. Oh, by the way, unfunded by Congress. (Take it out of hide, Army) Morale is sinking, enlistment is becoming a problem, accidents are happening (of course there's a common thread--lack of money). The sum is our miltary has switched from moving forward, developing, etc., to survival. Members of Congress who have military experience are dwindling, making any thoughts of returning to growth politically incorrect. I don't see that anyone, other than an unknown enemy, can change that.

[851]  The Regular Army Commission. The role of women in the military.

[852]  Regular commission item

[853]  See 28 above on commissions

[854]  Political correctness regarding integration of genders in the military.

[855]  West Point grads-and DMG's from ROTC and OCS for that matter-should receive RA Commissions upon graduation.

[856]  The overall social experiment of including women at USMA and the military in general is naive. It's an attempt to avoid the reality that the sexes are different and the military, especially the combat arms, is not an "8 to 5" job. We need military leaders with backbones to respond to the politicians who have no real allegiance to the military -- only to the latest poll results.

[857]  Congressional Support of the Academies, The Army's being polically correct in its use of women in the armed services.

[858]  Too much political correctness. I suspect the choice of the female Master of the Sword was foisted on the Academy by former Asst. Sec. Army. She is undoubtedly a fine officer, but does she model the role of a warrior?

[859]  The changes to the RA commission for Academy graduates. This will potentially build a stronger case of doing away with the military academies.

[860]  Only the rumors I have heard that indicate that Congress/President wants to shut down the Academies.

[861]  Budget dollars!

[862]  Women at West Point. Women in combat.

[863]  see #28

[864]  As implied in 28 above, I hear lots of concern expressed about WP not doing a good enough job balancing the academic qualifications with the leadership and physical qualifications of candidates. In short, placing too much emphasis on academics and not enough on military instruction and leadership training. I have heard that the only military instruction during the academic year is a two week period in January--if true this would be an indicator that the emphasis is in the wrong direction. And I would say I got more Mil Science in High School JROTC than Cadets receive today at WP.

[865]  Not sure we are all squared away with respect to the Year 2000 problem.

[866]  Continued downsizing of our forces. We could not generate the combat power today that we did against Iraq just a few years age. We cannot operate in two major theaters simultaneously. I'm most concerned with China! We better hope the Chinese don't start flexing their musles more, or we will be in deep trouble. And, worse is the troop morale. We send them to Bosnia for a year, bring them home for a month and send them back. The folks at Ft Hood spend over 200 days a year on maneuvers away from home and family. Trying to retain these fine young troops is a nightmare. We, collectively, through AOG (?) need to voice our concerns. As once said (by Washington?), "In order to ensure peace we must let it be known at all times we are prepared for war!"

[867]  Talk of doing away with the service academies

[868]  In my opinion, USMA has not enjoyed the full support of the Secretary of the Army and the Army Secretariat during the West/Lister regime. As a result, we have witnessed the erosion of appropriated fund support. I hope that that situation will be helped by the departure of Togo West and Sara Lister. I look for better days ahead.

[869]  1. Army has borne disproportionate brunt of downsizing since early '90s. 2. "Mission-creep" peacekeeping instead of warfighting. 3. Separating women and men in basic training is a bad idea, in my opinion.

[870]  RA commissions

[871]  Feel the RA Commission should be brought back as a given to graduates-we pay a bigger price getting our commission than others and ought get a commensurate reward.

[872]  Loss of RA commission.

[873]  Concerned...but realize that can do little about Congressional meddling/mandates in such areas as standards, nonRA for Grads, training and branching, use of USMA as social experiment,etc. Mission of Academy has been for years to train combat leaders for sustained service to the Nation ...and that needs to be maintined as focus to any changes/experiments "directed" by an alleged well-meaning Congress.

[874]  I have a problem with the congressional mandate to allow homosexuals in the military.

[875]  Service obligations and selection for active duty assignment. I do not believe weaving service requirements for academy graduates is appropriate. I truly believe that, in these times of force reductions in military service, accessing less that the full complement of academy graduates. The process that selects academy graduates should define the corps of the service cadres. While a cross section of sources is essential, academy graduates should constitute a base level for values and ethics for the services.

[876]  I, like I think many graduates, am concerned about the lack of military experience in Congress, and what this will do to the Army and West Point. I am concerned about the rapid level of "downsizing" in the Army, and it's attendant impact on National Security and, oh by the way, funding for West Point. I am also concerned about the lazzez-faire way Congress is making the Army pay for such political gambits as Bosnia, crippling Army operations world wide to pay the bill.

[877]  Recent news about the status of women and integration into the force. How does the academy participate in these matters?

[878]  future support and funding for the military acadamies

[879]  Delay regular commissions until O-4 rank is not a good move. Somebody is fixing something that is not broken!

[880]  Somewhat concerned that some grads are allowed to opt out of active duty service and finish commitment in reserve component, but I understand the dynamics which cause this to happen.

[881]  RA Commissioning. Of course RA commission does not mean much anyway because when the Army RIFd Majors from YG78 they pursued an exception to the law that said RIF Reservist Officers prior to RA Officers. Believe this two actions together are like an iceberg; the effects will not be completely seen from the surface until it is too late.

[882]  Army Downsizing hurts cadets because they do not have the faculty role models who are consistently sure that they themselves will be allowed a "full" career of Army service. Cadets pick up on this and start to focus alot more on civilian careers after their obligation.

[883]  Continued rumblings / questions concerning the value and necessity of USMA.

[884]  Congressional mandates to downsize DoD should not impact USMA funding. Funds spent on USMA con save in the long run by training Cadets to the highest academic standard in the country. We will trust them with the liives of our sons and daughters and the security of the nation, we should give them the best education and training possible in all areas of human endeavor.

[885]  Elimination of Regular Army Commissions upon graduation.

[886]  I do not think the AOG should raise money for USMA that Congress should be providing.

[887]  The continued attempts by the Congress (particularly the SASC) to do away with the service academies.

[888]  See items in 28.

[889]  I am unaware if there are any???

[890]  Health care of retired personnel.

[891]  I think that all USMA graduates should be assigned to a combat branch. If congressional or defense mandates will not allow this then that particular segment of the population should not attend USMA.

[892]  Reserve Commissions for Graduates

[893]  1. The reserve vis-a-vis RA commission. 2. Any and all "social experiments" thrust upon the Army and the USMA. 3. Any and all "political correctness" issues.

[894]  I'm very concerned about national policy regarding homosexuals serving in the military. My concern is that our national leadership, in the White House, the Congress, and the DoD, has not been decisive or willing make the difficult right decisions. In my view, homosexuals should have the same right to serve, and should bear the same responsibility to serve, as anyone else. The real debate should be focused on how to make that work, given the inherent difficulties such a policy would present commanders. Instead of discriminating against and incriminating homosexuals, we should focus on pushing our leadership to help commanders--and the Superintendent--deal with the reality of our society.

[895]  All Academy grads should receive an RA Commission. Large numbers of civilian professors in the permanent faculty are not in the interest of the Academy nor of the Army. We get lots of ROTC grads who have stuied under civilian professors. We need Academy grads who have been steeped in the customs and traditions of the profession of arms.

[896]  Funding

[897]  Combat role of women

[898]  Reserve Commissions

[899]  "Women in the military" in general, and at West Point in particular, is an issue that has consistently been faced emotionally and not rationally. I believe that our laws and policies have done irreparable damage to the careers of unsuspecting young women who believe that a Congressional mandate make them equal partners to men in combat and combat-related situations. How you turn back the clock on this is another issue, but I think you begin by getting the Army's leadership to argue the situation from a philosophical point of view: women are the civilizing force of society and should only be used in (and trained for)combat as a very last resort when the last able-bodied male has been committed.

[900]  Yes. The move to DEMAND that graduates financially support the basic function of the academy. That is a bunch of CRAP. USMA is not a civilian school and the AOG should not function as a civilian school's alumni organization.

[901]  I am concerned for the long term health of USMA in the face of budget cuts. USMA needs to remain a priority for the country.

[902]  The fact that RA commissioning is no longer the standard.

[903]  Again - how would I know - what does AOG do to publicize them?

[904]  I understand that Army retirees are not permitted to serve in the Army Reserve for pay. I feel strongly that the Reserves need the organizational and tactical proficiency O-5 and O-6 retirees can bring to the Reserves, and that such policy (or law) unfairly penalizes retirees who would otherwise continue to serve after retirement in Reserve status. I realize this not solely an AOG issue, but I believe that, because such a large proportion of AOG's members are O-5/O-6 retirees, AOG should be interested.

[905]  gender issues in the military

[906]  Separate basic training of females and males.

[907]  Not a mandate, but the thought of Congress not funding USMA is very disturbing; if it is talked about long enough, the chances of it succeeding would seem to increase. Continued emphasis on the values(concrete and intangible)added to the American society by the USMA must be a significant goal of the AOG.

[908]  Eroding benefits and broken promises to our younger folks in particular

[909]  Homosexual policies-sexual harrassment- and the current movement to separate training.

[910]  Continued budget cuts and the ability of West Point to absorb them without a degradation in quality

[911]  The women-as-social-experiment thing has been bad for the Army and for USMA. It's above the pay-level of the Supe to fix, but as long as you have multiple standards, yo're going to have a muddled and confused organization.

[912]  I understand that Army retirees are not permitted to serve in the Army Reserve for pay. I feel strongly that the Reserves need the organizational and tactical proficiency O-5 and O-6 retirees can bring to the Reserves, and that such policy (or law) unfairly penalizes retirees who would otherwise continue to serve after retirement in Reserve status. I realize this not solely an AOG issue, but I believe that, because such a large proportion of AOG's members are O-5/O-6 retirees, AOG should be interested.

[913]  Financial Support

[914]  1. Reserve commissions 2. Constant cuts in retirment benefits 3. Continual discussions on closure of the academies.

[915]  see #28 above. I'm also concern about the mixed signals sent by an Administration that requires a 6 year obligation for graduates (which restricts admissions) and then turns around and offers "early-outs" to graduates who have been in the Army 2 or 3 years....to satisfy manning levels.

[916]  The academies have always provided leadership for the nation, not just for the services. This needs to be better understood my our non-military experienced congress, executive branch and judicial system.

[917]  What is financial impact (presumably a savings)of not providing RA status to new grads? Is there less of a retirement benefit for a 7 year RA officer (assuming that future grads would not make RA until they make Major at about 13 years) than a 20 year RA officer? Otherwise, why did Congress propose this reg?

[918]  Senator Glenn has proposed increasing the commitment required of graduates, but it is already greater other sources of commissioning and would only hurt recruitment. I don't agree with the Reserve commission scheme for new graduates, either. That change stripped away the only tangible benefit to putting up with 4 years of bullshit.

[919]  I'd like USMA to clearly describe its unique relevance to the Army and the Nation. I fear that if it continues on the path established by Bernie Rogers and Dave Palmer, AOG better get ready to raise a much larger percentage of its annual operating budget.

[920]  Again, thanks for asking. Based on the yearly explanations (in the Assembly) from USMA management, it appears over and over again that the budget process, as the Army practices its' participation, rarely seems to be positively impacted by adequate, focused lobying. The results of that participation appear to hit the budgets negatively thereby constraining the ability of the USMA staff to do its' job.

[921]  I think it is important that Service Academy graduates be commissioned as regular officers at graduation.

[922]  I continue to be concerned with balancing US Defense needs of the post cold war world and the potential impact that reduced budgets can have on established institutions like the military academies. The far end of this concern is that there are those that would propose that we do not need military academies anymore. The Tommy Atkins sydrome applies, and we need to keep the relevance of our military institutions (to include West Point) "in the face" of these detractors by showing value for money. Easy for me to say, and not always easy to demonstrate-but that's the challenge!

[923]  The annual process of justifying our existance and begging for our budget.

[924]  1. The Army's OPMS system does not "really" support officers who attend grad school and teach at the academy -- too many gates to go throught in the current system. 2. Always concerned about Congress further cutting funding, raising length of commitment, etc. However, I must admit I've lost track of the current state of some of these issues.

[925]  Expanding responsibilities while cutting operating and acquisition resources.

[926]  The offering of "early-outs" sends a mixed message to graduates. The army is sponsoring a program that takes the "duty" out of "duty, honor, country". If faced with the choice of corporate money or being a 1LT, most graduates will go for the money. If the choice was not offered, there would be no conflict of interest.

[927]  downsizing maty effect the ability of the school to offer firts rate programs -- equal to any found at our better civilian universities

[928]  1. Downsizing 2. Role of women 3. Peacekeeping Operations 4. Pay 5. Retirement Benefits

[929]  Not familiar enough with current mandates to comment.

[930]  The recent Army panel investigating Sexual Harassment has indicated to the Army that it should consider single gender entry level training. I do not believe West Point's Beast Barracks and the Army's Basic Training are mirror image events with the same fundamental purpose. As such, I recommend West Point request exception from any initiative to separate the entering men and women cadets. A significant aspect of the West Point experience is the bond which is formed among classmates as early as Beast. This bond does not recognize gender as a discriminator - it just recognizes people who work together to overcome difficult challenges. As I already said, West Point's initial entry phase has a different purpose from basic training - let's protect its difference from the Army's cookie cutter solution, if mandated.

[931]  1. I find it hard to believe that new USMA grads are not receiving RA appontments. This is a slap in the face of the Academy and to all grads, past and future. 2. Women in the military (and the Academies). This is being terribly mismanaged and the public perception of what's happening couldn't be worse.

[932]  1. Allowing women to serve in combat arms is inappropriate. 2. Lowering standards to accommodate women or minorities is unacceptable.

[933]  see #28

[934]  see above

[935]  Reserve Commissions upon graduation.

[936]  General trend to downplay service academies. We need to constantly work to educate on the value of them to national interests. Maybe this is an area where AOG can do more.

[937]  Please see 16 above. In addition, the overall mission creep of US foreign policy is troubling. I believe we are one major engagement away from significant casualties and the appearance of defeat at the hands of one of a handful of tyrants fighting on their home turf. Which will be first? It will impact significantly on officer retention and the capabilities of our Armed Forces. Worse still, we will needlessly lose more of our graduates, countless young Americans and the world will not be a better place for it. We have to have a more successful approach to the budget process to ensure adequate preparation for both USMA and the Armed Forces in general. I don't think they can be separated.

[938]  Yes see 28

[939]  See Above - I see USMA's "giving in" on this issue as an indicator that the future of the Academy may be in jeopardy.

[940]  I'm sure there are some.

[941]  Lack of Regular Army status for graduates.

[942]  The first step in the elimination of the Service Accademies has been taken by the commissioning of cadet graduates as reserve officers. This law should be repealed.

[943]  Congresses willingness to fight for a cadet who the Academy has separated and the institutions willingness to reverse itself in these situations.

[944]  1. The Congressional mandate to award Reserve Commissions.

[945]  I deeply regret the decision to withdraw "RA" status from current academy graduates. Why? For what reason? For what benefit? It makes absolutely no sense to me. Furthermore, it is a disincentive to all present & future cadets.

[946]  Academy graduates should graduate with an RA commission.

[947]  Former Undersecretary of the Army Lister.....need I say more???

[948]  Downsizing efforts have impacted personnel programs much greater than equipment contracts. Retirement benefits have been reduced. Officers pay scales trail their professional equivalents. Worst of all, housing and medical services for all soldiers is being deplorable.

[949]  Funding cuts

[950]  The mandate for more civilain instructors and non-academy grads concerns me.

[951]  The treatment of senior officers relative to the treatment of women in the military.

[952]  The Army's gender issue. Only the Marines do it correctly, to separate the sexes in basic training.

[953]  1. Continuing to define/expand the role of female career military oficers. I am concerned that efforts at the Congressional, Defense and Army levels are striving to address OPPORTUNITIES for female career military officers, with only secondary regard for the best interests of the service and national security. 2. Defining the roles and objectives of USMA graduates within the service (Army), and within the larger context of national service. Is the Academy's function to produce junior military officers for the U.S. Army (as does ROTC and OCS)? Or are USMA graduates expected/required/desired to fill a somewhat different niche and role, of which the junior officer experience is simply another level of training and development? My concern is how these two important issues are resolved (actually, continually re-evaluated), and who (what stakeholders) participates in the process.

[954]  RA commissions should be restored upon graduation, but I think now is NOT the time to make it an issue.

[955]  Combat arms policy. Attempt at making the Academy "more like other institutions"

[956]  Percantage of Elected Officials with military experience. See #28. We need to STRESS the value and uniqueness of USMA and the leader development process to the Congress.

[957]  I left active duty after nearly 10 years of service because I didn't like the direction the Army was headed. I proudly served in Desert Storm as part of the greatest Army in the history of the world. However, I watched with dismay as our country dismantled that Army. When I left active duty in 1996 I saw that we were rapidly heading towards a "hollow" army while the Army's missions continued to expand. I think the Army has done a much better job at managing the force drawdown than it did after Vietnam, but it is still a severe challenge.

[958]  In this era of doing more with less, the military's cost-cutting measures scare me because of the danger, as I see it, of Congress looking at the AOG fundraising efforts as an excuse to further chop the USMA budget.

[959]  Instructions to typical promotion board to discount low senior rater profiles given to women and minority officers as being representative of institutional biases and therefore not as noteworthy as a comparable low rating given another officer. Push to assign women to combat duty positions. Lack of performance-based physical fitness standards linked to military occupational speciality. Same minimum physical fitness standard for males as for females (need to do away with gender-based standards). Design of the Total Force -- ARNG having majority of the combat forces, fielding new equipment to ARNG and USAR units before fully equipping active Army; active force structure having insufficient CS units to support AC structure; training exercises focusing on peacekeeping operations instead of warfighting (can afford to come in 2d in peacekeeping operation, but cannot afford to come in 2d in combat).

[960]  New laws and policies which will delay new graduates commission in Regular Army

[961]  See above

[962]  As mentioned above I'm concerned, in general, with a sense that the role of the military, while adapting to a post-cold war environment, might be distracted from the ultimate war fighting mission and, as such, may divert time, attention and dollars from satisfactorily preparing graduates of USMA to fulfill their roles as leaders and warriors.

[963]  Spending too much time trying to solve the evils of America and the Army and not enough time doing what West Point is good at accomplishing: Nurtuirng leaders of character that go beyond the gray walls to lead in military service and civilian life.

[964]  Too complex a concern to address adequately here. In short: As a group West Point graduates work harder and longer in more demanding assignments upon graduation than any others. The leadership/promotion/assignment system of the Army seems to lose sight of that reality.

[965]  Continued existance of all academies and the background and career status of instructors. I believe its important to keep all the academies and continue their appropriate funding, and I believe the current system of using active duty officers for instructors is very benefitial for both the cadet and the Army.

[966]  doing away with regular army appointments

[967]  Spending $90 million to build a gym is a crime. Cannot we do better

[968]  1. Gays in the military. 2. Change of commissions from regular to reserve. 3. Allowing females to occupy combat positions.

[969]  graduates ar no longer given active duty commisions

[970]  If budget cuts or fund restrictions contribute to what was mentioned in item 28, then I am concerned

[971]  I am very concerned about the deployment of US forces, especially ground forces, into areas of active combat, such as civil wars, without a declaration of war by Congress. At present, it is much easier for the President to put forces into harm's way than it is for anyone to take them out. Given that it will probably remain very difficult to take out previously-inserted forces, it should be made (much) more difficult to insert them. I would prefer if this were only done with a prior declaration of war by Congress. Then, we know that we have the support of our American people.

[972]  Move to civilian professors in classroom

[973]  The feminization of the Armed Services - Training, combat efficiency have suffered - downsizing of the military - Lack of leadership at the highest levels - and this is just a start.

[974]  item 28 applies

[975]  The problem of Regular Army commissions for graduates

[976]  1. I disagree with the downsizing of USMA, as it is less expensive per graduate to maximize the facilities and should be better for the country. 2. I think that regular army commissions are justified by the selection process and graduation requirements. While I do not object to competing fairly with ROTC graduates, I think that the country can expect reduced commitment from cadets to the Army since it has symbolically reduced its expectations of them as graduates. 3. I disagree with scope of the reduction of core academic courses and the awarding of academic majors.

[977]  women in combat, make it real versus political. cadets and graduates should be equal and treated as such regardless of sex.

[978]  I would like to see a push for regular Army commissions for all graduating cadets. That is what the original intent of establishing a U.S. Military Academy.

[979]  Budget cuts

[980]  The funding issue

[981]  I believe the move from automatic RA commissions was inappropriate. There is no doubt in my mind that living a four year academy experience better prepares a young 2LT for military leadership with a leaning toward a career. While many ROTC graduates may be good leaders, I believe more USMA graduates think of the long term service and career. This has often been perceived as the "West Point Protective Association" (WPPA) which gives USMA grads an edge in promotions and selection. I believe, on the contrary, that the inbred thoughts and actions of a long career are what make the USMA graduates act and serve so as to succeed in a manner which supports their promotions and selections for schools and commands. While it may seem like a small matter, I believe the sacrifices and trials a USMA cadet endures should warrant a regular commission. It would not surprise me if USMA does not loose some quality students who perceive this lost advantage as an errosion of distinction.

[982]  Reserve Commissions Funding for USMA Infrastructure

[983]  1. The desert storm illness coverup. 2. The extremely conservative stance on sexual relations between consenting heterosexual adults. 3. The Army's last of the big three position when it comes to DOD funding. 4. The "new" idea that soldiers who will fight together (men and women) shouldn't train together.

[984]  I support the class of 46 resolution

[985]  My reply to #28

[986]  Lack of an RA commission for current graduates.

[987]  There appear to be a number of members of Congress that have a negative attitude toward the need for the Service academies. We need to understand their real concerns and work to change them. The NAtion needs the Academies.... See also the modification of minority emphasis above.

[988]  Believe all graduates should be afforded RA commission.

[989]  I share many of the concerns of serving officers about what I consider a general trend away from the fundamentals. Like the rest of the serving officers I know I do my professional best to support these policies my own disagreement notwithstanding. Examples: I think radical gender integration is a questionable mean to a questionable end. The fact that is does not work (down in the trenches) seems to be beside the point. I think the current policy on homosexuals defies comprehension. I think the general trend of "using" the army to support a host of social experiments is leading to a dangerously more partisan officer corps that is more and more out of touch with its civilian leadership. I don't think we are a well understood element of society any more, and I think people in political power, to include people who have direct policy influence in DoD and DA, understand us perhaps least of all. An example is the recent flap over a high ranking DA civilian calling the Marine Corps extremists. I think all of this has led the Academy to a drive for "relevence" that is more a function of serving the political ends of our current political leadership than the long term well being of nation that a great school, with very high standards for everyone, could provide.

