<p>The school is called The United States Military Academy or the nickname of West Point because of its geographic location on the Hudson River.</p>
<p>Twice in recent weeks I have seen it referred to on television as the West Point Military Academy, specifically once on the show "24". Obviously some writer or flunky on the show had no clue as to the proper name. The Annapolis Naval Academy, the Colorado Springs Aviation Academy, the New London Coast Guard Academy or the Kings Point Merchant Marine Academy (I didn't know your son was in the Marines?), would all sound just as strange.</p>
<p>So kids, do yourself a favor when applying to one of the Academies. At the very least learn the name of the place you want to attend before applying. It helps you not look like a doofus.</p>
<p>Actually, my nephew, a USAFA grad, just returned from Iraq today, Memorial Day and was also promoted to Captain today. There’s a friendly rivalry in our family between USMA and USAFA, so it probably came out in the post.</p>
<p>It is always good to know the name of the school you are applying to :). Yes, it can get confusing, the institution is known as the United States Military Academy, USMA, West Point; cadet teams are known as Army, Black Nights etc. The confusion has been noticed and it is my understanding that there is an effort by the administration to “brand” the institution as “West Point”.</p>