<p>Is the Alumni Association worth the 500 dollars it costs to join? What are some benefits? Also, in the book that instructs everyone how to fill out their papers, it says there will be only 2 passes (1 for each parent) to come onto the Yard to see their Midshipmen off. However, later in the book it says family and friends will be able to say their goodbyes after the swearing in ceremony. If the passes are meant for only parent or guardians, then how do friends and siblings say their goodbyes? Thanks in advance for any help.</p>
<p>I missed the part concerning only two passes. </p>
<p>I can assure you there will be many "extended" famliy members present come I-Day. The word is that if parents, friends, whatever, can only make one, I-Day or PPW, go for PPW b/c after they start the induction process that morning you won't see them again until that evening at the swearing in ceremony and then only for a very short time.</p>
<p>We'll need some input from those already there about the Alumni Association. :)</p>
<p>I am unaware of any benefit that would be worth $500 to a non-Alumni. </p>
<p>All alumni automatically become members (I can't remember if they take the dues out of your paycheck or if it's part of being an alumni). After that, being in the USNAAA is like so many other things: What you get out of it depends on what you put into it.</p>
<p>The two passes refered to in your packet are CAR passes which allow your parents to drive and park on the Yard. Anyone can walk onto the Yard or ride as a passenger in your parents car.</p>
<p>The parent passes are called FONA passes (Friends of the Naval Academy). The pass is a small sheet of cardboard with the parent's name and the description of up to two vehicles (make, model, license #). Only the vehicles described on the pass could be used, plus rental vehicles for those coming in by air. And the driver has to show a valid picture ID.</p>
<p>(I heard a rumor that this year they are switching to parent ID cards -- don't know exactly what that will entail, but the overall effect should be the same.)</p>
<p>That said -- your parents probably won't have the pass prior to I-Day. Last year we sent in the paperwork and picked up the pass on I-Day in a tent set up on Worden field (it will be mailed to those who don't attend). On I-Day, your Permit to Report will get the car you are driving in onto the Yard. Anyone riding with you is fine, and anyone else can park in town and walk in. </p>
<p>Note: generally, the passengers in a car driven by someone with one of the parent ID's don't have to show ID's, but not always. Maybe twice in the 30 or 40 times I've been down this year there the passengers were asked for ID, so always be prepared. Walk-ins always need ID's. Children under 16 are OK w/out ID's.</p>