[990]  The careers that have been cut short (via Tailhook), the absolutely pathetic manner in which our congressional representitives carried on during the Kelly Flynn circus, the horrible amount of time and money the military wastes on sexual harassment/race relations "training "; this concerns me greatly.

[991]  Use of the U.S. Armed Forces as humanitarian aid providers all over the world. This prevents the mitary from properly training and preparing for war which should be their only purpose and use.

[992]  Rumors about Reserve Commissions for academy (ALL) graduates.

[993]  Don't regard the RA commissin issue as worth the trouble.

[994]  Loss of RA commission.

[995]  RA commsions

[996]  The issuance of Reserve instead of Regular Army Commissions to all qualified graduates is a symbolic slap in the face. Changes in personnel and officer management policies have diminished the real value of a Regular Army Commission, however the symbolic value is still substantial. Taking this away from USMA grads says loudly "you aren't special any more."

[997]  Elimination of RA commissions for graduates.

[998]  Regular commissions for service academys (and ROTC DMGs) must be reinstated now. And concomitantly, some modicum of service "tenure" similar to pre- DOPMA times should attend the Regular commission. (Interestingly, Gen Bernie Rogers also was a primary force in instituting DOPMA.)

[999]  The operational and capital funding cutbacks. The AOG should not be put into a position of having to replace or even supplement budget funds that should be provided from the U.S. Government funding process. Our class president, Don Kutyna, has some good ideas in this regard.

[1000]  Defense funding in general and its impact on the Academy, in fact all of the service academies

[1001]  Yes, but. It seems to me that the AOG is too closely connected to USMA in outsiders eyes to be able to be critical, as an organization, of higher ups without drawing criticism itself.

[1002]  Downsizing - we are at the "muscle" throughout the Army. It seems that TDA Orgs ala West Point are continuing to "take hits" suboptimizing those who want to serve here.

[1003]  Unaware of such mandates

[1004]  With the on-going downsizing of the Army, we should have a plan that addresses the downsizing of the Corps of Cadets (back to 2400 perhaps) and a plan that looks at going back to combat arms commissioning only. Be bold and not politically correct!!

[1005]  Two things concern me: (1) No distinction between ROTC and USMA commission type (Reserve or RA) (2) Letting USMA graduates out of their obligations too early. We spend a lot of taxpayer dollars on USMA educations. There seems to be a lot of USMA graudates getting released from active duty early with the drawdown. The drawdown is understandable, but I think USMA graudates should be the last one's let out of their obligations early, or else require people to serve in other ways, e.g National Guard, Army Reserve, or some other way to serve U.S. interests (Peace Corps, Justice Department, etc.)

[1006]  I support the granting of Regular commissions to graduates of the Academies. The selection, winnowing, and development of Academy graduates is far more rigorous and should be so recognized.

[1007]  The organization (USMA, Army, etc.) seems to be turning into a place of political correctness. It also seems to be quite a bit more "lax" than even 10 years ago. I think we sometimes forget the character that is built in going through something tough, and succeeding. That will carry these young men and women further than most anything else they will learn.

[1008]  The Current Administration's policy on homosexuals should be changed to a policy of asking and not allowing homosexuals in the military.

[1009]  None specifically, but I don't believe that I know current or pending mandates very well.

[1010]  See No 28.

[1011]  With the Sec Defs decision to go to same sex training, what will West Point do to be in compliance??

[1012]  Lack of funding for the Army in general. They have cut troop strength and funding so low that I believe there will be very high attrition of officers after initial commtiments. (This is the reason I became dissatisfied and got out during the Carter years: no funds for training.) The lack of troop strength (cutting back divisions) makes those left constantly deployed and destroys their quality of life, especially as far as their families go.

[1013]  To remain a viable institution, WP must be unique in what it delivers to the country. If we accept candidates whose stated goals are to become doctors, lwayers, etc., WP will lose focus and eventually die. It that means reducing the size of the Corps for a more select group, so be it.

[1014]  Graudates not receiving an active duty commission. We worked to hard to have the same commission as Joe College ROTC drinking beer for four years.

[1015]  USMA Graduates should be commisioned as Regular Officers.

[1016]  Regular commissions for USMA graduates.

[1017]  The Academy, like all Army institutions, will be under increasing budget fire. We all know it costs a great deal to educate each cadet. What is the value added? Is it worth the additional cost over ROTC and OCS? We like to think we can answer these questions easily but the "budgeteers" are not as pleased with our answers as we are. Look at selection rates to the higher ranks. Is USMA competitive? What is competitive? I firmly believe we will come under increasing fire from a Congress that has fewer and fewer veterans with little empathy for the code that West Point stands for. Combine this key issue with the reduction of retiree benefits and the sales pitch for West Point becomes very empty. Again, this is too short a space to really respond--give me some more time.

[1018]  Our graduates have earned Regular commissions; they should have them.

[1019]  Clinton and Congress trying to run social experiments on the Army as a whole. I DON'T like it.

[1020]  I do not agree with the change in the commissioning status of cadets. Cadets should be awarded with regular commisions as they were previously.

[1021]  This is precisely what I addressed earlier. I'd like to know more about these things, and the e-mail forum would be an ideal way to handle it.

[1022]  Downsizing - should not downsize the enrollment and graduation of West Point. ROTC was to supplement procurement of officers, not vice versa.

[1023]  Loss of RA status at commissioning

[1024]  I feel that if West Point is used as a reserve officer "generator", that the dollars used to maintain the military academy will be deemed poorly spent.

[1025]  Congressional actions to reduce or eliminate the Academy

[1026]  Elimination of regular commission

[1027]  RA commissions

[1028]  I am concerned about the ongoing attempts to eliminate or reduce the military academies. I support ROTC but do not feel that it should be a primary source of officers.

[1029]  The DOD policy commonly known as "Don't ask - don't tell."

[1030]  Reserve commisions upon graduation.

[1031]  Medical assistance after attaining medicare status is non-existant AOG should be frank in addressing this shortcoming.

[1032]  Budget cuts - we need to be prepared

[1033]  There are three policies which portend grave adverse impact on the Academy, the Army and the Nation. The Chief of Staff of the Army has all the authority and capacity required to change these three policies, and must do so immediately, by obtaining the full cooperation and support of the Superintendent. First the Corps must be downsized to say, 2,500 Cadets, in order to provide a higher quality cadet and graduate upon commissioning; improve quality of officer assignments as USMA Instructors; reduce costs; and develop the Corps cohesion needed for dramatic changes in training, education, and inspiration. Second, policies which undermine the USMA mission to produce Regular Army professionals dedicated to a lifetime career in the Regular Army must be immediately reversed. No basis, whatsoever, exists for such mandates, including the singular, unique, U.S. Army policy requiring many years of service before entry into the Regular Army. The only articulated reason on record, anywhere, for the denial of RA status to USMA and DMG graduates is a need to establish fairness during reductions in force. This is absurd. Third, entry into a combat service support branch, by any USMA graduate must only be allowed after two years service in either a combat or combat suport branch. Policy must provide for all prfessionals produced by West Point to only enter either a combat or combat support branch, for obvious reasons.

[1034]  USMA graduates should still get Regular Army commissions.

[1035]  1. Commission on graduation - but realize futulity of offensive at this time. 2. "Mistress of the Sword"- no cojones! 3. "Officer and Gentleman" too many reports of ungentlemanly conduct towards female cadets.

[1036]  Unequal treatment of females vs. males on physical testing - make it the exact same.

[1037]  Not awarding RA commissions to USMA and distinguished graduates

[1038]  See above under Item 28.

[1039]  RA commissions

[1040]  West Point is going the easy way on political correctness. We should be producing Combat Arms Officers...period.

[1041]  Women at West Point

[1042]  The commissioning of graduates as Reserve Officers rather than Regular Army Officers.

[1043]  USMA should be fully funded by the Federal Government

[1044]  The regular army thing was bad, but West Pointers should rise to the top in any system, and since all who stay for 10 years are regulars anyway, no problem in the long run. West Point should be well funded enough to allow outside activies, part of the college experience.

[1045]  Efforts to reduce USMA cadet's priority in commissioning/branching process Loss of RA commission (on both USMA and ROTC DMGs) Failure of Army Leadership to be honest about problems in integration of women into West Point and Army as a whole

[1046]  1. Not commisioning grads at graduation 2. Reduced appropriated funds funding 3. Reduced familiarity of congress members with military.

[1047]  There are a number of issues before Congress and the Senate which will adversely affect the Armed Forces and ultimately the Academies.

[1048]  Reserve Commissions. Same story you've heard a million times already.

[1049]  Still concerned that graduates will compete for RA commissions. An USMA education should not be a free ride -- and being in the reserves after one year of service is to me a free ride.

[1050]  Systematic devaluation of the West Point experience. If the country keeps on its current course, pressure will build to shut the academies down. On a broader scale, women in the military related issues have been badly handled. This may be due partly to "women in combat" being a contradiction in terms.

[1051]  No Regular Army commissions for USMA and Pershing graduates until Major.

[1052]  The Reserve Commission vs the Active Commission. I have read and agree with the AOG's decision not to undertake a challenge to this legislation in today's political environment with limited resources.

[1053]  Females

[1054]  I have not heard anything about the possibility of having cadets who are medically disqualified from service serve their commitment in a civil service or Americorps position, rather than simply wasting the money and training the public has vested in them.

[1055]  See above

[1056]  Change from RA commissions. The next step will be make USMA an ROTC scholarship.

[1057]  I probably am not knowledgeable enough regarding the "mandates" to which you are refering to respond. I am concerned about the role of the armed forces these days and how it affects not only USMA graduates but all service people. My concerns regarding West Point specifically are more financial in nature. Seeing the sorry state of some the buildings, etc., I assume there are many funding shortages.

[1058]  Funding for National Guard units. Class IX $ are non existant. Training opportunities have been greatly reduced due to reduction of funds. RMAs have been practically depleted. Officers often drill without pay just to keep up.

[1059]  None that I am aware of

[1060]  I believe that USMA has lost focus upon producing officers who want to command and lead combat arms formations. Many cadets I observed as a faculty member desired to do the softest duty possible as an officer and depart the service as quickly as possible. I think this has occurred because of a desire to produce equal opportunity for all cadets (gender equality), which took the emphasis away from becoming infantry, armor officers, etc. This is apparent by the choice of names during Buckner (maneuver light vs Infantry week, etc.) I also believe USAR vs RA commissions diminishes the prestige of a West Point commission. Commissioning a USMA 2LT in the USAR sends a message of lack of commitment from the army to a young officer. This lack of commitment is then recipricated when many recent graduates take the opportunity to depart the Army even prior to the completion of their initial tour of obligation is complete.

[1061]  Bosnia operations are destroying the desire of a lot of graduates to remain in the military. Since the majority of WP Grads are Combat Arms, it is the CA Officers who are suffering the most.

[1062]  I am extraordinarily disappointed in the Army's decision to give the Academy graduates Reserve Commissions!

[1063]  I have watched, with great concern, the rapid drawdown of the Military. I went off Active Duty on 28 September 1992 as part of a Voluntary Separation process. My year group was facing a RIF and I did what was best for my family. But I have continued to serve in the USAR and currently teach Command and General Staff College in the Reserve School System. I have watched many other good Officers, NCO's and Soldiers leave the military as part of the drawdown. I have watched USAREUR, once a show piece, become hollow and ineffective. My comments in question #28 above are yet another indication of how hard, fast and far the drawdown has affected the Military -- if USMA can slip into decay... I have watched politics dictate base closures (Homestead AFB as an example) rather than Readiness. I am very concerned that our Military is being asked to do so much more (operations other than war) with so much less. I have worked at HQ USAREUR in Heidelberg (as a Government Contractor) an at USCENTCOM at MacDill AFB (also as a Government Contractor) and seen the trend continue. I fear that soon our Military will become so crippled that we may not be able to respond quick enough when called. I am very worried that the short sightedness of our elected officials may mortgage my childrens future and freedom.

[1064]  Loss of Officers Clubs and traditions of the officer Corps. Deterioration of commissary,PX, and health care.

[1065]  Concerned about the apparent drift from military discipline to civil-libertarian style of leadership. Too damn bad.

[1066]  I strongly believe the Regular Commission is necessary to be granted to each new USMA graduate. I also believe this should be done for each DMG.

[1067]  I am concerned with the performance of the President and Congress, their attitude toward defense and training, use of military force and leadership ability. It could be they are the image of the weak people they represent.

[1068]  The United States Military Academy is one of the most well-known and respected military schools in the world and yet it is not funded by the government the way it was until recently. If the government is going to reap the benefits of an annual product of US Army officers trained in a rigorous environment recognized the world over, it needs to fund the academy fully. This is an Active Duty military installation.

[1069]  I am not pleased with the loss of Regular Army Commission to graduates. This dilutes the attendance and will lead to a lessening of the value of the Academy to the Nation.

[1070]  I am concerned about the civilianization of the faculty--as are several classmates who are currently on staff. I note that USNA is apparently attempting to lower the civilian/military faculty ratio.

[1071]  The entire matter of the role of women in the military is a political circus. It is going to take a disaster (the Gulf War was VERY atypical) to force the politicians to face reality.

[1072]  1. Gender intergrated training: how will USMA be affected? 2. The ever shrinking Active Army versus the perception that RC units can fill the void: avoiding a war over AC and RC, the USMA issues is selling the continued need for a professional officer corps with USMA grads leading the way.

[1073]  Regular Army commissions for graduates.

[1074]  No aware of any - there's an annual push to eliminate academies

[1075]  I am concerned that graduates are receiving Reserve commissions rather than Regular Army commissions.

[1076]  plan to increase number of civilian professors at USMA

[1077]  ISTJ domination in high ranks

[1078]  Congressional funding support for the Military Academys.

[1079]  The Army's recent direction of segregating sexes in basic training seems to be a floundering of ideals and principals. This action will not have significant effect on the abuse/discrimination alleged to be taking place in our units, but may set back the excellent integration the Army has done of females into our branch of service. West Point should take it's rightful leadership role, and wave a proud flag as to how women can be succussfuly integrated into the service.

[1080]  RA commissions not being granted to all graduates.

[1081]  Money for infrastructure -- keep the place functioning and looking good.

[1082]  reserve commissions, extended commitment (6 years), females in combat arms

[1083]  I still think four years of cadet training should qualify the graduate for a regular commission. I do not see the point of the ten or more years now being proposed.

[1084]  Every small step towards making USMA graduates like every other newly commissioned officer is a step toward making USMA irrelevant. I see changes such as opening all branches to cadets, versus the earlier emphasis on combat arms, except in very small numbers, as a movement away from the key leadership positions in the Army. It's understandable to want to infuse West Pointers throughout the Army, but we should be aware that in doing so we are taking our precious few resources and spreading them out to try to be everywhere instead of 'weighting the main effort', which I believe is the combat arms. We want to produce the Army's very best leaders. Concern over providing West Pointers an unfair advantage is misguided if it results in decreasing USMA's ability to commission the highest quality officers of character in the Army.

[1085]  Need more infomation

[1086]  West Point graduates should/must be commissioned as Regular Army officers and not as Reserve officers. As much as possible (barring gender or medical restrictions), West Point graduates must be combat arms officers (or at least "detailed" combat arms).

[1087]  I am not aware of all the changes regarding WP.

[1088]  The Army has been rushed into adopting a new set of "Values" with which I am somewhat uncomfortable even though I was present when then MG Chilcoat laid them down for the first time. Those values, West Point's "values" and the true Values of our profession need to thorough, professional scrub down. We do not need to fix what ain't broke, but we need to know what is and why.

[1089]  Inadequate funding and women in combat and homosexuals policy

[1090]  Downsizing and underfunding continue to impact Graduates who remain on active duty or are serving in the Guard or Reserves. The "One Army" Concept and "Total Force" have been seriously eroded since 1990. The fact that the available choices for Question #5 to this Survey do not include any Reserve Component options is perhaps indicative of the overall lack of focus on this large and important portion of our Defense forces. Many of us have chosen to continue to serve - either full or part time - in the Guard and Reserves. This service should be recognized, not ignored.

[1091]  1. Continuiously declining funding. 2. Elimination of the Regular Army commission for graduates and substituting Reserve commissions for all new officers.

[1092]  RA commissioning...see above. Athletic facilities, or lack thereof.

[1093]  Commission obligation

[1094]  funding support levels. USMA is a unique entity in the Army as an academy and with continuing lack of military experience in Congress, am concerned about defending funds neeeded to keep USMA a world class institution in current resource environment. AOG can get out and tell the story as way of helping...

[1095]  not aware of any at this time

[1096]  1. See RA Commission above.

[1097]  WP graduates getting Reserve Commissions vice Regular Army Commissions.

[1098]  training.

[1099]  1. Proposals to reduce the the role of or eliminate the academy 2. Political activities by DoD and the executive branch that mire the academy in politically correct activities instead of professional development. 3. New Academy mission statement.

[1100]  I'm concerned at the services response to the blue ribbon panel's recommendations on training women. The dumbing down of training standards -- reducing the warrior focus in the name of political correctness is wrong. It cost us efficiency in Desert Storm and will cost us lives if we have to do another live fire exercise.

[1101]  Same as above

[1102]  Many congressmen and army officers believe USMA grads are no different than ROTC/OCS grads. I believe new 2LTs are better prepared by USMA than the other commissioning sources. Having three main commissioning sources (USMA/ROTC/OCS) provides a broad and necessary perspective to the Army. I am concerned that RA commissions are no longer available to USMA grads at commissioning. Getting an RA commission was one reason I went to USMA. I am sorry to see that RA commissions mean nothing anymore. They don't help during RIFs or the drawdown process.

[1103]  See above

[1104]  FEMALE CADETS

[1105]  The perennial initiative to close the Academy(s)

[1106]  I don't think the Army should release graduates before they have completed their active duty commitment. Now we have high school students looking at the Academies hoping they will really only have to serve two years . . . and graduates and the country who are "cheated" out of the benefits of their completing that five years. Cutting appropriated funds necessary to support the Nation's Service Academies is short-sighted and a mistake. If the Nation thinks it is important to have service academies and takes pride in the type of leaders with character that the academies produce, then the Nation should pick up the tab for all of the bricks and mortar and educational expenses associated with producing those leaders. The respective associations of graduates should help finance nice-to-have items and nice-to-do activities that are not fundamental to accomplishing the missions of the academies. I sense the Nation (manifested by Congress and the Department of Defense) lobbing some of its financial responsibilities over to the graduates and private industry because it thinks it can get away with it and that others will pick up the slack. That's unfortunate and wrong.

[1107]  1. Graduates should receive a regular commission. 2. Service Academies should have a realistic budget.

[1108]  Graduates should get a regular commission. The faculty should remain primarily military. The Army personnel system doesn't adequately protect the advancement potential (command selection) of the military faculty. USMA funding has been cut too much. So has funding for the rest of the Army.

[1109]  As a graduate after 31 Dec 1976, I received no VA educational benefits when I retired even though I was enlisted before attending the academy. I think that Congress should have grandfathered the classes that were at West Point when 31 Dec 76 rolled around.

[1110]  See above

[1111]  USMA grads should get RA commission. USMA, and the Army in general, needs to effectively "lobbying." The CSA cannot do it all, or even most of it. AOG should be independent of Supe and CSA on issues.

[1112]  1-decreased Def Budget 2-Integrity. It must be extreemely difficult for the Academy to teach right from wrong considering the examples set by our civilians leaders 3- Forced integration of Homosexuals and Women into traditionally male oriented environments

[1113]  Going toward a civilian based instructor core. Making graduates compete for RA appointments.

[1114]  I do not believe that 80% of the grads should be required to go Combat Arms. In the first place, combat arms branches are no longer the same as in the past. ADA, Aviation, and Engineer are classified CA but do not necessarily have the largest portion of their forces there. Some CS branches such as MP probably have a greater opportunity for engagement with the enemy than some CA Branches. We need to branch West Pointers based on the requirements of the Army, Period. We need them in other critical areas also. This policy becomes one of haves and have nots. It is not appropriate for a XXI Century Force.

[1115]  I am concerned that all USMA graduates now must compete for RA commissions with other commissioning sources

[1116]  Congress, Supreme Court and President are failing to uphold the morality and ideals that the nation and West Point were founded on. Many negative things are coming out of this and that is why the AOG and USMA need to be separate as the government forces changes upon society and the military (USMA included). Women in combat/ co-ed ships is an example (note: my sister graduated from USMA too and was an excellent officer but I would not want her on the front line for many professional reasons).

[1117]  Erosion of benefits. Failure by our Congressional representatives of a clear understanding of the value and freedoms that those who serve in the military provide and ensure our country

[1118]  Commissioning graduates in the USAR.

[1119]  Downsizing by pure headcount reduction as opposed to scaling back to "permanent grades" as was done in the 20's (imagine if we'd lost Ike, Patton, McArthur, Bradley and that whole host from the class of 1915)...reduction in service commitment requirements after graduation...loss of RA status...

[1120]  Sam Nunn's attack on the Reguklar Army is a great boon to the civilian economy; with nonregular status, the cement of dedication has too much sand in it.

[1121]  usma should receive more money from the govt to fully support the corps of cadets

[1122]  Reserve commissions to all officers.

[1123]  Regular Army commissions for gradutates - USMA is the premier source of Army officers. All graduates should have a Regular Army commision.

[1124]  There seems to be an occasional push to disprove the need for USMA. That push is justified by the writers with a comparison between ROTC and the Academies. The writers' premise is usually that the "product" is no different. I would like AOG to look out for these and answer the authors. I cannot see how an ROTC program can do the same thing that the military academies do, and to the same level of quality. That $100,000 education, a nickel at a time, is sure proving it's worth now, and still benefiting the federal government, as I am a federal employee.

[1125]  Use of our troops as "speed bumps" or "barriers" between warring factions is not a proper application of military forces. Providing support to international forces, such as the Peace Keeping forces in the Middle East in decades past is much more preferable than entire units being deployed to support an effort such as the one currently underway in Bosnia-Hercegovenia. Providing a battalion at a time is more in line with the amount of force we should be applying.

[1126]  Downsizing initiatives cutting too deeply

[1127]  I am only peripherally aware that there are those in Congress, the Defense Department and Department of the Army that would question USMA's continued existence. I would very much like to see a list of those that have openly stated such positions and their reasoning.

[1128]  Excessive delay in awarding RA commissions to grads. Excessive emphasis on "rights of women" at the expense of military effectiveness. Failure of Dept of the Army to get the necessary appropriations for needs of WP, in contrast to what the other services have done for their academies. Passivity of top Army management on these matters.

