It’s often said that a person doesn’t get appointed to a military academy, an entire family gets appointed. Sure, the son or daughter does the really hard part - they endure Induction Day, live at the bottom run of the ladder during that first year, balance a staggering academic load with military duties and extracurriculars, … Continue reading My commissioning as a military parent feels complete

Despite the fact that I document (or have documented) a fair amount of both my kids' experiences at their respective academies (as well as their journeys to those academies), neither one has a particular interest in my writing. Oh, they are fully aware that I write about their lives - and supportive of it - … Continue reading My daughter told me not to write this post

I'm humbled that a handful of USNA parents reach out to me every so often to talk about their Mids' experience. One such exchange last year featured a Plebe parent whose son was having his share of challenges. The conversations eventually led to the Prayer for a Plebe. Those of you who've had that type … Continue reading A ’25 parent made my day

I have written often about the Naval Academy's ceaseless rhythm and how despite all manner of life swirling about, life there continues on schedule. Now we understand that we learned that lesson as preparation for life in the Fleet. While my son was a Mid, his maternal grandfather passed away. My kids spent a lot … Continue reading Time and tide wait for no one

With the passing of Plebe Parents Weekend, the Class of 2026's time on the Severn is officially one-third complete. And while the amount of emotional energy expended over those precious few days could easily power the entire Pacific Fleet for years, that chapter has closed and it's time to move on. As we all know, … Continue reading With PPW behind us, time to strap in, folks