I’ve been getting some updates from a Blue and Gold Officer (BGO) and also from USNA medical personnel about what’s happening at the Academy so far, and more importantly, why. Here’s the summary:
Midshipmen are federal employees, so they usually enjoy the same federal holidays enjoyed by other federal employees. July 4th isn’t one of them (at least not for plebes). The plebes were up at 5:30 yesterday morning doing what’s soon to be “the usual thing”. They start the day by working out (for about 90 minutes), they eat breakfast, and they head off for various training exercises.
According to the BGO, on 7/3 it was noted that some plebes couldn’t even do one push up. Mark can do about 60 so we know he wasn’t one of the guys struggling. But by 7/4, most of those that struggled just the day before were not struggling anymore. The Commandant claims to be very happy with this year’s incoming class.
7/3 saw some medium traffic at the medical tent, but again 7/4 saw a huge reduction. The plebes are figuring this stuff out. Did I mention that the Commandant is pleased?
A word about “yelling”: according to our medical source, the yelling is designed to force the plebes to emotionally disassociate when stressed. In other words, when the shit hits the fan, these kids are trained to respond (not react).
Although specifics can’t be shared with parents, yesterday may have marked the beginning of “by the numbers”. This is an exercise that is dreaded, hated, and abhorred by all plebes. Here’s an example:
“Okay plebes! We’re going to get dressed by the numbers. Line up! Now, put on one sock!”
Everyone has to put on one sock in unison. If they don’t get it right, they take the sock off and start over.
“Okay! Put on the other sock!” You get the picture…until they can work seamlessly as a unit, they spend a lot of time starting over on even the simplest of tasks.
There was an impressive fireworks display in Annapolis last night. The plebes were allowed to relax and enjoy it. I guess that was their version of a “holiday”.
Progress is being made. The system is working. The general consensus on “the Yard” is that this class is going to be a great one!