[1129]  plebe year is supposed to be a harsh environment; are stress cards on the horizon?

[1130]  Early out for graduates Budget reductions

[1131]  not that I can think of. Obviously I do not agree with the Reserve Commissions but...

[1132]  I am concerned that there may be efforts to reduce the role of the USMA or even close it.

[1133]  See above

[1134]  Regular commissions on graduating or shortly thereafter for USMA and ROTC distinguishedRichard C. Williams graduates

[1135]  The compromise of standards to accommodate the female population of the Corps.

[1136]  I still beleive graduates should receive a regular Army commission

[1137]  There seems a trend to civilianize the faculty of the academies. The best instructors are military officers who practice the values for our cadets to emulate.

[1138]  Although I understand why the Academy does not wish to make a stand on the issue of regular commissions for West Point graduates at this time, I hope it is not forgotten. I also hope that someone is working on making a strong stand on the issue of ROTC vs West Point as a source of future officers. I have not witnessed the committment of West Point grads to our military and country demonstrated by ROTC officers.

[1139]  Is it true that the withholding of RA commissions runs until promotion to Major? I thought it was a one-year delay.

[1140]  See above

[1141]  Sir/Ma'am, As I stated above, I am opposed to the reserve commisions given to cadets graduating from the academy. It is the MILITARY (hence the M in USMA) academy, not the hope to get the reserve commision academy. If a young man or woman wants that, they should go and be a ROTC soldier-not an USMA soldier.

[1142]  Reserve commissions for USMA graduates

[1143]  I think West Pointers should obey the laws of the land even more than anyone else. This applies to civilian leaders and the Congress. We should not expect career officers (or the Superintendent) to resign their commissions because of policy disagreements. Graduates who feel that the laws are wrong should work with their Comgressional representatives, not through West Point or its Association of graduates.

[1144]  What are they?

[1145]  Issue of moving women into combat roles Policy of early release of graduates from active duty without meeting service requirement

[1146]  General cutback in funds

[1147]  Only within the context of the way USMA or AOG speaks "for" me.

[1148]  The apparent Department of the Army pressure to pick Walter Cronkite for the Thayer Award. And I understand that the Academy has recently had a communist address the Corps. Both very poor role models for future officers.

[1149]  Women in Combat- its wrong- unjustified and unjustifiable except to appleazse the feminists. I can't imagine fighting a WWII type war with our current policies- Although its too ploitical to touch I am sure, The cost of this integration to the services is something I am not sure we would not even be allowed to evaluate objectively.

[1150]  While not confident that I know all the details involved, it does appear that there is a worrisome trend toward too much civilianization at the Academy - both academically and in military training and tradition.

[1151]  The current obligation time for the quality education!!!

[1152]  concerned that, without a unique and compelling reason to maintain the academy, Congress and/or the Army will close the academy.

[1153]  Loss of RA Commission for Academy Grads, ROTC Distinguished Grads, and OCS Grads. While few "real" benefits come with this, I think it may have an impact on future recruiting. But it is not worth the AOG risking it's tax-free status to fight at this time, given the slim chance of turning this around in the current political climate.

[1154]  RA versus USAR appointments. We are making a significant investment in the future of the Army. USAR appointments do not give the best return on investment.

[1155]  See #28.

[1156]  as stated above, the loss of Reg Army commissions.

[1157]  See #28

[1158]  Do not think that the military services and academies should discriminate against homosexuals. "The don't ask don't tell policy" is extremely degrading.

[1159]  Denying regular commissions at graduation negates the fundamental rational for military academies! If the hard demands and immersion training cadets experience before successfully graduating do not fully qualify them for a regular commission, then the internal programs and personal evaluations need to be revised! Do they get a more intensive evaluation in their first year as Second Lieutenents than in four years at the Academy? If this issue is not challenged, the next logical Congressional step would seem to be closure af all of the military academies.

[1160]  The practice of not granting regular Army commissions

[1161]  downsizing and it's impact on the military as a career

[1162]  See #28 above.

[1163]  Gays in the military (male of female)

[1164]  A major step backward occurred when USMA grads were no longer given RA commissions. It's indicative of my perception that decision makers no longer regard West Point as a unique and highly valued national institution.

[1165]  Reserve commissions to graduates

[1166]  Surely hope that an Army career remains atractive to our citizens.

[1167]  Reserve commissions

[1168]  Even though Regular Army commissions are meaningless now, I would still be in favor of USMA and DMG ROTC grads getting RA commissions.

[1169]  -Congressional discussions of eliminating academy -militayr use in peacekeeping and other non-traditional missions -Congressioanl resistance to close bases to keep troop strength and training funded

[1170]  The 6 (or 7??) year active duty commitment may deter strong cadet candidates from applying.

[1171]  Regular Army designation upon graduation. If Academy Graduates are not sufficiently differentiated either by selection or preparation, then don't support the overhead of the Academy. If we are different (and value-added) then differentiate from date of commission.

[1172]  1. The entire Officer Personnel Management System adversely impacts those graduates who attempt to live by the ideals of "Duty, Honor, Country." You may throw that out as an overstatement. People have conducted studies on why Graduates do not pursue Army careers beyond the mandatory term of service, but I have never seen this one listed as a reason. It appears anybody can come up with facts and statistics to support their own conclusions. 2. The change that mandates that West Point graduates are no longer Regular Army Second Lieutenants upon graduation is a concern. I have no information to judge the impact. 3. The civilianization of the faculty at West Point is a concern. I have no information to judge the impact. 4. The discussion about creating a graduate school at West Point is a concern. Do you want to continue to mold 18-22 year olds into "leaders of character" or do you want to create a "re-education camp" for selected ROTC and OCS graduates? I have no information to judge the impact. 5. I may be an "Old Grad", but I am still proud that the "old" Corps took the same basic course of study for four years and passed it, including the football players, and it was a good enough course of study to get some of us into a graduate school of engineering. Now that you have a proliferation of courses, I have not kept up to date to be aware of what makes the West Point education unique. Reckon you have to have retention, etc., or else the Congress would not consider you cost effective.

[1173]  Increased commitment and lack or RA commission are two examples of Congressional "chip shots" at the Academy that hamper it's recruiting of top quality students.

[1174]  Budget cuts.

[1175]  future of the academy in general

[1176]  Should not go beyond 25% civilian professor level.

[1177]  Primarily direction Army is taking - current missions focus on nation building (such as Bosnia); broadens commanders responsibilities into areas unfamiliar to the Army and may spread forces too thin to do any one thing well.

[1178]  The removal of the RA commissions. At least ROTC cadets have the opportunity to participate and get gredit for reserve duty and aply that towards pay and retirement. WP cadets cannot--I think they deserve something a little more.

[1179]  Reserve commissions to graduates.

[1180]  Many times it seems like ouside sources pressure USMA on certain honor cases. There seems to be a trend of more leniancy recently. I have seen recent USMA graduates which have been relieved and "kicked out" of the Army for: (1) Stealing (this was in my Battalion!) (2) Adultry We need to have a more rigid honor system that does not give second chances (because the Army certainly doesn't tolerate this).

[1181]  Political correctness and inclusionary policies that require lowering of standards

[1182]  medical care

[1183]  The use of officers and soldiers for missions which have little, if anything, to do with the national defense. Read the Philadelphia Inquirer's series entitled "Blackhawk Down" which outlays in painful detail the bungled mission in Somalia.

[1184]  Army and USMA still grappling with the issue of women. Haven't gotten it right yet.

[1185]  There's little point in saying this, because it does result from Congressional mandats, but, as an ex-Cadet, dismissed for Deficiency in Aptitude for Military Service (in spite of my 22 years active duty), I must wonder how the cadet I was would fare in today's environment at USMA (or USNA, USAFA, USCGA, or USMMA). I believe that I was being trained to be the MSOBITV, yet failed to properly absorb that lesson. Thus, I was sent off to exercise my option to be a Topographic Engineer and the uniformed services' premier geodesist, rather than the country having to take the chance that I'd be called on to try to be the next Stonewall Jackson. As a taxpayer, it distresses me how many grads I meet who resign at the end of their Initial Obligated Term of Service. Note that the last three CJCS's, all most impressive officers, have been non-grads. And while it is notable that the Department of the Navy has had the overwhelming bulk of the "people problems" (Walker, Lonetree, the "Iowa", the "Nimitz", Ollie North, Adm Boorda, to say nothing of 2 major cheating scandals, rape, murder, drug dealing and a car theft ring at Annapolis) over the last 25 years as compared with the Army and Air Force, I find it strange that in the Marine Corps environment in which I now work, the graduates of Duke NROTC are far and away better officers that the USNA grads. Bottom line: I think Congress has gutted the Academies from what they were intended to be when they were established.

[1186]  The impact of downsizing on the options available to graduates from the academy. The fact that some graduates may be required to go to reserve status upon graduation. The potential for a reduction in the number of qualified minority and other applicants due to a reduction in overall benefits from a career of service to the Nation and the Army.

[1187]  Shrinking budgets seem to be putting USMA's ability to provide a truly world class military education and training program at risk. I have been solicited for funds by my class. Why should I personnally pay for the education of cadets - the nation's future military leaders? If the U.S. is not will to invest in the Corps of Cadets, then a second rate military may ultimately follow. That seems to be the choice of our citizenry and their elected leaders - they can live with it.

[1188]  Not sure what "mandates" are in question.

[1189]  1. Although these are not new issues, I remain concerned with: (a) Congressional mandate to end the policy of granting Regular Army commissions for West Point graduates, (b) Impact of increasing civilianization of USMA faculty as mandated by the Senate Armed Services Committee

[1190]  USMA is becoming more and more out of touch with the Army at large. This is true of both its recent graduates and the current USMA permanent faculty.

[1191]  1. Although these are not new issues, I remain concerned with: (a) Congressional mandate to end the policy of granting Regular Army commissions for West Point graduates, (b) Impact of increasing civilianization of USMA faculty as mandated by the Senate Armed Services Committee

[1192]  Graduates not receiving a Regular Army commission.

[1193]  I AM CONCERNED ABOUT ANY TALK OF SERVICE ACADEMY RELEVANCE. ANTICIPATE THAT USMA WILL COME UNDER INCREASED FUTURE EXAMINATION.

[1194]  -Reserve commisions for graduates -Commissioning graduates in other service branches

[1195]  See above.

[1196]  Fourth Class system No RA commissions

[1197]  Both USMA and ROTC graduates should be allowed to compete, upon graduation, for immediate Regular Army appointments. Why wait X years?

[1198]  1. Congressional change in law that denies regular commission on graduation. 2. DA implementation of that change to require promotion to O-4 before consideration 3. Congressional mandate for women in combat abd near-combat forces. 4. DA implementation of that mandate by downgrading standards.

[1199]  Fed Budget being balanced by reductions in uniformed services--although USMA is an American "institution" it is still vulnerable due to continuing fiscal pressures

[1200]  1. Section 501 commissioning all in reserves. 2, The 1980 Defense Officer Personnel Management Act. 3. The requirement for more civilian professors and instructors.

[1201]  !. Assign graduates to COMBAT ARMS. 2. Graduates MUST be commissioned in the RA. 3. Funding should be supported by Congress

[1202]  I am concerned that the military is being stretched beyond its current capacties.

[1203]  Policies not safeguarding the concept of a Regular Army.

[1204]  Loss of RA Commissions for graduates.

[1205]  funding for programs that help develop cadets

[1206]  I believe I heard that cadets now graduate with reserve status. I was often prouder of my regular status than my school.

[1207]  Denigrating the value of graduation from West Point in the Regular Army commisioning process.

[1208]  I have been disturbed by what I feel is a "watering down" of what USMA's primary mission should be: developing combat leaders for the defense of our country. Stay the course!!!

[1209]  Different standards for female cadets.

[1210]  same as #28

[1211]  We need to quit pretending and lying about the women issue. Cadets graduate disillusioned about double standards and political correctness.

[1212]  Getting rid of the Regular Army commissions

[1213]  USMA grads should receive regular commission I suspect the next issue will be to cut or eliminate cadet pay and make the whole program an ROTC program... at first it will take the guise of a "scholarship" program then charge tuition or room and board and living expenses. All of this will be in the name of economics. AOG is helping foster this by funding more and more of the programs through contributions. I am closely connected with the Naval Academy through a sailing program and I see the same thing happening to Navy. USNA is looking for more and more via contributions of cash or kind and greater and greater relaince on "volunteer" work. The ties are being strained.

[1214]  Other than the periodic congressional and other challenges to the very existence of West Point.

[1215]  Lack of regular commissions until the rank of Major seems problematic, but I understand now is not the time to reopen the issue. Can be addressed at opportune time in future. I'm sure there are better brains than mine working on it.

[1216]  see question 28

[1217]  See above.

[1218]  Budget

[1219]  Public funding continues to decline - meaning private sector funding is inceasingly important to USMA. I fee that the AOG can help a great deal in filling that gap - I feel it's my duty as a grad to suport that effort...

[1220]  The rush to produce a balanced budget without dealing with "entitlement programs", by both the Administration and Congress, means that the brunt is being borne by DOD. The crunch is being felt by all services, but especially by the Army, as the largest service. The O and M funds are vanishing as DOD must continue to fund numerous deployments for "peacekeeping". The nation's civilian leadership is increasingly disconnected from the military as the generation which almost universally served is replaced by that which came of age after the draft ended. They need to be educated about the dangers of losing the edge militarily. While I support fiscal conservatism, the Defense budget should not be the sole item cut.

[1221]  Anything that detracts from the providing of warriors to our nation, i.e. the softening of the Academy in keeping with the social programs of this administration.

[1222]  Although not an Academy issue alone, the entire issue of women in combat, equal opportunities for women to rise to the highest ranks, men and women in the same barracks, women on Navy ships and dual sex training concern me. I perceive that many of our generals and admirals are more interested in being politically correct than in being concerned with combat capability. I know it's a tough issue, but more backbone is in order.

[1223]  1. Lack of RA commission at graduation. 2. Perceived erosion of retirement benefits. 3. Inadequate funding, especially for maintenance and upgrade of the facilities.

[1224]  The seeming imperitive to be "politically correct" in the current environment.

[1225]  downsizing of the Army

[1226]  Graduates need to be offered Regular Army commissions, along with DMG from ROTC and top OCS grdauates.

[1227]  West Point graduates (ditto for other service academies) should receive REGULAR COMMISSIONS upon graduation, not Reserve commissions. I know the AOG or Supe have chosen not to fight this, but I cannot see any good rationale for not fighting it.

[1228]  Graduates not receiving Regular Commissions upon graduations.

[1229]  I do not believe current trends/ideas in Congress, DOD, or DOA should significantly affect USMA. USMA should be as unchanging as possible; the one constant the country can look to. Our mission should not change every 10 years. Our basic military education should remain constant in principle.

[1230]  There probably are but I.m not aware of them.

[1231]  The Army is not a good place to be right now for the long term. It is a good experience for a couple of years, but certainly not a viable carreer for anyone interested in getting promoted, seeing their family, or being in a positive work environment. This hurts recruiting which hurts the Academy.

[1232]  I am sure there are such issues -- for example the active/reserve commission issue, but I do not know enough to comment on them intelligently.

[1233]  USMA must keep the media happy, which directly corresponds to keeping Congress happy, in order to maintain its funding. This leaves USMA at the mercy of the fickle opinion polls.

[1234]  Sorry, out of time. I believe you should, in the invitation to us to complete this survey, tell us about how long it is likely to take.

[1235]  Do not know how the Academy is implementing Affirmative Action. I support affirmative action but not quotas. Best qualified should be the standard regardless of race, creed or gender.

[1236]  I urge everyone to vote Republican

[1237]  The loss of the RA commission - though I am like many and don't really understand why it is such a big deal in 1998. Educate us on why we need to fight for it.

[1238]  The downsizing of the Military is concerning. Careers seem more unpredictable.

[1239]  The early release program to the National Guard allows young 2LT's with little or no experience to decide to go to the civilian world without getting a true feel for the Army lifestlye.

[1240]  Again, we should evaluate the purpose and function of West Point-it is the soldier it produces that makes it different. Not sure we are doing that any more.

[1241]  1. Allowing graduates to leave the Army before their commitment is fulfilled. 2. More concern with "sexual harrassment" than killing the enemy. 3. See the concerns listed

[1242]  Lack of funding for cadet programs other than academics/military. Physical plant maintenance is dismal in many areas. The Corps is twice the size it needs to be for the size of the active Army. Cut the Corps strength and funds should become available for needed programs.

[1243]  Not commissioning graduates in the Regular Army.

[1244]  having a draft dodger as commander-in-chief

[1245]  The change from Regular to Reserve Commissions upon graduation.

[1246]  Budget of the Academy can not be elastic. Some of the budget problems of the Academy can and should be fixed internally. Others, maintenance of facilities and quality meals for the cadets are the direct responsibility of Congress and DoD and they need to anti up to those responsibilities. Private fund raising does not have a place in facilities management and similar issues. Private fundraising should focus only on increasing the opportunities for valuable experiences on the part of the cadets.

[1247]  My concerns are all pretty much centered on the lack of moral leadership and character from the Oval Office at this point. I'm both embarassed and ashamed of our national leadership (or lack thereof.)

[1248]  Defense narrow-mindedness and continuous cries of a need to tighten the belt, while purchasing $9 billion submarines and 300 million dollar airplanes.

[1249]  The denial of a Regular Army commisssion to graduates. Such denial removes a certain amount of the emotional/intellectual "glue" that binds the graduate to the service, and perhaps may sub-consciously provide him/her a seemingly feasible reason for opting out of the service at the expiration of the required number of service years.

[1250]  Current downsizing efforts.

[1251]  1. Same as above.

[1252]  The reduction of the force to the point where a rapid, effective, and sustained response is not possible.

[1253]  I have already cited the RA commission upon graduation problem. Both the cadets and DMG's and other commission sources need that enticement if they are going to retain sufficent numbers to guarantee the future of USMA as well as the Army itself.

[1254]  USMA grads should receive an RA commission. I concede that we may not be able to change this, but it's still wrong.

[1255]  See the above comment plus the failure to persuade the Congress to continue to give all graduates a RA commission on graduation.

[1256]  Decreasing the size of the academies.

[1257]  1. The removal of Regular Army commissions was a major mistake. 2. Allowing graduates to choose a non-combat arms branch will be the single most negative impact on the Academy and the Army. It weakens our 200 year old mission and gives Congress ammunition against us if they ever take a look. 3. Reducing the ability of all combat arms LTs to attend Ranger school degrades the training of young officers.

[1258]  I am always concerned when members of congress or other influential groups challenge the value/worth of the service academies.

[1259]  someday

[1260]  It is my impression that there has been significant pressure from Congress in last several years to cut funding to Academies which jeopardized our ability to provide certain programs, make needed improvements in facilities, etc. I hope that the Association can have an impact in helping Congress to understand the value of the Academies and the vital role they play in providing leaders of character for our country, military and otherwise. While I have not been real active in keeping up with all of these issues, I am interested and concerned and willing to get involved as necessary.

[1261]  Too many members of Congress erroneously attempt to directly compare the service academies with universities as effective sources of career military commissioned officers. These members consistently fail to appreciate the unique mission of the academies. It is more than a dollar cost effectiveness issue, and the nation's long term security is at stake. Somehow all of us need to be more effective in getting that point across..

[1262]  I sense a move to reduce the size of the school or perhaps eliminate it altogether - which has been a thrust at other times in the history of USMA.

[1263]  I think that it is a travesty that there are so few opportunities in the Army for USMA Grads. My Class basically left the service in mass due to the lack of opportunities. Recently, USMA has become one of the best Corporate training grounds in the country. My background as a West Pointer has been alot more beneficial in the corporate world than it ever was in the army. Who would have ever believed that???

[1264]  - RA commissions to graduates must be retained. - adequate funding (appropriated) for facilities and cadet development

[1265]  Heard rumors of the commissioning process changing for cadets that did not sound positive.

[1266]  The demise of regular commissions. What is West Point for if not to train regular officers?

[1267]  budget cuts

[1268]  There is too much emphasis on gender integration. This is a training distractor. The time spent on "warm and fuzzy" aspects is that less time that can be spent on learning to fight.

[1269]  RA commissions

[1270]  As in 28,above

[1271]  military downszing

[1272]  Reductions in authorized enrollment or size of the Corps of Cadets and reductions in funding for USMA. Regular Army commissions no longer given upon graduation.

[1273]  Downturn of Army Endstrength limiting accession to Army Duties, Impact of "Nation Building"/Police Activities significant departures from Traditional Recognized Warfighting Activities-providing significant departures from Training at USMA.

[1274]  The Army is growing smaller, and technology is being emphasized. While important, the human is more important, and should be emphasized much more. I feel that we may indeed be making the Army too small, and de-emphasizing the individual and his contribution.

[1275]  * ODCSOPS/Department funding direction in POM

[1276]  The continuing debate concerning the need for a Military Academy. I think the risk is higher as budgets become tighter and more emphasais is placed on Reserves in the overall deefense planning.

[1277]  The ongoing controversy over women in the military and sexual harrassment in the Army is a continuing concern.

[1278]  Not giving Regular commissions on graduation.

[1279]  I believe graduation without a Regular Army Commission is a strong deterent to recruiting for USMA.

[1280]  Discussion of seperate training for male and female recruits. All academys should strongly consider this. Old Lady Cliff would be an option for an all female Military Academy.

[1281]  Closing of academy's Reserve appointments of graduates

[1282]  Don't understand why early outs can apply to USMA graduates (i.e., prior to completion of the required years of service) I realize this was some time ago, but it still rankles!

[1283]  1. Commissioning Status of Academy Graduates 2. Long-term Congressional, DoD & Public support for all Service Academies 3. Maintaining the quality of "integrated" training & education at the Academies v. growing concerns in Basic Training of the Armed Forces

[1284]  see above

[1285]  Regular Army comissions for USMA Graduates and Distinguished ROTC Graduates: Change the rules to authomrize RA comissions.

[1286]  Reserve commissions Non combat arms branching

[1287]  See above.

[1288]  Not being commisioned upon graduation

[1289]  draw down

[1290]  Same as above.

[1291]  1. Congressional effort to consolidate Service Academies (if it still exists)

[1292]  Regular commissions Length of service Size of corps

[1293]  The afore-mentioned Regular commissions for USMA and selected ROTC grads.

[1294]  Gender, funding, quotas. Fewer and fewer congressional members and their staff have past military experience or understand the military requirements and commitments.

[1295]  While I am outside of that string of information I am certain that mandates of concern to the broad base of graduates should be continually screened with AOG being the best place for the screening process to take place.

[1296]  Pushing for women in combat roles. Hollywood may believe there will never be hand to hand combat again, but I am not ready to suggest the troops turn in their bayonets to be forged into hand held GPS units.

[1297]  Lack of Reg. Army commission, but I agree to let it rest until there is more support to gain from other governmental agencies (i.e. DOD, DOA, Congress).

[1298]  Reduction of academy funding and emphasis on other sources of officers

[1299]  1.) Budget cuts in the face of increasing operational demands. 2.) Congressional mandate of Civilian faculty.

[1300]  failure to receive a Regular Army commission upon graduation has negatively impacted the public perception of the West Point graduate.

[1301]  Grads should be commissioned RA in combat arms branches

[1302]  Funding

[1303]  Promotion lists which are not generated in an unbiased fashion based solely on performance or merit, but which are amended to reflect the equal opportunity policies of the DoD. This seems inconsistent with the equality/fairness ideals of the Academy An Army Body Composition Program which expends literally millions of man-hours a year to generate the Modern Cosmetic Army. If physical training and testing standards were appropriately set, the weight issue would be self-solving. If a soldier can perform, how important is his/her appearance? Train the way you fight. Take the hours spent chasing 600-9 and use them for battle drills and physical training.

[1304]  I feel(as do many other West Point graduates) that the Congressional Nomination system is now more seriously flawed than ever before. I will not get into the specifics here but I could write a book about the many outstanding candidates that have not been selected because of this outdated system. We must do something about this so that we do not lose the very best candidates.

[1305]  The continued cutbacks in the Army and its support system have caused an alarming number of my classmates (1993) to opt for a more lucrative life in the civilian sector. I fear that this trend will worsen if our already sparse benefits are significantly reduced. I talked with an '87 grad last week who informed me of pending legislation that would keep retirees from receiving their benefits until they are 65. If that is true, I have virtually no financial reason to remain in the Army past my company command. I hope this grad was misinformed. If he wasn't, this is a serious issue which will impact the caliber of both the officer and enlisted personnel in the Army.

[1306]  Congress controls our budget. Public opinion polls control our Congress. Media stories control the public opinion polls. Therefore, USMA must make sure all its media coverage is positive. In reckless pursuit of this objective, the Academy leadership over the years has eroded away many of the traditions that were once the essence and pride of West Point.

[1307]  The law which now prohibits the granting of a regular commission to academy graduates and to DMG from ROTC and OCS

[1308]  I am in favor of graduates continuing to receive regular army commissions.

[1309]  I'm not sufficiently qualified to answer this but tend to lean towards supporting the same concerns expressed by the AOG staff alone.

[1310]  The rumors that the Academies are not necessary. We all hope the mission is clear to Congress and a reduction in size of the military does not mean we need less leadership when/if needed to support political policy.

[1311]  Erosion of support for West Point as the Congressional membership has fewer persons who have served in the military.

[1312]  I fear a "witch hunt mentality" regarding reactions to allegations of sexual harassment in the ranks. While this is clearly a problem to be dealt with, I fear it has been over-politicized by DoD and the Congress. The role of females in the military need a close scrub.

[1313]  Wish I knew what they were. I feel they are there and need to be publicized in some forum that the grads could understand on comment. Perhaps a more regular survey on some of the issues would help. Not sure we cna get those things in the Assembly because everything in their I assume must appear very positive or it would be an embarassment. So some other vehicle is necessary to generate discussion and comments from grads.

[1314]  Cost cuts Reduction in the quality of benefits Rate of remote assignments (hardship tours) The married couples program

[1315]  Generally, for living in a dangerous world, I believe the level of defense spending is inadequate.

[1316]  Eroding of benefits and defense resources for USMA and all military.

[1317]  Loss of RA Commission

[1318]  All of the politically correct social engineering attenpts concern me, and I'm sure they include West Point. Keep the focus on warfighting/winning.

[1319]  Increase in mandatory service obligation following commissioning for recent graduates will make quality recruitment more difficult. Requirement for competition for regular army commissions will also hurt recruitment and is fundamentally unfair given the vastly different graduation requirements of W.P. vs most ROTC programs.

[1320]  Too many civilian instructors who don't understand the mission of the USMA and how to be role models in support of that mission. Too much concern for political correctness.

[1321]  Reserve Commission

[1322]  The Academy is becoming so much like a civilian school it is pathetic. What is the point of choosing West Point over ROTC if there is no difference?

[1323]  no time here--too long a topic.

[1324]  Concern about loosing funding.

[1325]  Homosexuals in the military and feminization of the armed forces.

[1326]  See note above.

[1327]  I am not aware of the line between what has been mandated by internal vs. external concerns.

[1328]  There are many. Continuing deterioriation of congressional support while in remission at present can and probably will reemerge after the next election. DoD handling of moral issues concerning it officer corp can damage troop morale and public confidence.

[1329]  The downsizing concerns me. Few schools provide the needed leadership development. It doesn't just happen.

[1330]  Academy graduates should receive a full Regular Army Commission status as opposed to just a Reserved Commission.

[1331]  Not currently informed to make a judgement.

[1332]  See response to previous question (#28)

[1333]  The congressional mandate of not giving a regular commission to graduates-and Distinguished ROTC grads- until midway through a career. The regular commission has always been a point of pride and reason for graduation from West Point.

[1334]  Loss of RA appointments for grads Farcical homosexual(clinton) policy in the military Incredible sexual harassment focus

[1335]  Lack of RA status for graduates. I realize that this is probably a dead issue, but now you know I'm reading the "Assembly".

[1336]  Retiree Health and Dental Care muddle.

[1337]  Budget cuts concern me. But I believe USMA leadership is working the issue.

[1338]  lowering military standards for special interest groups

[1339]  Elimination of Regular Army commissions at graduation - the difficult admissions to enter and the strenuous, but superior 4 year program at our exalted institution must provide the reward of the RA commission.

[1340]  The host of bad press for the military in general needs to be balanced by the positive contributions of the military and the Academy. Care should be taken in being lumped with the other academies.

[1341]  Less budget resources QDR Army Vision 2010 Army After Next

[1342]  Nothing Specific, but from time to time there are issues such as USMA vs. ROTC obligations.

[1343]  The hypersensitivity to sexual harrassment.

[1344]  - Loss of RA automatic RA commissions (I understand the realities of RA/USAR commissions, but the RA commission is symbolic of a long term committment to the army) - Early relases of USMA graduates. USMA graduates should be required to fulfill their service committment.

[1345]  Funding. The Supe's message continually points out that funding is decreased; therefore, a plea for increased Alumni support (even corporate support).

[1346]  See #28

[1347]  This is probably a good place for the AOG to get involved. I don't know enough about these mandates and other issues to comment here. Perhaps AOG could keep us grads informed on this (objectively, without the AOG take on the issue, so we can make our own judgement!)

[1348]  See #28 above.

[1349]  Continuing debate over closing/consolidating the Academies

[1350]  I am always concerned about periodic attacks on the need for service academies.

[1351]  The shrinking military budget and force makes it ulikely that even the MAJORITY of graduates now will be ABLE to make the Army a career. That was NOT the case 27 years ago when I went.

[1352]  Lowering budget and loss of emphasis in USMA

[1353]  Loss of Regular Commissioning Status

[1354]  Too many to list...the issues have to do with the values currently embraced by our society and their reflection among our senior political and military leaders.

[1355]  Cuts in defense spending

[1356]  Will there be further limitations on non-US cadets seeking acceptance to WP. ? Are the number of slots been reduced ? Regulated ?

[1357]  Reneging on promises Erosion of benefits Congressional moral decay

[1358]  Downsizing of the Corps.

[1359]  I don't, however, believe that this is the most appropriate forum for my views....

[1360]  I am glad to see that the DoD is finally cracking down on "dating" and fraternization, i.e. improper male/female relationships, within our armed forces and is working more toward enforcing proper military discipline. I have personally seen, especially in my "field Army" time, how dating and fraternization can have an extremely negative impact on unit cohesion, morale, and overall effectiveness (combat-readiness). We (USMA staff, faculty, and AOG) need to seriously work on this at USMA because it is a BIG problem within the Corps today. Many (most?) cadets today view themselves as "college students" as opposed to professional U.S. Army soldiers and officers-in-training. NOTE: More and more people at West Point (staff, faculty, employees) are now referring to the post as a "campus," Highland Falls as a "college town," the barracks as "dormatories," cadets as "students," First Classmen as "seniors," Plebes as "freshmen," etc. The increased numbers of civilian professors, many of whom have never served in any of the armed forces, may be contributing to this current "paradigm shift." As such (college students vs. soldiers/officers-in-training), cadets want to be able to participate in male/female relationships as do their peers at Penn State or Syracuse universities. What I have personally observed during my past three years at USMA is that cadets are lowering standards of conduct and discipline in order to improve their chances of getting a date. USMA NEEDS RENEWED EMPHASIS ON APPLYING DOD STANDARDS OF CONDUCT AND PROFESSIONALISM.

[1361]  Withholding of regular commissions from new graduates

[1362]  SEE ABOVE

[1363]  The growing ranks of those who do not believe we need service academies.

[1364]  West Point should develop officers for the combat arms, and women should participate fully or be excluded fully. If they participate, all should be on equal footing, with equal requirements. No special evaluations so they can "meet" the minimum requirements.

[1365]  1. The elimination of a regular commission in the U.S. Army for all commissioned graduates.

[1366]  Military doing non-military missions (tasks that belong to the red cross or welfare system)

[1367]  Again - not as informed as I should be here - am not really up-to-date on what madnates there are - but I am confident I would be concerned about some. I guess since I can' give a solid NO I must give an uninformed YES.

[1368]  RA Commissioning

[1369]  The concept of graduates receiving reserve commissions. Bad idea!

[1370]  The continual push to neuter males and females via the "women in the Army" and "women in combat" initiatives that have caused so many problems. The sexes are, in many respects, dissimilar...thank God...and our leaders need to recognize these differences rather than trying to minimize or ignore them. Women certainly have a place in our Armed Forces, but not at the expense of lowering or changing standards in order to qualify them.

[1371]  Loss of the RA Commission may be the first step towards eliminating the Academies altogether.

[1372]  I am concerned that the capabilities of the military are being limited to a scope smaller than the potential demands that may be made upon it.

[1373]  Don't Ask/Don't Tell Policy Increasing abuse of sexual harassment claims. Increasing fear of males have of working with, for, or over females due to the absurd number of crying wolf cases. Media obtrusiveness in Academy business which they neither understand nor seek to become informed about.

[1374]  Reduction of army APFT standard. Witchhunt on racism and sexual harassment

[1375]  "Gender equity" issues still confound everyone. I agree with the recent Kassabaum-Baker report.

[1376]  What concerns me is what I see happening at West Point. That is where the rubber meets the road. We need to stop passing blame to everyone else.

[1377]  The more with less philosophy and the continuing downward spiraling of the force- effecting our military readiness.

[1378]  funding RA Commissions

[1379]  Pulling the RA commission from Academy graduates.

[1380]  I have been dissapointed that academy graduates were/are allowed to ETS prior to their commitment being up.

[1381]  I am concerened by any attempt to underfund the Military Academies. They are one of our finest institutions, and we should vigorously resist any attempt to diminish their programs. Their graduates have an overall beneficial effect on our society.

[1382]  Reserve commissions and poor selection rates for promotion to field grades.

[1383]  The reserve commission stinks; I'm worried that the academies will eventually be dissestablished. Also why can't athletes be allowed to go into the pros right after graduation if they pay off there education?

[1384]  RA commissions

[1385]  Budget cuts against the operating funds are a real worry!

[1386]  1. No more Regular Army Commissions for graduates. 2. The 10% USMA endstrength reduction (1992 or so) reduces the opportunities for a better officer corps.

[1387]  Reserve commissions on graduation. Early retirement programs. Spreading our military all over the globe.

[1388]  Cutting defense spending is hurting USMA and the Army. I find it very sad.

[1389]  Regular commission reinstatement! See above.

[1390]  Active commissions.

[1391]  I don't have time to elaborate on specifics at this time but would be happy to do so at a later date. Suffice it to say that the CSA and Supe need to take a stronger stand on Congressional, Defense or Army mandates that intuitively degrade the mission of USMA. Our leadership is too willing to be politically correct at the expense of our historical contribution to the defense of this great Country.

[1392]  Funding cutbacks are weakening the Academy's programs as well as the Army. When will the American public ever realize that being prepared for war is good armament politically, militarily and otherwise for preventing combat?

[1393]  Concerns regarding the future of USMA as an institution!

[1394]  The move to make academy graduates reserve officers.

[1395]  Based on Supt's presentation at last reunion, concerned about state of the facilities.

[1396]  homosexual issues

[1397]  --have not done enough research on this one yet BUT believe we need to relook the fact that USMA graduates no longer receive "INDEF" commissioning status

[1398]  Funding

[1399]  What concerns me most is the decline in benefits. Health care on some installations is poor at best. The 40% retirement, and now the 401K proposal, do not paint a bright picture for the future. Extended deployments are the rule, rather than the exception. In short, an officer these days may be forced to choose between what is best for his family and "a career of exemplary service to the nation."

[1400]  Possible closure of WP as an institution.

[1401]  I have been very impressed with the quality and professionalism of women graduates and I fully accept their integration into our academies. But I remain opposed to housing male and female cadets in the same barracks, and to the double (or somtimes reduced) standards which such full integration carries with it.

[1402]  As stated in #28 above, I see this as an initial step in questioning the need for USMA.

[1403]  Reestablish the RA commission upon graduation.

[1404]  I do not believe in the "sexual" liberalism that advocates equality for those who CHOOSE to practice homosexuality, or any other sexually deviant behavior. It is NOT the same as the gender or race issue, as gender and race distinctions are not made soley based on BEHAVIOR.

[1405]  Can not answer. I do not know what is or is not pending at this time.

[1406]  see above

[1407]  The potential for graduates not to receive a regular army commission in the future.

[1408]  The female issue, mostly political and not combat oriented. The prime mission of the Army is combat!

[1409]  The constant talk of closing or consolidating the academies.

[1410]  No regular commission on successful completion of USMA. If USMA is equivalent to ROTC, than eleminate WP and save taxpayer money. Some instructors should be civs; most should be military

[1411]  See #28.

[1412]  1. Dilution, chipping away, at retirement benefits. 2. Forfeiture of promised lifetime healthcare benefits for retirees and their family members. 3. Keeping anual military cost of living increases at least 1/2 percent behind all other Federal employees including members of Congress.

[1413]  Current information not comprehensive enought to cast an opinion

[1414]  female cadets meeting a different standard than male cadets.

[1415]  I am concerned that the CINC is not totally supportive of the Armed Forces and therefore USMA.

[1416]  See above

[1417]  The drawdowns (more to come)is changing our Army and all the services. As a current member of the Air War College I am amazed at all the recommendations to change the forces. From the Kelly Flynn incident to a proposal I heard in lecture to combine all the academies into one and reduce the overall size.

[1418]  Senate support for West Point seems to be lacking.

[1419]  As frequently seen in the past, the Academy will continue to experience pressure to conform to the current politically correct manner of recruiting, training, and graduating cadets that meet some standard other than what is necessary to meet the academy's mission and goal. We need to emphasize that we will go after, train, and graduate the best candidates we can, without regard to sex, race, etc. If we do this, the demographics will take care of themselves.

[1420]  The squeeze on the Academy's budget and resources; the delay in granting RA commissioned status.

[1421]  See answer to 28 above.

[1422]  Not granting RA commissions to USMA graduates is going to help do away with USMA eventually.

[1423]  Academies need the appropriatre funding. You do not get the same product as ROTC/OCS!

[1424]  I'm concerned about the role of Women in our Armed Forces. We need to be intelligent about the future policies we adopt and if they are clearly wrong and being forced upon us we need to stand up and tell it like it is. When the body bags start coming home the politicians won't be blamed, it will be the Army that is held responsible. Women can be very creative and make their contributions in a number of of mission essential assignments, so let's use their skills and talents wisely. We've had enough social experimentation for awhile.

[1425]  Role of women in the military in regards to co-educational training and possible expansion of women into combat related jobs. The Army's primary function should be national defense, not as a social laboratory.

[1426]  1. Regular Commissioning 2. Debasing of the ideals of Duty, Honor and Country by the Commander in Chief and his political appointes that carries down to the civilians in the Department of Defense. 3. Adequate infrastructure funding

[1427]  - Women in Combat Arms branches, and the double standard that exists in the military today between the sexes. We should take a hard look at the USMC, establish standards that are difficult and mean something, and stick to them. This experiment doesn't need to be tested on the battlefield with American lives at stake. - The Reduction in Force that will leave a "hollow Army" for our successors to rebuild, if we survive the current administration's efforts to dismantle if not destroy our armed forces. - The efforts by many in Congress to purchase unwanted or uneeded equipment or to keep empty bases open simply to keep defense dollars flowing into their districts or states does not set a standard of integrity that we should approve or tolerate. - Lack of any semblance of an Honor Code in the conduct of business. There is altogether too much backstabbing, political/personal agengas, "me first", "not in my backyard" attitudes, and not enough "for the good of all" attitudes in the Army and government today. - The idea that combat will produce US casualties is paralyzing our decision/policy making process. As a result the world sees the US as weak and vulnerable, because we panic at the first hint of casualties. Yes, we should strive to keep casualties to a minimum and employ every means to do so, but don't let the first casualty become the driver that changes our national policy or goals.

[1428]  lack of regular commissions

[1429]  Ongoing budget cuts in training and deteriorating benefits. These two things have significantly impacted morale in a negative way across the Army.

[1430]  See above

[1431]  The Army, and hence the Congress, are not dedicating sufficient resources to the Academy.

[1432]  There probably are some, but I am not aware of them.

[1433]  Different standards for the sexes.

[1434]  The elimination of Regular Army commisions to graduates.

[1435]  Obviously, adequate funding is a big issue.

[1436]  Pending change in USMA mission . Requirement for 9-12 years service before Regular Army commissioning. Possible inclusion of females in combat arms. Relaxation of Honor Code and plebe system.

[1437]  reduction in funding, class size for the academies.

[1438]  Regular commissions are being delayed to the detriment of retention of highly qualified officers.

[1439]  I have concern over the recent debate in Congress over the issue of men/women training and living together and its overall impact on West Point, and women at the Academy. Also, the annual debate over the type of commission (RA/USAR) that a West Point graduate receives.

[1440]  I am concerned that civilians, without experience in war, are being called upon to teach cadets at USMA, and that this is the direction that has been mandated from outside USMA, that USMA and the sister academies are being pushed to do other things than those for which they were originally designed to do.

[1441]  OBVIOUSLY, MIXING OF MEN AND WOMEN HAS HAD A DEVASTING IMPACT ON THE READINESS OF TROOPS.... I.E. RECRUITS AND DRILL INSTRUCTIONS... UNITS NEED TO MAINTAIN INTEGRITY...THROUGH SEPERATION.....

[1442]  - Reduction in Funding for USMA programs (causing cutbacks in clubs, sports, and other things that make life bearable at the Academy.) - Insufficient Capital Funding and Funds for USMA Infrastructure Repair and Upgrade. - Reduction in Army-wide Training Budgets (for ammo, etc.) - Reduction in Force (going too far-drawing down too much-while President expands presence worldwide on 'peacekeeping' missions.)

[1443]  Concern expressed in #28 above.

[1444]  Regular vs. Reserve Commissions for cadets on graduation.

[1445]  I agree with others that Academy grads should get Regular commissions. I think West Point ought to continue to lead the way for the Army in its gender integration policies, including barracks life and training and educating the genders together and not separately. I am in strong disagreement with the "commission" recommendations to separate men and women in basic and AIT, and would hate to see separate barracks housing and training at West Point. Can you imagine what would happen today if a Pentagon "commission", presented with problems between the races in basic and AIT, decided that the "solution" was to separate the races? West Point since 1976 has led the way in creating a gender integrated Army and should continue to do so. West Point and West Pointers have also been important in dealing with the racial problems which faced the Army for so many years after it was integrated racially in 1948 by President Truman. West Point should continue to foster the ideals of racial and gender integration, and should fight any movements by Congress or DOD to change these policies.

[1446]  I am of course concerned with the drop in financial support, but perhaps we are at a point when the graduates should take up more of the financial responsibility for keeping the Academy a top drawer organization.

[1447]  1. The obvious effort to destroy the academy by our previous House and Senate Armed Forces Committee Chairmen, Aspin and Nunn.

[1448]  Don't ask don't tell policy on homosexuals. US troops under Other than US Generals. (e.g., UN) Allowing any Commander-in-Chief that has any connection to subsersive organizations, or any anti-American activities (e.g., flag burning)

[1449]  We must be proactive in protecting the very existence of West Point at a level that can be sustained. We can't wait to be attacked that the education is too expensive. It isn't for what the country gets from our graduates. That message must get out more boldly. Internally, we must not dilute the academic standards.

[1450]  Yes, I think that the Army is once again becoming "hollow." There are too many missions for too few soldiers, and not enough money to support those soldiers. Also, I am concerned about the way our society is now looking to our military as some kind of armed "peace corps."

[1451]  The erosion of medical benefits after retirement.

[1452]  Funding of the corps and infrastructure at USMA. Downsizing of Army, expanded missions, morale, and retention rates of USMA grads. Is the Army still a fun, rewarding career?

[1453]  Regular Army commissions for graduates.

[1454]  Budgeting. It will never be sufficient enough to provide any of the academies with everything they need.

[1455]  Graduates not getting Regular Army Commissions is not a good idea.

[1456]  see above 28

[1457]  Segregation of men's and women's training.

[1458]  lack of RA commission for new graduates, that's simply the stupidist thing ever done to West Point

[1459]  The Army is shrinking. Should USMA shrink at the same rate?

[1460]  1. The requirement by Congress several years ago to increase the civilian faculty at West Point.

[1461]  the whole sexual harassment issue impacts negatively on the DoD, the Services and commissioning sources

[1462]  Reserve Commissions Overpopulation of the Corps of Cadets. Class size should be less than 500

[1463]  The dwindling number of USMA grads offerred active duty commissions upon graduation...

[1464]  Do not know of any; however I think this would be a role that the AOG should take on and keep Graduates informed of actions that are potentially prejudicial to USMA.

[1465]  Underfunding and the lack of a Regular commission

[1466]  In what year will our graduates once again receive a REGULAR ARMY Commission?

[1467]  WP is in danger of becoming a social experiment center instead of a military academy. I'm sure graduates have made this type of complaint for years, but I believe it's valid. Self-esteem of cadets and "developing the whole person" are better done at ROTC programs, and are probably done better there. West Point should separate the proverbial wheat from the chaff by challenging cadets to the maximum extent possible and eliminating those who do not meet the standard.

[1468]  Reserve commissions

[1469]  RA commission

[1470]  I am uninformed...

[1471]  Regular Army commission

[1472]  Great concern about the mandate by Congress to cease Regular Army commissions to new commissionees from USMA, ROTC and OCS. The prospect of a career with a Regular Commission is what motivates potential cadets to undergo the rigors and extensive grueling commitments that cadets undergo compared with peaceful, joyful civilian institutions. I speak from experience as a former member of the USMA faculty, during which I served as OIC of several cadet activities, in close contact with cadets, and two fine ROTC assignments at different stages of my career. I continue to maintain close contact with the ROTC programs of all services at UCLA, and see the deleterious effect of the new commissioning into the reserves ILO regular services. It is difficult enough to recruit the finer students required for the Academy and ROTC under the best of circumstances. This provides a disenchanting negative impact on the future status of both programs.

[1473]  Read #28

[1474]  Do not understand why not all USMA graduates are offered an RA commission.

[1475]  See #28.

[1476]  no RA cxommission on graduation

[1477]  New graduates do not receive Regular Army commissions. This is a serious mistake that strikes at the heart of why there is a West Point.

[1478]  The erosion of the U.S. Armed Forces in general. We are undermanned and spread too thin. We are losing quality soldiers because they are deployed so often and for so long. A career in the military is a great sacrifice of personal freedoms and personal life. By the cuts we have made in the Armed Forces, the scrifices made by our soldiers, sailors and airmen is greater than 10 years ago when I became a 2LT.

[1479]  Reduced funding for the Service Academies

[1480]  See answer to 28.

[1481]  PrimArily as expressed above. The academy has to make a substantive difference to the ARMY AND NATION! Are we; if so, who sees it?

[1482]  Recurring questions as to whether there should continue to have Service Academies

[1483]  The recent activities surrounding the training of the genders

[1484]  Possible secret agreements signed by the President and Congress turning control of US forces over to UN (or other foreign)command in America.

[1485]  The general erosion of benefits, repeal of RA commission upon graduation.

[1486]  See #2 above (Q:#28)

[1487]  Reduced support for the military

[1488]  Continued cuts in DoD

[1489]  Failure to fully fund O&M needs of USMA

[1490]  I do not like the idea of graduates now receiving a reserve commission.

[1491]  1. Lack of Regular Army Commission. 2. Insure a high % of military instructors/professors.

[1492]  I've been retired for almost 10 years so my information is second hand, but I'm told that many in the Army now are having to spend more time justifying their job and scrounging for funds than they are accomplishing their mission which seems to be a really sad state of affairs.

[1493]  Need to increase appropriated funding of this national institution.

[1494]  I know that all the Academies continue to be under intense scrutiny. The issue to laymen becomes, why have them at all, or can they be combined into one to reduce costs? The AOG and all grads must plan for the defense of the Academies.

[1495]  Continuing possibility of reducing the size of the Corps.

[1496]  Too many to list and since the people making the decisions are no longer in touch, both in the military and out, no reason to expound on them.

[1497]  I am concerned about the mandate to hire civilian instructors to replace the military officers.

[1498]  Funding for USMA

[1499]  Not aware of any mandates in the mill.

[1500]  The overall direction of the Army and the other services concerns me, not because of what the Army can or is doing, but the direction provided by the leadership of the country (read, President).

[1501]  Not receiving RA commissions across the board

[1502]  West Point cadets no longer get RA commissions. So what is the point of going through this difficult process if the students are treated the same as someone attending a local community college.

[1503]  In 1975, it was rumoured that the Supe stated that he would resign if WP were asked to accept female cadets. It was, he didn't. If he had, the outcome would have been the same, but what a grand jesture. Years before, LTG Gavin made a similar statement, but followed through. Realistically, WP must do what it is told, but some protest may be the right thing. WP must state and fight for its core values. In most cases, it does just that.

[1504]  Drawdown and tighter career opportunities

[1505]  The issue about drop RA commissions for USMA grads concerns me.

[1506]  The perception of most congressional leaders and staffers that an "Academy" education is not necessary and too expensive.

[1507]  I only become concerned when issues threaten the traditional mission of USMA.

[1508]  I feel that USMA cadets should receive a Regular Commission.

[1509]  See above

[1510]  Budget

[1511]  1. Above 2. Failure to figure out a way to include non-grad officers in West Point programs in a larger way. -CAS 3 change was an excellent opportunity missed. What about a graduate program --always rejected as taking away from Cadets but could be close by and receive the West Point imprint and further pull the military together.

[1512]  See belly-ache from #28.

[1513]  Elimination of RA commission for graduates.

[1514]  Congressional lack of support w/re to funding and the potential for close of the Military Academy

[1515]  Concerned with the latest studies of the Academies that show WP education as the most expensive without quantifying the cost benefit to the Army/Nation. We must loby hard to ensure such studies do not eat away at our institution's viability.

[1516]  1. The Tricare system is woefully inadequate and unfair to those who must rely on it. I sincerely hope that with this next round of personnel cuts, the savings will be directed towards this critical area. Can I count on AOG to represent us in this fight, or is it outside of its scope? 2. VHA. See comments above.

[1517]  see #28

[1518]  The Reserve Commissions given upon graduation. Understand the Supe's rationale for not pursuing the issue at this time, but believe that at some point, USMA should push to have the Regular Commissions restored.

[1519]  Again, the "political correctness" is worrisome.

[1520]  Adequate funding is always a concern. I'm also concerned about the career motivation impacts of the Reserve commission policy, as well as how USMA grads fare in the competition for Regular commissions.

[1521]  Funding cuts.

[1522]  Certain Congressional initiatives to close down academies.

[1523]  1. Funding level for USMA needs more support through appropriated funding. 2. Would prefer to have Regular Commissions reinstated for all commissioning sources, but do not believe USMA or AOG should open this issue at this tim

[1524]  I have a general concern that the present civilian leadership of the defense establishment is using the military for their social engineering experiments; to the detriment of combat readiness. However I am not in close enough contact with the Army or Reserves anymore to be familiar with specific issues.

[1525]  See my answer to question 28. I am concerned that the Acadmey Administration is trying to respond in a 'politically correct' way to every Congressional wind that blows.

[1526]  General lack of support in the congress. Reduced funding

[1527]  I've heard many times of need for private contributions for projects at USMA to keep facilities updated -- apparently due to reduced funding. Funding from Congress should not be reduced!!!! If we're going to have a world class military academy, it needs to be maintained!

[1528]  With the downsizing of the Arrmy, am concerned that the country will question the need for the Academy even more harshly than in the past. The criticism has the potential to negatively impact recruiting for the leaders of tomorrow. The Army must sent a clear signal that West Point has existed and must continue to exist in its national role of producing the military leaders of the future. Am concerned that the elected members of Congress and their staffs do not fully appreciate that critical national mission and that as time passes both groups will cease to be able to understand it. Basis for this concern is - How many of either group have ever served this country while wearing a uniform?

[1529]  Expansion of Army roles and missions, ie operations other than war, with dwimdling resources -- both manpower and materiel-wise Losing of good officers who no longer see the Army as a viable career

[1530]  Not informed of current issues.

[1531]  Lack of Regular Army Commissions for gradutes.

[1532]  Females. I believe the Corps would be better served by giving women the opportunity to pursue a military carreer by giving them an academy of their own. Combine the service academy female population together and give them the same standard of education only separate.

[1533]  See item #28.

[1534]  USAR versus RA commisions.

[1535]  Congressional and DoD attitude towards professional career soldiers is alarming, but much more could be added if time and space permitted.

[1536]  Disappearing Benefits Continued Downsizing Reduced Funding Low Moral Operational Tempo Deployments

[1537]  Lack of RA Commissions

[1538]  As the military has been drawn down, I feel there is more pressure than ever on the academies in terms of justifying their existence to Congress as they compete for shrinking defense dollars.

[1539]  I think the RA commission, even if largely symbolic, is a big deal. I'm glad to see so many alums addressing the issue in Assembly.

[1540]  I am concerned by Congressional efforts to consolidate service academies which I think is a bad idea.

[1541]  It seems that the rift between active and reserve US Army groups will not be sealed any time soon. The active Army leadership should come forward and deal honestly (and objectively) in designing the nations ground forces. If this leadership does not come forward soon, I think that our force structure will be decided "politically" and not necessarily whats best for the nation.

[1542]  Department of Defense "downsizing" appears to be too rapid. The current administration does not appear to think enough about the future of our defense as related to current actions with budget cuts. Domestic concerns are overshadowing the protection of our society as we know it.

[1543]  I continue to be concerned that the congress support funding at a level which enables USMA to grow and compete. Believe LTG Christman is doing a good job making the Army's case.

[1544]  As mentioned above, every budget cycle the issue of combining or eliminating the academies pops up. We should all be involved with the AOG, the Supe, the Army, the other services, and DOD in dealing with this troublesome, but persistent issue.

[1545]  Not giving graduates Regular Army commissions . West Point is not another ROTC college.

[1546]  You mean other than downsizing and the increased "OPTEMPO". I remember back to 1981 when DA came to West Point to talk about our careers. Basically the theme went -- don't get convicted of a felony and LTC is all but garanteed and most of you will make COL if you stay" or something to that effect. Talk about a sales job. I know that we could not have predicted the demise of the USSR but we were taught "no excuse, sir". Heck I am on a role. Since West Point produces the best officers for the Army, why isn't the promotion rate significantly higher than for other commissioning sources. Is it due to PC. The Regualar Army commissions have been removed and promotions are "comparable" so why do we even need West Point. Elitist mentality is not always a bad thing. West Point used to mean a great deal. It was hard to get in and even harder to graduate. But once into the army is many times seemed like a negative. WHY........???? Enough rambling....

[1547]  Funding levels

[1548]  President Clinton's policies regarding "Don't ask, Don't Tell", and women in combat.

[1549]  Work on quality of life issues in the army at large. One week on the DMZ in Korea and their billets and you really can't wonder why the army is experiencing a retention problem.

[1550]  LACK OF SUPPORT. WHAT IS THE ROLE OF WEST POINT IN THE FUTURE OF THE ARMY (ARMY AFTER NEXT).

[1551]  See my response to 16.

[1552]  * Loss of the RA commssion * Downsizing of the Corps * Mandate for increased civilian faculty * Continual budget cuts

[1553]  Army downsizing continues...

[1554]  I feel that President Clinton is trying to undermine the military.

[1555]  The mandate that USMA include women! This mandate on all US Gov't supported institutions is dumb!

[1556]  OPMS XXI - still not a clearly defined career path for success for technically inclined officers

[1557]  Using the DoD as the world's babysitters with additional funding to maintain training and capability to defend our country

[1558]  Support is waning in Congress. Cuts are expected because we don't push our own agenda - we do it the Army way which consistently means less funds and support.

[1559]  I don't care for the idea that the military can be used by the government to advance social agendas.

[1560]  I think that the Congress has no clue about the imnportance of West Point to ensure its future. We may have friends, but as more and more Congressmen are elected without prior military service, I worry that defense of our importance to the Army and the country will errode.

[1561]  Again the long probationary period before being elegible for RA status. While I support equal opportunity for women in the services I do not support their role in the combat arms. I believe that some elements of the DOD, DOA and Congress have been guilty of placing emphasis on conducting "social Experiments" with the services rather than supporting their main purpose which is to win wars.

[1562]  As explained above, I am concerned with the decreasing funding of USMA projects.

[1563]  Would like to see continued dialogue on integration of civilian faculty with military faculty - what is the current percentage of each, what is satisfaction level of cadets and faculty, etc.

[1564]  Lack of ethical leadership on behalf of the Commander-in-Chief

[1565]  Unaware of mandates that impact at the present time.

[1566]  Every once in a while their is a suggestion that maybe the USMA (and other service academies) are no longer necessary and their elimination could result in monetary savings. I don't know whether this is serious or just a congressperson grandstanding. At any rate we should develop a strategy to counter such nonsense.

[1567]  I'm concerned that the AOG may turn into a special interest lobby, merely by the tone of this question.

[1568]  Regular Army commissions for graduates;

[1569]  The question is too broad.

[1570]  The loss of an automatic Regular Army commission for graduates is a severe blow.

[1571]  see above

[1572]  Eroding of Active duty and retiree benefits: Medical, Dental, Commisary, PX, etc.

[1573]  The erosion of benefits (e.g., medical for both active and retirees) and other attempts to make military life less attractive both during service and during retirement.

[1574]  see above Also, a USMA graduate does not seem to be appreciated very much above the rank of major anymore in the US Army promotion system. some may see this as positive, which it is in many cases, however, the trend hardly seems to justify the very large investment in a USMA education.

[1575]  The general shift away from combat as the focus of the military establishment has filtered down to the Academy. Look at the things that are literally carved in stone (or cast in bronze) around West Point. Read General MacArthur's Thayer Award speech. Those things and others like them should be driving the train--not what would make some outside person (with zero military experience and no chance of getting killed as a result of unprepared military leaders) feel good about themself or the Academy.

[1576]  Not that I'm aware of anyway.

[1577]  I do not know. This was not a listed choice.

[1578]  We are hollowing out again. Too much "right sizing."

[1579]  diminishing and ever-changing military retirement benefits will hurt USMA in the long run

[1580]  Placing new graduates in reserve status Threat to the existence of USMA because of cost-saving initiatives

[1581]  The problem is not with the academies alone, but with the basic purpose of the military. Most of the Congressional members now have no military experience/background and do not understand what makes the military click. It appears to me that: the Academies now are looked upon as expensive Ivy League dinosaurs. Gone is the need to develop "combat leaders"; now we graduate a mishmash of everything that includes some combat leaders. I do not intend to belittle the outstanding men and women that graduate now; its just as an old soldier I see changes in the basic mission of the Academies that may be politrically correct, but to me are very hard to swallow.

[1582]  Always, the budget Always, failure of some in power to appreciate the value of the Academy and its graduates to the nation

[1583]  Integration of women into the combat arms.

[1584]  See answer to Question # 28.

[1585]  The military officer is now a lower middle class occupation, and we seem to be completely satisfied with that result. Military officers have never been paid particularly well, but in the past they have been afforded great respect as gentlemen. In our time those officers of extraordinary ability are leaving the service because they are not being rewarded materially or otherwise by continued service in uniform. Pay, housing, medical, and other benefits are declining relative to the benefits available in the civilian sector. Likewise officers are trusted less and worked harder than probably ever before. Going forward I do not see how we can attract superior talent to the officer corps unless we fundamentally change the structure of the army. (OPMS XXI is not the solution. The solution is as much about attitude as anything else.)

[1586]  The possible gender segregation of basic training is a huge step backwards. As a graduate of the first class with both men and women, the separtation of the two in any way always caused problems. Perceptions of inequity prevail in that situation. The best way is integration throughout all phases of training. This is what it's going to be like in the Army - get started right. (Don't just avoid the problems.)

[1587]  I would like to see a White Paper prepared by the AOG or other USMA affiliated organization which discusses Congressional, Defense, or Army mandates which effect West Point. Also, it would be of interest to read about the concerns the other Service Academies have and how they are dealing with them.

[1588]  Regular Army commissions upon graduation, term of service after graduation, lack of funds for USMA, amount of civilian professors, women's opportunities in combat arms.

[1589]  I am not current on the issues facing WP.

[1590]  I am very concerned about the lack of funding support by the Congress and the Army. USMA is the "nations" military academy and should be supported as such.

[1591]  A 35% retention rate ain't enough. If WP is graduating so many officers that there aren't enough RA slots for them all, cut back on the size of the Corps. But keep it tough!

[1592]  1. Allocation of adequate maintenance funds.

[1593]  Training standards should be high, and the same for both sexes

[1594]  The commissioning process for RA commissions is of concern, and the current fighting between the Active, Reserve, and National Guard organizations for money is a real problem - apparently even the Chief of Staff can't get peace in the family. The outcome of this could, possibly, affect USMAs long-term prospects.

[1595]  Listed above.

[1596]  The 'Don't ask, Don't Tell Policy" against Homosexuals. As a gay graduate I resent that my service to my country was considered as less than honorable.

[1597]  I am supportive of Regular commissions for all Academy graduates.

[1598]  See previous question.

[1599]  1) See above. 2) USMA should be a more visible part of the US Army, as the USAFA is a part of the USAF. The "Corona" meeting held at the USAFA are but one example.

[1600]  politicization of "women in the military" issues--in many cases it appears that civilian control of the military has overstepped its bounds in trying to overlay incompatible social issues on the military community

[1601]  The lack of a Regular Army commission concerns me, but I understand and agree with the policy to not pursue a change, as explained in the current Assembly.

[1602]  Budget cuts.

[1603]  Steady decline in the quality of officers currently running the Army over the past 6 years. I routinely come into contact with a number of decision-makers, (non-decision-makers), and am appalled at the rampant careerism in many post-cold-war RIF survivors. Too many of the self serving politicos are USMA graduates. Bad officers make bad policy. Too many of us are choosing the easier wrong.

[1604]  - Downsizing the Army is killing morale and commitment.

[1605]  See 28.

[1606]  Loss of RA commission.

[1607]  The all-Reserve Commission law for grads is troublesome to me, but my understanding is that DA and DoD leadership has accepted it for the indefinite future. Information does not seem to be available on the "true," long-range impacts of the law. Perhaps an Army analysis which tells the long-range impacts ON THE ARMY of the all-Reserve Commission policy, disseminated thru AOG, would be helpful.

[1608]  1. commission no longer to Regular status

[1609]  Please see #28 above.

[1610]  Not providing grads RA commissions

[1611]  I am a graduate and have been an ROTC Instructor and Commandant of Cadets at the University of Arkansas. USMA is the only place the Army has to insure it gets exactly what it needs for its officer base. It needs to provide the realistic needs of the Army. All cadets fit and authorized for combat arms should go there-- even if branch detailed for follow-on assignements to meet the needs of the Army.

[1612]  1)The fact that graduates do not receive a regular commission upon graduation. 2)The need to constantly justify the Academy's existence. 3)The initial length of service commitment for graduates.

[1613]  RA v. Reserve commissions.

[1614]  Yes--congressional mandates(as I understand it) that more of the academy faculty be civilianized. One of the greastest aspects of the junior major/senior captain rotating faculty was their ability to coach and mentor the cadets as they prepared to enter the profession of arms. Aside from the fact that American academia is one of the last bastions of socialism and communism--who are these folks (fine academics though they may be) to coach and mentor the cadets on the profession of arms. And if these civilian instructors are replacing your LTCs, and not the more junior rotating faculty, then who is going to mentor that new major as he/she heads off to CGSC and back out into the Army. The PAPs haven't been in the field force in years if not decades so either way someone, and the Army, loses.

[1615]  Eventually, we should return to the regular commission, but now is not the time to press the matter.

[1616]  1. The current defense funding trends may lead to an elimination of one or more academies. 2. I agree that graduates should be competitive for RA appointments but feel that a commitment has been made by the cadets and the Army should reciprocate earlier than the selection to major point.

[1617]  Lack of sufficient appropriated funding Quotas that permit unqualified persons to attend (based on my first hand experience as an assistant professor) Allowing grads to go non-combat arms Pay of cadets is too low for what they do and could be required to do Mixing women with men

[1618]  Possibility of closing Academy

[1619]  I'm sure there are some but I do not get enough information to know about them. Sounds like a service you could provide (see above).

[1620]  The drive to increase the number of civilian professors.

[1621]  perpetual challenges to finding adequate funding and support for our institution to continue to prepare men and women for service to the nation

[1622]  I am very opposed to the decision to not give RA commissions to USMA grads and to AROTC DMG's.

[1623]  Regular Army vs. Reserve appointments

[1624]  Again, not familiar with the potential issues. Sort of ignorant.

[1625]  Appears that we must keep our guard up in face of criticisms and desires to dilute honor system and questions on the merits of retaining the military academy.

[1626]  What is the status of consolidating academies or eliminating them altogether?

[1627]  length of duty obligation. Ablility to submit and get approval for unqualified resignations (even during "Desert Storm."

[1628]  The general requirement to reduce spending. I don't know how USMA is affected, but I imagine that it is. Still, USMA is a public institution, and while the AOG will hopefully be an effective spokesman in all public forums, in the end, Congressional, Defense, and Army mandates are a given.

[1629]  My observations do not leave me with the feeling that our military is getting stronger; rather I feel it is getting weaker. Lowering physical standards to accommodate females, promotions that suggest racial quota influence, regulations and missions which suggest more of a social experiment than being prepared to defeat an armed enemy; all cause me great distress. Unfortunately, I also realize that these concerns also reflect the general direction of the citizens of our country - so I must either accept them or be labeled another out of touch old (and crotchety) Grad. So be it!!

[1630]  Continued downsizing of the military.

[1631]  The Corps of Cadets needs to be downsized in relation to the number of commissioned officers. The Corps was 4,400 when the number of personnel in the active Army was 750k. Now that the active Army is smaller, the Corps should be reduced down to the 2,500 range.

[1632]  cost cutting

[1633]  I understand that the process to have more civilians in the academic departments are on hold. I did not like the concept of staffing instructor positions with additional civilians. In my opinion, we need Army officers as instructors to inspire and motivate cadets to serve as Army Officers. I would like to build back the prestige of Academy graduates being commissioned as Regular Army Officers. Any person who has successfully completed the rigorous education and pre-commissioning program through the academy should be required to serve a minimum of 5 years as an Army Officer. Too many graduates are leaving the Army before or at the 5 year mark. We may not be doing all we can to retain the quality leaders we spend so much time, effort and resources to develop at West Point.

[1634]  regular Army commissions downsizing the service academies multiple deployments in a smaller Army (I have a son in the Class of '98)

[1635]  Continually squeezing funding.

[1636]  See #28

[1637]  UNK

[1638]  See above

[1639]  Just concerned about the continual eroding of funding for the Academy.

[1640]  Budget cuts and their consequences.

[1641]  Faculty and Staff personnel reductions and their impact. Military/civilian faculty mix and analysis of shift toward greater civilian makeup.

[1642]  See #28

[1643]  see above

[1644]  making the academy just another college

[1645]  The survey from Question 18 on is garbled.

[1646]  1. still disagree with grads not geing recognized as RA. 2. Congress is not funding USMA sufficiently 3. move in the Congress and the US to downplay the need for the Service Academies 4. this problem will get worse as fewer and fewer members of Congress have ever served in the military

[1647]  RA commissions no longer to be given at graduation.Massive swing by military to one political party is dangerous. Federal budget tightening impacting mil. preparedness. Social welfare of lower ranks and families-housing,heaqlth care retirement benefits, not as promised.

[1648]  See 28.

[1649]  Please see #18 and #28 above

[1650]  social experimentations currently ongoing & those that are in the pipeline

[1651]  The mandate that USMA have 25% (is that correct?) civilian instructors! Bad. USMA must be seen as a plum assignment in order to attract the best officers (which we MUST do), and this will help kill that!

[1652]  1. RA Commission 2. Study of Separate Boot Camps for males and females 3. Funding for building/MCA projects at USMA

[1653]  See above. Also, I have the impression that the sense of honor among incoming cadets is lessening due to changes in society, and I'm not convinced that West Point is bringing them back 'into the fold' far enough.

[1654]  I am concerned when I hear about the possibility of combining all the Academies together and making one "combined forces" type of Academy.

[1655]  Commitment. Too many cadets that enter service do not seem to be committed to a career - in some cases to even fulfilling their obligation. Under the latest option to complete their obligation as a part of an RC unit, i noted at least 5 graduates from this area who opted fo this route.

[1656]  Will the mandatory service after graduating be increased? (it was 4/5 years when I graduated). It shouldn't.

[1657]  Regular Army commissions for 2LTs

[1658]  Regular Army commissions versus Reserve commisions

[1659]  The Army should take a page out of the Air Force's book concerning O&M funding for West Point. The pertinent point is that the 4-stars could agree internally among themselves on funding level distributions for the Academy from their separate appropriated O&M monies.

[1660]  The elimination of the USMA and all Academies. Many Congressmen think that the Academies have no purpose. Why train for war. Budget restraints

[1661]  Homosexuals in the military

[1662]  Erosion of the financial support and the moral will of Congress to continue the strong traditions of West Point to produce the highest quality, core combat leaders for the Army.

[1663]  Because of the downsizing process, the current Army climate is one of zero defects. I'm concerned that we lose a good number of our brightest grads because of the one mistake and you're out environment.

[1664]  Reserve commissions

[1665]  Same as 28 above

[1666]  I still do not agree with USMA graduates not received Regular Army commissions immediately upon graduation. Any cadet who completes the requirements for USMA graduation should be worthy of an RA commission. If a cadet is not worthy of an RA commission, he/she should not receive any kind of commission from USMA. This was the policy when I graduated; one of my classmates received a BS degree, but was not commissioned because of aptitude. The mandate is removing a lot of the prestige of being a USMA graduate. Do not roll over and play dead on this issue. Although the academy administration must implement the mandate, I believe the AOG should continue fighting it. Those of us not on active duty do not have the restrictions on us that our active duty brothers have.

[1667]  The integration of women in the service is being construed by the media here as a debacle. We could do much work in PR and in steady policy on this issue. I commanded and deployed an integrated unit. I have some experience in this area.

[1668]  1. The required commitment of service after graduation has become too large, and needlessly complicates the choice facing a high school student who must decide about coming to W.P. 2. I know that the policy not to give regular commissions at graduation bothers a number of grads. I would support giving regular commissions but do not feel that the current policy is particularly bad.

[1669]  Yes, but these are only sensings. I do not have a lot of trust in our political leaders and therefore am suspicious of their motivations. National policy dictated by narrow political agendas worry me, and I sense that a lot of that is creeping into policies governing the Academies.

[1670]  Some Congressmen and Senators appear to have a negative attitude towards the importance and need of the Academy. They look at the presumed cost of our graduates vs a small college ROTC/Direct Commission cost.

[1671]  Decreased funding for training on basic soldier skills of shoot and salute. Soldiers do not go the range often enough and more time is spent on handling politically correct missions (either in garrison or in the field) than on military traditions and discipline.

[1672]  I feel that the all of the service academies are threatened by the lack of service experience in our congressional and executive branches. We must become financially independent and legally separated from the congressional budgeting process. Our long term surviviability depends upon those that share the vision and the dedication to our mission, and that is us. (I know, POGO would be proud.)

[1673]  I do not really understand the question.

[1674]  Apparent cuts in budget Percentage of civilian instructors.

[1675]  The number of graduates continuing to serve on active duty is a concern of mine. My class had approximately 1/3 of the class still on active duty at the 10 year point. During the draw down I saw graduates released from active duty after only a couple of years of active duty. For whatever the reasons, civilian careers appear to be more attractive to graduates than active duty. Has anyone looked at this? If so, were the reasons valid enough to make any changes. There is a perception that the civilian community values a West Point education more than the Army does.

[1676]  I am concerned with any tampering of the Honor Code. Furthermore, I am very concerned about aloowing graduates to leave the Army before a five year obligation is completed. We are doing a disservice to both the graduate and the country by allowing USMA grads. to leave after two/three years. I spent seven years on Active duty and probably would have left the Army if offered the early out option. However, what I learned as a CPT in command was priceless and invaluable.

[1677]  Role of Academy as viewed by many members of Congress. It appears to be the typical peacetime solution of not keeping our forces ready for military emergencies in the world. Fact that troops are being kept in Bosnia beyond what was promised. This causes distrust not only of the administration but reflects adversely on the military also. Keeping the troops there may be correct - the point is how we kept the public informed on what was going on.

[1678]  Civilianization of faculty Too many females Reserve commissions

[1679]  1. The continuous reduction in appropriated funding 2. The change from Regular Army for all USMA graduates

[1680]  Reserve Commissions (against) Advanced Degrees (for)

[1681]  congressional/political direction of the program ie females, degress in economics, etc

[1682]  Decreased funding for all programs

[1683]  Duty status of newly commissioned 2LTs; USMA graduates competing w/ ROTC and OCS graduates for branch and active duty selection; Any downsizing of the Academy; Any changes to the composition/selection of instructor force;

[1684]  Not being awarded RA commission upon graduation

[1685]  Loss of the Regular Army Commission.

[1686]  Women training separately from men. If this course in The Army is pursued, then won't there be some recourse at WP?

[1687]  The RA commission issue; if a graduate has met the standards then he or she has earned the commission; consider the civilian counterpart who competes for a foreign service officer commisssion: woithout regard to their source of education, once they pass the statutory and departmental standards they earn their a commisssion; why should Army officers have added almost ex post facto constraints?

[1688]  loss of RA commissions

[1689]  The series of on going discussions that the future may not hold a place for the academys. That is just flat wrong, because as a prior ROTC cadet I know there is no university or college that can provide the same leadership, military and educational training like an academy.

[1690]  Efforts to close or change mission of USMA

[1691]  I believe the imposition of commissioning process to one of reserve comissions is countervailing to the origional mission of USMA.

[1692]  1.)The loss/curtailing/Tricare of medical benefits is getting a big unsat from families of graduates. 2.)Health benefits to active duty members in areas away from military hospitals is worse than Tricare. Minor health procedures are becoming major distractions/inconveniences from work. 3.)The lengthening of a military commitment by law to graduates of academies has an adverse effect. Telling an 18 year old the next 10 years are locked in by law does not motivate him. Building values and spirit of duty works much better than mandates. So does keeping promises of benefits to those who give 20 years of service to the nation. Breaking them cheapens all of the other promises made. It's better not to make promises we can't keep.

[1693]  Sadly, the desire to be inclusive has decreased military effectiveness and moral. All job standards must be based on rigid mental and physical requirements that meet the mission, not some social goals. West Point must provide leadership that is not afraid of being "politically incorrect."

[1694]  dual standards

[1695]  Not sure what these mandates are.

[1696]  I enter "No" only because I am presently unaware of any mandates, but I am also relatively confident there are several current Congressional and DoD that would concern me. It seems the Academy and AOG have refrained from advertising potentially detrimental Congressional and DoD proposals/mandates in the name of political correctness or fear of creating an uprising.

[1697]  No automatic RA Commissions

[1698]  General support of academies.

[1699]  Army is too worried about what the public thinks about the way it deals with women in th military and sexual harassment. Do what is right. but make sure that ALL are offered the same opportunity and measured against the SAME standard. If a woman, or a man for that matter can;t meet the standards then the should be eliminated.

[1700]  I am concerned with the continued reduced funding for the academy. I am sure that there are efficiencies to be found, but question the wisdom of continued funding reductions and congressional quesitoning of the need for the academies.

[1701]  Altho I consider myself an enlightened male, the Congressional direction relating to women in the military and the trauma the Army is currently experiencing with issues related to sexual harrassment (and worse) are closely related. The role USMA -- and the Army -- must play as leader in this national dialogue appear to be undermining the combat capability which is a cornerstone of the USMA mission. Although neither USMA nor the Army can avoid involvement in this fundamental struggle for equality of the sexes, the brunt of this social battle should be fought elsewhere.

[1702]  Reserve Commissioning of Graduates

[1703]  Sect 501 seems to bother everyone I come in contact with. I think AOG should get the straight story out to the graduates - since the consequencies seem grave to USMA and future cadets.As I understand the law, no graduate is eligible for a Reg Commision for at least one yr. THen I hear a grad has to wait until reaching Maj or maybe 10-12 yrs. Then I hear DOD left it up to the Services, and the Army did the Maj thing. What does the AOG and USMA perceive of what all this menns to the future of USMA?..

[1704]  Gays in the Military and women in combat. I don't agree with the current policy. I vote no to both.

[1705]  Very concerned about the recent statement by the SECDEF that all military personnel will be forced to receive ANTHRAX vaccine. Personnel in Desert Storm were forced to take pills whose effects are still unknown.

[1706]  The loss of Regular commissions upon graduation.

[1707]  Based on gut feeling and some contact with active duty personnel, the Army's morale appears to be in a nosedive since the early 1990s. The cause can be attributed to many things, some apparent, such as cutbacks. In general, I see a lack of focus and the lack of a clearly defined threat to be underlying factors. Our country's civil and military leaders need to get together to define why our military exists today.

[1708]  --Reserve commissions for grads and ROTC/OCS distinguished grads is a bad idea. Part of what makes the Academy "special". --Continued Congressional emphasis on disbanding the Academy in favor of "cheaper" ROTC. Remember, as in anything else, one gets what one pays for, and the defense of the country is not the place to skimp. No ROTC program in the country can equal the Academy experience.

[1709]  Political correctness

[1710]  I'm not well-versed, but I'm not particularly happy with it--see #28.

[1711]  It is my opinion, different from what it was some years ago, that the integration of women into the service academies, in the form that it has occurred, cannot endure indefinitely without irreparable damage to these institutions, and to the defense of the nation as a whole. Some kind of 'separate but equal' solution maybe the eventual necessary one. While it is politically and socially unacceptable to espouse this kind of opinion, much less currently to modify the mandates that enforce the current regime in this area, hopefully the farsighted among the leadership that have the same concern can begin to work sensitively but realistically in that direction.

[1712]  I am very displeased that USMA graduates are being commissioned with less than an RA commission.

[1713]  West Point graduates should be regular army officers upon graduation.

[1714]  Downsizing

[1715]  Overall reduction of TOTAL force to a strength where we aren't able to meet missions assigned w/o undue risk to the assigned units and/or country.

[1716]  I do not favor the current "Reserve Commission only" system. Also, I think federal funding ought to be increased.

[1717]  Funding support

[1718]  Strong emphasis by the present Administration and Defense to support policing actions such as Bosnia , Somalia, Haiti, etc. at the expense of Keeping units at full strength, well trained and ready for mission, equipped with up to date weapons and other equipment, and joint exercises to insure joint service coordination during actual emergencies.

[1719]  See above reference Regular Commissions

[1720]  The continued emphasis to push women into combat roles.

[1721]  Above

[1722]  - Ending the regular Army commission for graduates of the academy. I feel this was a great mistake. - At the time I was an instructor at the Academy, there was a growing perception that a tour there was no longer "career enhancing" as it once had been. In fact, some branches were telling us that it was damaging to your career to spend an average of 5 years devoted to the Academy (2 years of grad school and a 3 year tour out of the "main stream"). In more recent years, friends who have returned to instruct tell me this has become very evident in selection rates among mid-career officers stationed there. If this is not a mis-perception, it is very disturbing, and could be very destructive in the long run. One of the main problems I faced as an ROTC Batttalion Commander was that the young officers assigned to ROTC Cadet Command faced this same problem, and many left the service during or after their ROTC tour. This sent a definite message to cadets that was not an enhancement to the program. I would hate to see West Point with this problem.

[1723]  Current policy of offering Reserve Commissions to USMA graduates.

[1724]  Having attended USMA and taught ROTC I bellieve that USMA is being sold short on the quality of the product being produced. The politics projected by a closed system (ROTC) hinders the production of quality for the sake of attaining and maintaining numbers. In ROTC the same personnel are responsible for the recruitment, retention, training, evaluation and commissioning of students. Which serves as the basis for their own evaluation and professional survial. The ROTC product may be better socialized but not better trained. The USMA product is better trained but lacked the people skills which is changing by the direction of the academy. Recognizing what is actually transpiring for the sake of maintaininig a crediable Army is essential.

[1725]  Congress needs to never forget that a strong military presence in manpower and technology is what most troublesome nations understand and respect. This costs money,but is absolutely vital to our position in the world.

[1726]  Army downsizing, base closures, and budget cuts

[1727]  The privitization of the academy.

[1728]  I do not think that women and men should be segregated in AIT. I also don't think that women and men should be segregated at West Point at all.

[1729]  The downsizing of the total defense budget

[1730]  Elimination of RA commision for USMA grads.

[1731]  The lack of veterans in the upper echelons of the U.S. Government is quite concerning (Congress, Appointed Officials, etc.). The military services can probably not influence the outcome of elections; what does AOG and the U.S. Military do to educate those with no military background in Washington (other than the standard Congressional Briefing!).

[1732]  1) Smaller/lighter grenades so that females can throw and exceed the blast radius? Pathetic and deplorable if true. 2) Cohabitation of males/females in same wings of barracks, throughout basic training, etc. - some examples of failed social experimentation.

[1733]  Quotas for admission and cuts in the funding for the Academy.

[1734]  No longer giving Regular Army commissions really makes it no different from ROTC program.

[1735]  I am distressed when I see us drifting from the "citizen" army concept. There ought to be some sort of mandatory service of some sort for each citizen ... and we need short time Lt from the likes of Yale and Stanford in the officer ranks to keep the careerist in check. ... Also, more use of the reserve forces for their very logical roles ... ie use them at our borders rather than regular forces etc. etc.

[1736]  As I mentioned previous, the cessation of granting Academy Garduates a Regular Army commission.

[1737]  Congress appears to not understand the positive impact USMA has not only on our Army but also to the nation in general. I am disappointed that there is not a stronger appreciation for USMA. I am very concerned with discussion of funding cutbacks or even dismantling of USMA. I believe we (graduates, AOG) need to do a better job of marketing the positive impact USMA has on the welfare of our Army and our nation.

[1738]  Lack of RA commissions Lack of DA, DOD. and Congressional sufficient funding support

[1739]  USMA Graduates should still get Regular Army Active Duty commissions -- if others think this is not fair, they should have gone a different route!

[1740]  Standards for women in the military need to be high, if not the same as for men. Leader/subordinate relationships need to be maintained, not necessarily friendship between classes, although mentoring can be very helpful.

[1741]  I am aware that funding cutbacks may impact the quality of education provided.

[1742]  see above

[1743]  The apparent lack of defense funding coming through Congress & the President.

[1744]  Sexual harassment as it is being defined or perhaps as it is being created by current Army policies. If a male soldier chides or teases a female because they (the male) perceives that the women's Physical Fitness test standards unfairly favor women, that can be considered sexual harassment by the women. Women who respond to surveys that they have been subjected to sexual harassment often are referring to abusive comments that are the result of perceived more lenient standards of performance. I chose this example because, ironically, this situation and feeling is very prevalent. And, the Army has known for at least 8 -10 years that PT standards do favor women so that women do not have to exert themselves to the extent the men do in order to receive a maximum score on the test. These are not sexist comments on my part. They are based on fact. The problem is that the Army sets the standards and the women are meeting the established standards while knowing that the standards do not push them to the degree their male counterparts are pushed. Mixed Cadet male and female work groups formed in the late '80s/early '90s to review problems among the sexes at WP identified the inequities in the test. Unfortunately, there has been little honest movement by the Army to change the standards to make the test more equitable. This policy is hurting relationships at the Academy and in the Army. Women can handle more challenging standards. Numbers-wise we have fully integrated women into the Army. It is time to help fully integrate them as soldiers by eliminating the onerous dual-standards that help maintain barriers to fuller acceptance. (Dual, as used here, does not mean the same standard -- there are real physiological differences that prevent identical performance -- but rather, dual refers to standards that are unequal in the level of effort that is required to excel.)

[1745]  See # 15 above. I do not agree with keeping new grads out of the RA. Neither do I agree with allowing new grads to be assigned to non-combat branches with out a specified period in a combat branch for leadership experience. There ought to be many ways to include every grad (male or female) in a combat branch without placing such a person in illegal jepordy, even during war.

[1746]  Seems to be a slight more emphasis on having a career and vice having a profession.

[1747]  I would like to see merit and competence as the basis for selections for all jobs and promotions. It seems to me that we could support the Constitution of the the United States and not discriminate based on race, gender, age, etc. Perhaps we could be politically honest, and not politically correct.

[1748]  Decreasing funds Commisioning sources (RA vs. USAR) Read in the Army times that the RA commision has been done away with and replaced with something else. Do not know how this impacts USMA, but am concerned.

[1749]  as related to response in 28

[1750]  Elimination of regular commissions for academy graduates.

[1751]  1. Civilianization of faculty 2. Denying graduates regular commissions at graduation.

[1752]  The commissioning "debacle"--If there is no difference between our grads and others, then next step for our critics will be to close the place.

[1753]  1. Civilianization of faculty 2. Denying graduates regular commissions at graduation.

[1754]  Women in combat. Get them off of our ships, combat airplanes and away from the front lines. Get the academy refocused on its combat mission and readiness. Stop advertising cadetship as a means to a lucrative civilian career. Stop trying to be so "politically correct" (e.g., Cronkite as an honoree!)

[1755]  Some ask, who needs West Point? Its greatest contribution these days is it's 50% contribution to the A-N game... Rudyard Kipling provided an insight into what is happening when he wrote "Tommy." The Academy, that has served this Nation so well throughout the Academy's history, is being relegated to a second class status. It would appear that some in Congress have diminished expectations of USMA. When commissions are ranked equal to the weakest ROTC program, what is being said of the perceived value of the Academy experience? When the arguement is proffered that the Academy no longer generates the relative percentage of GOs it once did, I can only suggest that policy/law has made that happen--not the performance of the graduates. (This should be my intro, but I can't cut & paste.) Many have decried the breakup of the World Series Champion Florida Marlins. Cost allegedly was the issue. In a similar vein, West Point is not as dominant as it once was. What happened? Random thoughts....half empty glass....the rise and fall of great institutions....

[1756]  Pay raises by congress need to be put into effect. It is ever so easy for me to steal good people from the military for almost Twice their pay and my bosses think I am finding good folks dirt cheap.

[1757]  -Too many to list

[1758]  Certainly the reserve commission vs active commission, but I also understand that there is a right time and place for our attack on this issue

[1759]  As a cadet I was taught that the Honor Code was directly related to the Officer's Code of Conduct. I firmly believed that my words and actions should be a standard for everyone. However, I became very disillusioned to find that the Officer Code was nothing more than a series of well meaning words. While stationed in Germany, I managed to find a copy of a speech by Gen. Reimer (which our Battalion Commander refused to pass on to company grade officers) in which he stated the professional ethics of our officer corps were abysmal. I found, at least in USAREUR, an Army in which commanders ignored anything which did not support their view of reality and labeled those who raised objections as troublemakers. This was not the Army that West Point told me I would be part of. While leaving the Army I was asked repeatedly why I chose to leave. When I answered as I have above, I was greeted with skepticism, which only strengthened my resolve. I think you will find that the majority of young officers leaving today will have similar complaints.

[1760]  - Reserve Commissions - Use of military in drug enforcement operations - Homosexuals in the military

[1761]  Civilian faculty in place of military faculty

[1762]  Senator Nunn's mandate to civilianize the faculty. Removing the regular commission from graduates of USMA and honor grads of ROTC.

[1763]  military pay and benefits

[1764]  All graduates should and must go Regular Army, Active duty. Any other commission/duty may compromise the reason for USMA and the cadet common experience there.

[1765]  The proposal to make grads USAR officers is upsetting. You must fight this fight for as long as it takes. If there is no difference in commissioning,and therefore perceived professionalism,there is no reason for WP. Careerism is back, brought on by the drawdown and a lack of opportunities. Need to reinforce selfless service and other army values.

[1766]  Socialization of the military in general. It should not be a social experiment or a reflection of society. We need a new commander-in-chief.

[1767]  Erosion of Retirement Benefits. Lack of career security. Lack of professional recognition and/or promotion due to job performance.

[1768]  Erosion of Benefits

[1769]  See question/answer number 28

[1770]  The loss of the warrior spirit. Gender integrated training detracts from the soldierization process and should be opposed by the AOG.

[1771]  I cannot help but believe the "don't ask don't tell" policy creates more problems than it solves. This surely is a challenge for today's and tomorrow's leaders.

[1772]  Elimating COED basic training

[1773]  Benefit erosion Importance of Academies to the Nation

[1774]  Citizen soldier mythology. Will the core or the corp still hold?

[1775]  Reserve commissions. Allowing WP grads out early. Emphasis on pro football opportunities

[1776]  The difference between the three services approaches to funding their respective academies is of concern. The Army leadership is the poorest of the three in this regard.

[1777]  Cutbacks in active duty forces/heavy divisions is foolhardy.

[1778]  - As stated in #28, the apparent bad rapport USMA "enjoys", along with the USNA and USAFA. Not only the cost of running the academies, but the cheating scandles at the Naval Academy, and the sexual harrassement reports for both the Military and Naval ascademies do not help. How does USAFA stay out of the press? We need an improvement in our image. Out here in California, we do not have any image. I meet people who never heard of the Army-Navy game, much less the Military Academy. Incredable. - I am not concerned with the reserve vs the regulat commissions. If USMA is worth it, the grads will show it at Majority time.

[1779]  Reduction of appropriated funds. However, I understand Congress' action during peacetime.

[1780]  BRAC base/facility closures resulting in less than promised retirement benefits

[1781]  losing military focus

[1782]  Acctually, I do not know of any; maybe there are

[1783]  Too much emphasis on "political correctness" diminishes the reason for an academy..that is producing highly qualified Army officers. Paying speakers such as Pete Seeger to lecture cadets is an outrageous but illustrative example.

[1784]  Related to above concern about the long term return on investment for female graduates.

[1785]  Reserve commissions

[1786]  I am concerned with the Army's tendency to view policies in Politically Correct terms. The US military is not designed to have politically correct social welfare programs. The US Military's sole purpose is to train for and when required fight and win the country's wars in order to protect this nation and our way of life. To paraphrase/quote Ace Collins "If this country evr loses a war the Congress and the AMerican people will not be impressed, nor should they be, with the military's social welfare programs." I am also concerned with the Army's ethical leadership, strong tend to careerism, lack of concern with soldiers, ends justifying the means, etc. My view is that these ethical lapses are growing and are at their highest level now since I joined the Army.

[1787]  Re-evaluate what Nunns staffers did to include loss of initial RA commission

[1788]  1. The fact that graduates no longer receive a Regular Army commission. 2. Reduction in financial support for the Academy, requiring more effort on fund-raising for support of fundamental missions/needs.

[1789]  If the Army goes to segregated by sex basic training, would USMA have to follow for Beast Barracks? I would hope not.

[1790]  Loss of the regular commission is embarrasing

[1791]  National morals are sliding into a "trough," more emphasis on Judao-Christian heritage of morals is necessary to produce graduates of strongest moral fiber and character, essential to good leadership.

[1792]  See above

[1793]  see above

[1794]  I am very unhappy with the elimination of the Regular Army commission fro all graduates. All West Pointers should go on active duty. By eliminating the RA commission, we are opening the door to allow congress to cut our commissioning numbers, forcing us to either lower the number in the classes or let graduates go into the guard or reserve. To allow that to happen would forever devalue a West Point education. We would rank with the Citadel and VMI. What's the point? I also am concerned with the elimination of certain "institutions" within the academy like the fourth-class system and area tours. These apparently trivial things were a big part of my West Point experience, and I am thankful I had them. It was good enough for some of the greatest Americans in our history. A history P once said to me "Most of the history we teach was made by the people we taugh.t" I hope in 50 years, we will still be able to say that.

[1795]  John Glenn and his boys and their pursuit of the above mentioned changes.

[1796]  See Above.

[1797]  Integration of females into the fighting force. I don't believe this is a viable alternative in traditional warfare that I have experienced.

[1798]  The mandate that USMA produces a professional Army officer essentially equivalent to those from other commissioning sources. Numerous specific policies derive from this.

[1799]  More weight should be given to leadership at gradu- ation and less to academic achievement.

[1800]  Joint Service Academy consolidation

[1801]  General financial anemia causing Supt AOG etc to look for bequests etc to compensate for lack of MCA etc. National institution - an Executive, Legislative problem NOT graduates, generous benefactors etc.

[1802]  1. See item 28 above. 2. Delay in RA appointments. 3. Civilianization of faculty. 4. Restrictive diversification quotas.

[1803]  Need to rescind order eliminating Regular Army commissions for academy graduats.

[1804]  Too much reduction in strength and development. The bad guys are still out there.

[1805]  1. An era of more constrained resources, such as we have now, increases the moral and ethical challenges which Army leadership faces. Our training and nature are "can do," but we must be honest above all. I am concerned that USMA (as well as other civilian and military institutions) prepare young leaders for this challenge. This is not to say that we haven't been doing this - we just need to redouble or efforts. 2. I perceive a widening gulf between our all- volunteer Army and the society which we serve. Again, down-sizing and resource constraints contribute to the gulf. For example, as a percentage, more soldiers can now live on post in government housing and are therefore more isolated from local communities. This is, of course, a good thing for young soldiers and their families financially, but I am concerned about the impact on local civil-military relations. At the macro level, the growing numbers of members of Congress with no military experience and further no interest in military affairs (and hardly an interest in foreign affairs) indicates to me that we must make more effort to NOT lose touch with greater American society.

[1806]  The mandate for 25% civilian faculty.

[1807]  Health care; Erosion of benefits; Arlington Cemeterty burial priviledges

[1808]  The apparant willingness (by not portraying an energetic defense of the needs of the military in the current world) of senior Army personnel to allow the reduction of the current and future effectiveness of the US Army and the general military establishment.

[1809]  Too many police actions. We were superior in the Gulf War due to excellent training prior to it. Lets us keep that in prospective.

[1810]  See above reference USAR vs. RA commissioning

[1811]  see 28, above

[1812]  Regular commissions

[1813]  budget issues, general perception of military and its professionalism/need by the Whitehouse and this president

[1814]  I think all graduates should receive a Regular Army Commission.

[1815]  The loss of regular army status for academy graduates seemed to have a cry from the alumni that I believe is uncalled for. Regular status would imply a destiny to lead the Army. The outcomes achieved appear to indicate a rough parity with other commisioning sources. In the long run this will likely lead to further questioning of the costs involved verses benefits gained. The Military Academy's graduates appear to have given up the controlling influence of our Army that our sister academies maintain over their Services. See comments below on Mentoring.

[1816]  Cadets should get the RA commission when they graduate. There is a feeling that "political correctness" is running amok in the military, when merely an unfounded accusation can ruin a career. A female cadet accusing a classmate of raping her? For it to go to a Court Martial leaves a bad taste in my mouth. At least one of the participants violated the Honor Code. Nothing I have read in the media has mentioned that. A cadet once told me that the old USCC nickname "Uncle Sam's Community College" was replaced with "Uncle Sam's Politically Correct Academy". This perception of the infiltration of political correctness into the military by ignorant civilians, or self-serving military officers, appears to be creating a dangerous Us vs. Them mentality. This bothers me since the Newburgh Conspiracy (I was not sleeping that day, in spite of Chili for lunch) initiated cornerstone ideals for the officer corps of the United States Army -unique in the world- civilian control of the military and a professional apolitical military. Today's conditions in the military seem very close to those that led Washington's officers to consider mutiny. I am more concerned when I see what appears to be flagrant politically maneuvering by senior military members. Perhaps it is naive to be concerned, and that is the way of the world, but I still do not get warm fuzzies.

[1817]  Pull your head out of the sand and read a newspaper. I'll give you one. Do women in combat positions ioncrease the effectiveness of our combat forces?

[1818]  Co-ed training within the enlisted ranks.

[1819]  My biggest concern is the discussion of abolishing the academies.

[1820]  LACK OF REGULAR COMISSION UPON GRADUATION

[1821]  - Toleration of homosexuality in the Army raises concerns for the welfare of service members in general.

[1822]  Refusal to grant RA commissions to USMA grads

[1823]  1. I feel that WP should return to placing graduates in the combat arms for their first tour. 2. I feel that Congress interferred with the honor system to its detriment. It has become too legal and less of a cadet responsibility. 3. I have doubts about females in the military. how does the retention rate compare with males? 4. I feel that new graduates look at the military less as a long term profession than as a short term job and a stepping stone to a civilian job. 5. I do believe that West Point still embodies high ideals but the spate of bad publicity about the other academies has hurt the image of all.

[1824]  The downsizing of our Armed Forces and in particular, the debate regarding the country's capability of fighting a war on two fronts even as we decrease resources.

[1825]  If Academy graduates are adding increased value to society and the military, then they should be differentiated in some way. The erosion of the differences makes the cost and effort less desirable.

[1826]  Insufficient funding to support programs determined to be vital to the "whole person program"

[1827]  Congressional moves to eliminate USMA or make it more like ROTC. What are they thinking?

[1828]  Don't know.

[1829]  Too numerous to mention ......

[1830]  Plebe summer should not be less demanding that Army basic training. Afterall, plebes aren't babies.

[1831]  Loss of RA commissions for graduates.

[1832]  The RA versus Reserve Officer issue.

[1833]  This would be a long conversation...

[1834]  see above

[1835]  Budget, Studies on the need for the Academy.

[1836]  Lack of funds

[1837]  Commissioning process

[1838]  Removal of the RA Commission

[1839]  1. See # 28 2. Basic funding seems to be lacking ($$ to keep the mess hall open during thanksgiving - some cadets don't have anywhere to go, but have to leave any way; Gymnasium improvements, etc.)

[1840]  1. See # 28 2. Basic funding seems to be lacking ($$ to keep the mess hall open during thanksgiving - some cadets don't have anywhere to go, but have to leave any way; Gymnasium improvements, etc.)

[1841]  See above: That should probably be the answer here. And add to that inadequate funding for USMA by the DA Secretariat and Staff. Why doesn't AFA have the same funding problems?

[1842]  ?

[1843]  I believe the current errosion of the defense infrastructure and the benefits of active duty make it difficult to incourage today's young people to consider going to a military academy. This has to be having an impact on the quality of candidates applying to USMA and graduates making a career of the military.

[1844]  I am totally opposed to women in combat and the full integration in training. This is a social experiment that reduces our effectiveness. Please note that the Israeli services have learned better.

[1845]  Political correctness has partially destroyed the former high ideals of the academy and moved it far from its original mission.

[1846]  I am frustrated at the clumsy attempts of the likes of Sarah Lister to "help" the cause of women in the military. The work done by Schroeder and company is a slap in the face of any hard-working, female servicemember. Why does it never seem that the women who have actually served get called to help work those issues? It reeks of the early days of women at USMA, when an all-male committee of engineers was formed to design a brassiere to fit all female cadets.

[1847]  The mandate to add civilian instructors to the faculty is bad for the Army and the country. It is of great concern to me.

[1848]  See above

[1849]  the ease with which the Congress can increase its own (support/salaries/postal accounts) and decrease support to an institution that continues to provide a product of superior benefit to the country is continually troubling

[1850]  Reduced funding in general. Although this does not affect the ideals, it does affect the long-term welfare and existence of the Academy.

[1851]  None that I know of at present. Of course, every 5-7 years someone wants to do away with the place. Call me the next time they want to do this.

[1852]  Defense cutbacks

[1853]  Woman was not created to be a warrior. Bear, raise and defend her child and herself, yes. There was only one Joan D'Arc, and probably a lot of that story is mythical. Congress's attempt to legislate a change of animal nature is purely politics, and will continute to dilute the effectiveness of the combat unit. When I was up to see a parade a few years ago and a seprano voice lilted across the Plain, calling the troops to attention, I felt that I was on the site of a Hollywood movie, and was not stirred to feel that I was among the troops prepared to engage the enemy in mortal combat.

[1854]  Recent health care changes for retirees is a aconcern

[1855]  RA COMMISSIONS

[1856]  As I understand the political possibility of withdrawal of support for military academies in general; and the change in the Reglar Army commis- sioning,

[1857]  1) Restore Regular commissions upon graduation; 2) Provide adequate funding for the infrastructure; 3) Separate the females from the males;4) Repeal the civilian instructor mandate.

[1858]  FORCE REDUCTION

[1859]  The law, since implemented, which withdraws the RA commission for graduates. I have severe reservations about this both from a USMA and an ROTC perspective. I also understand and support Mr Hammacks's position, as he articulated in the last issue of the Assembly.

[1860]  The current drawdown is the first ever that included West Point officers and we - as a whole -are not faring well at all.

[1861]  The decision by Nunn, et.al., to deny Regular Commissions to graduating Cadets.

[1862]  Funding made available to USMA by US government - the trend is downward which is not good.

[1863]  See Item 24 above. In addition, Congress has capped cadet pay well below its appropriate mark and should once again peg it as a percentage of O-1 pay. It is frozen in place and does not keep pace with inflation.

[1864]  See response to #28

[1865]  s.o.s.-force is downsized, Congress is less appreciative of what it can't understand, and active/retired have less value, therefore funding for all is jeopardized, and the Academy itself is put on a path to ho-hum status w/ Podunk U.

[1866]  Regular commission. Funding, and relying on the AOG and contributors to provide funds that congress and DA should provide. Caving in to pressures to accomodate all people at the expense of sound leardership training.

[1867]  Some apparent Congressiona efforts to eliminate the Service Academies due to high costs compared to ROTC or OCS.

[1868]  I am concerned with the idea that West Point grad must compete with ROTC grads for RA commissions. I am not sure where this issue is as of right now.

[1869]  Great idea for a story in the Assembly. Am only aware of the money issues. Unaware of any other current "social experimentation" legislation.

[1870]  I am not familiar with this issue.

[1871]  Not enough Congressional funding.

[1872]  Congress' continuing inability to understand the importance the Academy to the national defence.

[1873]  Loss of the RA commision and the general dimise of the academy's prestige and position within the eyes of our elected officials.

[1874]  The decision to eliminate Regular Army commisioning upon graduation.

[1875]  allowing political correctness to drive the train rather than the mission of the Army

[1876]  Not that I am aware of

[1877]  The gender integration cannot be allowed to effect the ability of any military unit to accomplish its assigned mission. Career officers seem to be in an impossible position at this time. This will not be resolved until the balloon goes up. It will probably cost lives.

[1878]  All West Point cadets need to be taught that at some time in their careers they will be required to fight as infantry. It would be good if Army doctrine recognized that too; but if it does not, then USMA should teach it anyway.

[1879]  A legislature increasingly ignorant of military service is of course a danger. Inappropriately decreasing DOD budgets with high optempo will frustrate graduates and slowly erode the atraction of military life. Congres needs to be informed. Perhaps there is an AOG role there, but past discussions that agree with cautions us against becoming involved in Washington politics.

[1880]  1. The "Don't ask, don't tell policy towards homosexuals in the Military is a disgrace and a lie. This entire policy must be revoked. 2. Readiness and Training has been decimated by the cutbacks in the O&M budgets for the Army. Funding levels should be restored for the current troop levels.

[1881]  I believe graduates should receive regular commissions upon graduation.

[1882]  RA commission issue

[1883]  Continual erosion of retirement benefits, and downsizing of the Army.

[1884]  civilian faculty, not sure of any others

[1885]  see above

[1886]  Current trends toward sexual harrassment allegations being sufficient to ruin careers even if found to be untrue.

[1887]  I think our current Army Chief is doing a good job insofar as the Academy is concerned in the face of overwhelming pressure for evermore political correctness; yet the Army does needs a pr campaign to get our citizenry to make and allow our Alma Mater,its leadership and its output "Be All that they can be in the Army(and beyond)"

[1888]  The admission of women has been the primary cause of the concerns noted in question 28.

[1889]  Need more info to respond.

[1890]  Continued defense cuts and downsizing of the Army is a negative factor for those of us trying to recruit the nation's best and brightest for USMA.

[1891]  RA commissions

[1892]  The financial cutbacks referenced above which result in growing reliance on alumni "charity" for basic Cadet cultural needs.

[1893]  The law requiring a one year wait before RA commissioning, and, especially the Army decision to delay RA comissioning until selection for promotion to major reduces the incentive to attend West Point, thus degrading its purpose.

[1894]  Actually, the answer is the same as above.

[1895]  I believe that enough emphasis is placed on assisting and encouraging members to develop businesses of their own. Rather, I see all resources focused on assisting people in obtaining jobs. Wasting time with a job has been my regret with career transition process.

[1896]  I do not agree with reducing the class size or any reduction in funding for USMA

[1897]  General concern about downsizing of the Armed Forces to levels which are too low.

[1898]  In cutting Defense budgets, there is the possibility Congress will come to the view that USMA is no longer cost effective and that ROTC can produce the officer corps and leadership necessary for the future and do it at a much lower cost.

[1899]  Grads should have Regular Army

[1900]  -see No. 28 -Are West Point graduates intended to lead in battle? If yes, are females going to be allowed to lead troops in battle? If no, then West Point's mission statement needs to recognize that not all its graduates are combat leaders.

[1901]  see above

[1902]  1. Change of RA commissions 2. Gender norming 3. Civilization of staff and faculty

[1903]  I simply do not know of these "mandates" so I cannot answer this question with any background knowledge.

[1904]  Efforts to eliminate the academy. Loss of a direct commission.

[1905]  Women at West Point. Reserve commissions. Combat arms training and first assignment. Civilian faculty.

[1906]  Not giving graduates a regular commission. In time thios will diminish the quality of the cadet corps.

[1907]  Very good people, officers and NCOs, are leaving the Army in droves because it appears aimless and the environment is no longer on of making mistakes and learning and improving from those mistakes.

[1908]  Not enough space, but basically, as USMA moves more toward being another university it loses its uniqueness. Once that happens, there will be no reason to waste taxpayers' money.

[1909]  Change wherein graduates do receive a commission in the Regular Army.

[1910]  Elimination of Regular Army Commissions on Grad Length of service obligation should be no more than 5 years .

[1911]  See 2 above

[1912]  see above #28. While not a mandate, what should be of concern to everyone is the dwindling numbers of congressmen and senators with military experience. I am including our commander in chief as well. This does not bode well for the military and the military academies in particular.

[1913]  I don't know of any specific mandates, but there appears to be a trend in the management of all national academies by congress. I believe the ideals of the Military Academies have and should continue to be well above the apparent national standard as portrayed by the national media. I am against any movement toward the standardization of academy ideals and values with that of the general public.

[1914]  Graduates should have a regular commission. It bothers me that this was taken away.

[1915]  Only in terms of funding for the Academies. The DOD must not let the mission of the Academies suffer through lack of funding. I must apologize for not being fully cognizant of other issues brewing in Washington DC. We here in Detroit ,MI,(like 90% of all Americans) tend to not focus on political issues generated by the two disgusting political parties. Rather, we are most concerned with daily issues concerning GM FORD and CHRYSLER!!

[1916]  USMA no longer needed in "peacetime" post coldwar enviroment.

[1917]  USMA no longer needed in "peacetime" post coldwar enviroment.

[1918]  Continued softening of standards

[1919]  -Heavy-light rotation of infantry officers. -Policy of filling ROTC and recruiting assignments before TOE units. -An over-emphasis on reserve forces. -A failure to overhaul the two front simultaneously strategy in a post-Cold War world. -A preoccupation with the integration of women into combat arms branches without flatly stating woman are already in such branches, they should continue to be in such branches, but that they should not be certain specific roles within these branches (i.e. the vast majority of woman are physically unable to be light infantry platoon leaders)

[1920]  Such as?

[1921]  Reserve commission for grads. Should be regulars right away. Possibility of converting the academies to a junior/senior type college with the first two years taken in ROTC elsewhere. Don't like the idea.

[1922]  See above

[1923]  See medical concern above.

[1924]  Inadequate funding for the Academy, so much so that you continually innundate me for money.

[1925]  Cutting of funds to the Academy

[1926]  1) Reserve commissions, instead of RA commissions 2) Active Duty Commitment

[1927]  Want to ensure that West Point remains open - don't want it "downsized" like everything else in the Army

[1928]  Different physical standards for woman. The change in the goals of the academy from combat leaders to managers.....That is my perception...could b e wrong...but I speak to many graduates that keep a closer touch on such things than I do.

[1929]  Reserve Commissions

[1930]  See above

[1931]  Women in the Military. Women at the Point should be housed in their own dorms, have seperate physcical testing and not place competetively against the men except in academics. They should not expect to be at or below Corps level.

[1932]  I am concerned that it is continually looked at as the same as ROTC and no greater value

[1933]  Recurring reviews of military academies for their national worth -

[1934]  The RA designation of West Pointers and DMG/ROTC grads should be reinstated. I understand the political climate in DC but this should be a long term goal of reinstating this.

[1935]  Regular Army commission

[1936]  Regular Army commission

[1937]  RA commisions

[1938]  - See above. - Medical care for retirees. - Waiver authotity for burial in Arlington should rest with Congress, not a political appointee or the president - Downsizing of the military, too much, too soon with an unrealistic dual MRC capability.

[1939]  Peacekeeping Mission-preparedness Politicizing the force liberalization of force

[1940]  regular commisions funding for facilities

[1941]  During a period of reduction there are many decisions on force structure, composition, and training that must be made. Obviously, these all impact USMA and graduates directly.

[1942]  Lack of adequate funding

[1943]  Continued reliance upon private fund raising for USMA may give Congress a reason to cut appropriations.

[1944]  Don't know

[1945]  I believe DMG and Academy graduates whould be commissioned in the regular services upon graduation.

[1946]  Attacks on the Army Ethic and Values Turning the Honor Code into a book of do's and don't's; killing the spirit

[1947]  Budget balancing.

[1948]  giving only a reserve commission at graduation

[1949]  Reserve commissions

[1950]  There could be but I am unaware of any "mandates" that might fit this category, A "no" answer just didn't seem appropriate.

[1951]  see above

[1952]  Keeping the Academy RA versus Reserve commissions

[1953]  1. Graduates receiving reserve commissions. 2. Excessive decrease in military faculty members.

[1954]  Many, esp. Senator Glenn's attacks to shut down the Academy.

[1955]  Funding

[1956]  I believe "political correctness" will eventually ruin the selection process for selecting cadets. Additionally, tac officers and P's will soon be so restricted as to how they can discipline cadets for fear of repercussion (i.e. Congressional investigations) that discipline will deteriorate. USMA will ALWAYS be fighting to remain for budgetary reasons.

[1957]  Funding cuts.

[1958]  Not aware enough to answer this question

[1959]  Budget cuts making it necessary for cadets to do manual labor (repointing the masonary on the outside of the barracks) inlieu of area tours. This example of the deterioration of cadet life was striking when I went to my class of 86 reunion. I think its a sad statement towards the current attitude towards the military coming from our representative government.

[1960]  The move to reduce support and even close the Academy is very real in the Congress and that concerns me greatly.

[1961]  Promotion rates "fixed" to ensure that ROTC and USMA come out equal. If necessary, don't tell source of commission but don't tell the board that they are expected to produce parity. Size of USMA - it should be scaled back in size - (3600 or 3000) and made harder to complete. Civilian faculty should be eliminated or replaced with retired military/grads.

[1962]  reserve commissions for graduates. they do through four years of active duty as cadets under the toughest standards and deserve a commission that distinguishes them from ROTC programs at run-of-the-mill colleges

[1963]  I'm sure there are, but at this late hour I send them later.

[1964]  Base closures that result in reduced leadership opportunities for young grads

[1965]  See my answer for question #17

[1966]  Medical Care, Dental Care, Prime Care and promises made in the past. Inflation/Cost of Living Adjustments to retired income.

[1967]  Funding reductions

[1968]  Loss of the Vol Indef Status of Grads - By giving Reserve Commissions, USMA is placed at risk of having the most difficult task of justifying its existence and the necessary funding to keep it alive as an institution.

[1969]  funding

[1970]  The general lack of support for the Army as a whole which impacts on unit readiness, troop morale and operational funding. This "lack of concern" only serves to cause our graduates to become frustrated and confused about serving a full career in the Army and to some degreee causes them to leave the service at the first available opportunity.

[1971]  Don't ask, don't tell

[1972]  I'm concerned budget constraints might adversely impact the quality of the program at large.

[1973]  Decline in military preparedness Overextension of resources on "police" missions

[1974]  Erosion of benefits Decreasing training budgets

[1975]  The loss of Regular commissions.

[1976]  I perceive that the periodically recurring drive to abolish, reduce or civilianize USMA is gaining ground. We need to fight this by focusing on our core mission of training combat leaders. Those who have other goals can go to civilian institutions; those who desire to lead soldiers in combat can only attend USMA. Therefore, USMA is an investment in the nation's future that cannot be deferred or deleted.

[1977]  Obviously, continued budget cuts will cause hardships for the academy...but most disturbing recently has been the issue of removing regular army status from graduates.

[1978]  i do not approve of the new laws pertaining to regular commissions.

[1979]  Academy officials must be very viligant, Re: Budget Cutbacks and getting WP's fair share--like the other Service Academies do. We seem to have taken a back seat to the Air Force and Navy in the "competition" for funds that goes on in the Pentagon and on Capitol Hill.

[1980]  I feel that as the Army continues to decline in numbers, the overall effectiveness of the force will decline. Decreasing opportunities will lead to the most capable officers and soldiers leaving for better opportunities.

[1981]  Certainly, the appreciation of the mission, traditions, and the accompanying decrements in resourcing which have had significant impacts to USMA.

[1982]  Historical complacency during period of relative peace always threaten our military institutions. USMA will have to do its mission with less and that means quality may suffer unless private funding comes through. Barring a radical shift in public sentiment and government funding, or hostilities that suddenly make West Point "valuable" again, we're likely in for some lean years. Keeping it all in perspective, we should not fret that this is the case -- it's simply consistent with the historical cycles the military experiences between major conflicts.

[1983]  I am concerned that graduates of the USMA and distinguished military graduates from ROTC are not given RA commissions either upon graduation, or a year after graduation

[1984]  they are well-known

[1985]  Attacks on the service academies No RA commission for graduates on gradua- tion.

[1986]  GAY POLICY

[1987]  The changes toward all commissions being reserve commissions rather than RA. This will create the perception that the Academies are the same as ROTC.

[1988]  I am sure that this has been brought up a thousand (or more) times but it seems completely bizarre that in an era where grads are released after two years of service that Congress wants to increase the service commitment. It also seems bizarre that ANY 17 or 18 year olds would be willing to sign on to a course of action that determines what they will do until they are 30.

[1989]  Denial of Regular Army commissions to graduates. I am still concerned about the lack of understanding of the long-range impact of this action not only on the Officer Corps itself, but also on the future of USMA. I think its about time AOG focused on what they can do, not why they cannot.

[1990]  Don't mess with military retiree benefits like the eroding health care issue.

[1991]  see # 28

[1992]  Seemingly eroding appreciation the Nation holds for USMA and the military, a trend the AOG can help stem through an active PAO program.

[1993]  Automatic commissioning in the Active Duty Regular Army. Graduating from USMA ought to entail at least some standing above ROTC, who can wear a uniform a total of 40 days over a 4 year period and earn the same commissioning status. Something is seriuosly wrong here.

[1994]  The continued slide towards USMA as "just another source of commissioned officers" and hence susceptible to reduction and elimination on a cost basis.

[1995]  The continued slide towards USMA as "just another source of commissioned officers" and hence susceptible to reduction and elimination on a cost basis.

[1996]  Whether the Service Academies will continue as presently constituted

[1997]  I am very concerned about the issue of RA commissions for graduates; this insecurity is an invitation for young graduates to resign at the earliest date possible.

[1998]  pushing USMA grads into the 'pool' with non-RA commissions; the non- or anti-USMA folks leveled the playing field. cutting back the parts of USMA funding. Grdas need to be alerted as to how back this problem is and what we will need to do to save West Point. We have taken for granted national budget dollars. These are becoming smaller and fewer by the year. To maintain West Point, grads must fill the void. Most of us don't know how big that void will be. Tell us, please.

[1999]  See response to question 28.

[2000]  no data

[2001]  no data

[2002]  The list is long and would be a good issue to add to the purpose list - a place to discuss such things.

[2003]  I am not well enough informed to have a yes or no opinion.

[2004]  see 28 (above)

[2005]  Regular army commissions. USMA should not become just another ROTC program. The link between our graduates and the our country is significant. Our role in support of our country's military must be maintained.

[2006]  Race or gender based preferences concerns me. USMA owes the nation only the very best commissioned officers. This is not to say that West Point should not actively seek qualified minority and female applicants, but the selection process for both admission and commissioning should choose only the best qualified. We owe it to our soldiers and their families.

[2007]  Provide graduates with a regular commission upon graduation.

[2008]  Provide graduates with a regular commission upon graduation.

[2009]  Not granting USMA grads (and ROTC DMGs) RA commissions.

[2010]  I am somewhat concerned with the passage of the law which denies regular commissions to academy graduates at graduation because I don't know the motivation of Congress in passing the law. If the motivation was anti academy/DMG then we should all be very concerned. If there was no anti bias then I say a period of open competition for regular commissions could be a positive thing both for the service involved and for the individual officer.I do feel strongly that however, delaying selection for 9 to 12 years as DA has apparently done is unrealistic and a morale buster. This smacks of civilian college tenure selection. The DA selection processes should be able to pick the good apples in no more than 2 to 4 years or get a better system.

[2011]  -allowing male cadets to receive commissions in css branches -the gradual increase over the years in the nuber of civilian or non-graduate profs

[2012]  Cut backs in the budget

[2013]  Opening combat positions to females remains a concern. I am concerned that the American public is still not ready for what this will entail if we ever get into a major conflict with societies that do not have the same beliefs in honor and civility that the US does.

[2014]  There appears to be more emphasis on the need for less defense and military. This bothers me in the sense that I do not think such emphasis is well thoughtout. More needs to be done to educate the people on what is happening in the world and some of the real life threats that currently exist out there. I believe most of society is ignorant of what is really going on. One of our roles should be to provide accurate and timely information on the need or lack of need for a stronger and more capable military/defense force.

[2015]  Iinadequate numbers of troops for the missions and tasks assigned in this transition age. The morale of the troops seems to be low because of the rapid and frequent deployments with little time for training or family life.If the Army life is not attractive tothe young family, meny will leave the service early, taking our investment with them.

[2016]  See 28 above & 20 above

[2017]  I do not agree with the change in regular commission ststus after graduation

[2018]  The law awardingonly reserve commissions to all service academy graduates.

[2019]  That some feel that the Academies should be closed or consolidated.

[2020]  Elimination of RA commission. Erosion of health care for families and retirees.

[2021]  The RA commission issue. USMA is unique - it is not like any other ROTC or OCS commissioning program. Therefore, exceptions should be allowed.

[2022]  Discussion of closing or redirecting the Academies

[2023]  The loss of the RA Commission. Now a cadet who endures 4 complete years in uniform with military indoctrination a daily way of life gets the same commission as his civilian counterpart??

[2024]  Lack of active duty assignments for USMA grads.

[2025]  No RA Commission at Graduation

[2026]  No RA Commission at Graduation

[2027]  The push for a younger officer corps forces many quality officers into the civilian sector, when they still could be strong contributors in the Army.

[2028]  Budgeting--to build leaders, the Academy must be properly funded by the Government. We need to make clear the benefits of maintaining the Academy as opposed to having only ROTC training.

[2029]  None that USMA can do anything about at this time

[2030]  See response to 28. Congress has historically tried to ruin USMA, except during war time. Now, with too many lawyers in government and action groups, I fear the power will shift, leaving USMA far worse for the changes they edict.

[2031]  See response to 28. Congress has historically tried to ruin USMA, except during war time. Now, with too many lawyers in government and action groups, I fear the power will shift, leaving USMA far worse for the changes they edict.

[2032]  I beleive the addition of more civilian faculty can be a very positive attribute to the academy if it is handled in a very strict manner. My concern is that the academy may be mandated to heavily increase the percentage of civilian professors in the future. The cadets need to have key role models to look up to as professors, and the military provides a great background for this. The selection of civilian professors will have to be quite rigorous to provide the quality individuals which are needed to mold America's future military leaders.

[2033]  Lack of adequate funding for athletics, extra curricular activities for cadets. RA commissions

[2034]  Homosexuals should not be allowed to participate in the U.S. Military Women should be allowed to participate, but only in very limited support roles. Men should be the ones who die in combat, not women

[2035]  As stated in 28 above, the loss of Regular Army commissions for all USMA Grads

[2036]  1. Graduates now no longer enter the service as officers of the regular army 2. Constant attempts to erode retirement benefits including eligibility, pay and medical

[2037]  The elimination of Regular commissions for graduates.

[2038]  USMA graduates should still receive an RA commission.

[2039]  Lack of RA Commissions upon graduation

[2040]  The increased emphasis on "soft" issues, and creating more exemptions for troop policies, is eroding our warfighting capability. The Army is coming closer to the McNamara "management" model than the lip-service "Warfighter Leader" model. We are too top-heavy and too high-tech at the expense of boots-on-the-ground with a "close with the enemy and destroy him" philosophy.

[2041]  Females in combat arms, other than Aviation. Removal of RA commissons on graduation.

[2042]  Graduates no longer commissioned RA.

[2043]  RA Commissions should not be postponed until O-4 selection.

[2044]  Periodic pushes by selected personel to change or grant exceptions to mandatory service obligations.

[2045]  Money will continue to be an issue in the outyears. We must protect the resources that provide the unique developmental program here at USMA.

[2046]  Regular Commissions for graduates. Still think it was a mistake to have Women as cadets. ( that is probably a dead issue)

[2047]  Regular Commissions for graduates. Still think it was a mistake to have Women as cadets. ( that is probably a dead issue)

[2048]  It APPEARS that there are pressures from all sides to deviate from my answer to #28 above. It APPEARS to me that USMA is becoming more and more similar to civilian universities as long-standing tradi- tions and standards seem to fall by the wayside.

[2049]  It APPEARS that there are pressures from all sides to deviate from my answer to #28 above. It APPEARS to me that USMA is becoming more and more similar to civilian universities as long-standing tradi- tions and standards seem to fall by the wayside.

[2050]  See answer to item 28 above. The AOG could institute a letter writing campaign if necessary to help in battles for maintaining the mission of the academy. TROA is very effective at this kind of lobbying for retired officer issues and we may have to pitch in one of these days to help save the academy from budget cutters.

[2051]  Budget cutbacks to the academies.

[2052]  RA Commissioning

[2053]  Not commissioning graduates into the Regular Army.

[2054]  Non-RA commissions

[2055]  Continued existance of USMA, followed by funding, funding, funding

[2056]  Continued military cutbacks--specifically, the threat to retirement benefits and pay. I am very disturbed to see many retirees with indaqeduate medical coverage due to the move to the TRICARE system. I am also concerned that retirement pay may be cut further or postponed (until age 65). I would like to have a career in the military, but I need to take care of my family and do not want to be left with empty promises 25 years from now.

[2057]  I am concerned about the "gay rights" movement and the possible impact this might have on the academy. There is no place at West Point for alternative lifestyles.

[2058]  Currently, there are initiatives to determine the feasibility of downsizing or consolidating the number of service academies. This seems like a reasonable concept, but it does not seem to be getting a rational treatment by AOG and many graduates in general.

[2059]  regular vs. reserve commissions for graduates not receiving "good years" credit for time at USMA toward reserve retirement as ROTC training

[2060]  Cuts in funding concern me greatly.

[2061]  regular commissions commissioning in other than the combat arms and that's just for starters

[2062]  The present method of commissioning Regular Officers

[2063]  I wonder what influence the service academies can have in DOD's current consideration of gender integrated basic training? They have almost 22 years experience in transforming teenage boys and girls into cadets and midshipmen.

[2064]  Clearly, with the decreasing budgets affecting all military functions, there is the constant threat to USMA. We need to be wary of gradual degradation leading to such decreased capability that the case for elimination acquires validity.

[2065]  Regular Army commissions - What is the purpose of an RA commission if it is just ignored during reductions? The RA status should allow for individuals to "do the right thing" (Duty, Honor, Country) instead of the career enhancing/saving action.

[2066]  Regular Army commissions - What is the purpose of an RA commission if it is just ignored during reductions? The RA status should allow for individuals to "do the right thing" (Duty, Honor, Country) instead of the career enhancing/saving action.

[2067]  I am not a big supporter of women and men conducting joint combat training. I think it dilutes the training and provides significant distractors for both sexes. I know this is not a politically correct viewpoint. I also subscribe to the view that men and women should be segregated in combat units. West Point needs to focus on the basics. More Sandhurst type training. Send more cadets to Ranger school. We need combat leaders that can be trained in a unique way, not available in ROTC or OCS. Since taxpayers invest so much money in USMA, we should demand the best product possible... What happened to Area Tours? I think we need to reinstitute them...

[2068]  Delay until promotion to Major before being eligable for selection to RA commission. This differs from the other services/Academies and serves to undermine the basic reason for existence of West Point.

[2069]  See above

[2070]  1. The due-process pendulum has swung too far already; don't exacerbate the situation by permitting honor violators to be re-admitted. 2. The current and perennial hue & cry for down-sizing and consolidating the academies stems in part from their trying to achieve "political correctness". The academies' strength is their traditionalism, not their bending to political winds. Change, yes, but limited and only as "absolutely" required. The least of an academy's aims should be to seek to emulate the campus milieu and experience of civilian institutions.

[2071]  You have three "s's" in the word congressional! DoD/Army Funding cutbacks impacting renovation particularly of West Point.

[2072]  Obviously, the cuts in the defense budget.

[2073]  The image of the Armed Services is ill served by the competition between branches for developing unique weaponry, etc. Greater effort has to be made to show that there are astute policy makers/developers in the branches, not the image currently being promoted.

[2074]  I don't think it's the West Point experience that bothers me. It's what the Army is doing after the graduates start serving. But maybe some of both. Why are so many leaving before they should? Why is there a swelling dissatisfaction with a career as an officer? What's going on out there that is causing many of the best and brightest to leave so early. How we prepare them, or what happens to them once they graduate?

[2075]  Graduates are no longer given Regular Army commissions. This is another "slippery slope" concern. With the Army at a smaller size than it has been since the immediate post World War II period, why is the size of the Corps still at 4000? Would we not fare better by producing a smaller number of graduates every year, but increase the quality and dedication of those who are commissioned ?

[2076]  If a rumor develops such a buses being used on the plebe hike, I want either the supt or com to respond immediately.

[2077]  Congressional legislation eliminating award of Regular commissions to all (qualified) gradutes

[2078]  Regular commisions for graduates. The length of service should be lengthened and not waived. The GI Bill should be extended to graduates. Has any one really told Congress the state of the Army as a result of the low pay and large numbers of deployments?

[2079]  insufficient funding level

[2080]  It wqould appear that the future of USMA as a "West Point"--a place for the development and education of american youth to serve their nation--is in jeopardy--not by design, but by inattention of those who have other fish to fry---that old nasty c word --compromise. If we went back and established a base line that is say 25v years old there are basic issues that appear to have been compromised--the honor code, the RA commissions,subordinating the USMA graduate to the ROTC grad, lapses in discipline.

[2081]  No specific mandate; just the sense that political correctness has debased the West Point concept.

[2082]  That West point graduates are not longer regular Army officers. They are just like any ROTC gradute.

[2083]  I sense the U.S. is regressing in the area of women's rights and roles in the military. West Point should have been far more vocal in its demonstrated success of male/female co-training. Its silence assisted moves to eventually seperate the sexes and thereby contributed to the degredation of our future force.

[2084]  Congressional mandate for Reserve commissions for graduates

[2085]  Continued attempts to look at the necessity of having the Academy in the first place. The country needs West Point, and the other service academy's as well. Continued efforts by graduates and graduate organizations instilling the importance of those institutions in the public and the Washington power structure is essential.

[2086]  Please see me comments above.

[2087]  see ans above (#28)

[2088]  Must stop efforts to make USMA like any other university

[2089]  USMA graduates should be commissioned in the Regular Army and not have to wait years in a "limbo" category with commissioned officers from other sources.

[2090]  Lowering Army & USMA budgets

[2091]  Reduce the size of the Corps Reduce the number of civilian instructors

[2092]  Does USMA regularly provide the field Army support in other areas besides graduates? If so, what?

[2093]  Regular commission debacle.

[2094]  Reserve commission issue as compared to RA.

[2095]  The change from RA commissions to Reserve Commissions

[2096]  Women in Combat. I see women entering into the combat arms and I know it would be a very costly mistake. Men and Women are not equal. War is a very physically demanding endevor and women cannot provide an effective combat force. Our purpose is to Defend the Constitution of the U.S. to the best of our ability, not to be politically correct or open doors for a certain gender. I constantly viewed women perform well below the standards in Physical Fitness Tests, Army Training Schools (Airborne, Air Assult, etc.), and in their normal jobs. We should NEVER decrease our effectiveness to accomplish the mission to the best of our ability to ensure a quota is met. THIS IS UNEXCUSABLE!!! In other words, "NO EXCUSE"!

[2097]  The steady deterioration of the readiness of the active force due to budget cuts places our graduates and all members in the armed forces in a dangerous posture. The lack of training dollars is a great threat that will show up the next time we need to react to a hostile threat. The impact is being felt by our young graduates and we will see a continuing number of resignations from the active army in the near future.

[2098]  a. As above, gardutes of USMA should be commissioned in the Regular Army.

[2099]  a. As above, graduates of USMA should be commissioned in the Regular Army.

[2100]  1. Shutting down the institution

[2101]  Reduction in military size, treatment of military as second class citizens, and the "politic-ization" of the military can all be attributed to Congressional influence.

[2102]  Reserve commission, rather than regular army

[2103]  I believe the Army leadership (uniformed and political appointees) should use the Academy for top level conferences at least once a year to develop specific needs and by-name sponsor for sponsorship on the Hill, etc., never mind that the preponderance of GO's are non-USMA graduates....USMA is the USMA....theirs as well as the grads.

[2104]  I have a real problem with decreasing the number of cadets as the result of the downsizing of the officer corps. If West Point graduates are not, on average, superior to ROTC and OCS, what's the point of spending greater sums of money on USMA? I assume it is a question of either (a) not having sufficient influence in politics at the national level, or (b) the lack of effective "influencing" by USMA, its graduates or senior Army leaders, or (c) some combination of both. It is, however, a major failure of the Army and West Point.

[2105]  1. Gender Integrated Basic Training 2. DACOWITS' constant push for women in the combat arms 3. The "Zero Defect" Mentality that is propogated throughout senior military leadership.

[2106]  Any proposals to limit funding for USMA or which seek to hasten the perceived effort to overly "civilianize" what was once an academy dedicated to military leadership.

[2107]  USMA continues to move in the direction of being like other schools to the extent its movement succeeds, its argument for its existence diminishes

[2108]  reserve vs regular comissions the move to abolish the academies by former senator Nunn

[2109]  Commissioning of graduates in the Reserves rather than the RA.

[2110]  Modification of the curriculum and customs in order to be more politically correct.

[2111]  Erosion of retirement benefits Increasing reliance on a smaller pool of active deployable units which increases the importance of high quality USMA graduates Excessive focus on vague and politically correct notions of military leadership

[2112]  I think we are on a slippery slope of deciding what is "core" (congressionally funded) and what is "enhancement" (privately funded). We had better decide what "core" really means and fully fund it. Then we will have to defend the "enhancements" and to the extent we define "core" accurately, I fear the "enhancements" will be difficult to defend. No answers here, but I would like to see the debate take place.

[2113]  Funding, general support, confidence

[2114]  My views on this subject are so politically incorrect that I will not air them here.

[2115]  Law on RA commissions. Law on civilian faculty members. Failure to provide adequate military construction funds for the needs of West Point.

[2116]  see above

[2117]  Politically correct double standards for females, w/o outcomes based standards.

[2118]  Length of service required of grads is of concern. Also, I am dismayed at the number of grads taking very early outs following graduation these days. We have many leaving service with only 2 years of commissioned service. This will ultimately hurt USMA when made known.

[2119]  See # 28 -- I just don't have the information to reply comfortably to such a broad question. Between congress, the Defense Dept, and the Army there are probably a host of condcerns.

[2120]  Not aware of any.

[2121]  I have and will support the idea of women in appropriate branches and positions, and have always been impressed with the quality that most bring. Recent observations in one of our divisions of more junior WP women graduates, however, has not been favorable. I was struck with the apparent arrogance, lack of professional competence and unwillingness to take coaching of some WP graduates. I hope it is an isolated phenomenon.

[2122]  See item 28

[2123]  What is the need of spending the kind of money that is spent on a WP education, when graduates are not directly given regular commissions?

[2124]  See 28.

[2125]  See 28, I'm not sure whether or not areas listed in 28 are exclusively one or the other.

[2126]  Relinquishment of the "Regular" Commission for Academy and DMGs -- probably a Windmill Exercise to reinstitute!!!!

[2127]  Too tight with funds. Mandated civilinization of faculty. All grads should receive RA commission.

[2128]  Lack of RA appointment

[2129]  The lack of military experience in Congress is a real hazard to our future. I doubt much can be done to change it.

[2130]  The mandate that has graduates competing for RA commissions with ROTC graduates.

[2131]  I lost the thread on whether new grads wouild be commissioned as reserves or active. Also concerned that congress may cut funds, therefore, the Academy has to raise more money outside to support it function. Doesn't soud like WP has enough support for its function in congress.

[2132]  The Kasselbaum study alarms me in its implications that women and men who serve together should not be trained together. Trust in each other, as well as the basic foundation of Army life begins on the first day of entry into the service of our Nation. It should be integrated from the beginning.

[2133]  I am not aware of any mandates. I am concerned that the demise of moral and ethical leadership in Washington may negatively impact the future of West Point. Hopefully more grads will enter Congress and reverse the downward spiral of values in Washington I would suggest that when a grad seeks an elected federal political office that the AOG a) insures that all grads know about it and b) strongly encourages support for these office seekers.

[2134]  Occasional drives to abolish the academies.

[2135]  Limited funds for USMA and the Army.

[2136]  Continued commitment and funding.

[2137]  The GI Bill exclusion The loss of the RA commission for graduates

[2138]  Continued commitment and funding.

[2139]  The regular army commissioning issue is of great concern and a challenge to the survival of West Point as an institution

[2140]  Funding cuts resulting in reduced retirement benfits, health care benefits, and closing/reduction of Morale, Welfare, and Recreation programs.