<p>Candidatemom~</p>
<p>Can you share for others some of the rules and regulations when on leave at the holidays from the academy? We have read them on the web site but it isn't clear about what can be done at home as it relates to driving / uniform wear etc. Also ... what Do you get a mid for Christmas ... can they play computer games on the weekends or read novels while at the Academy? </p>
<p>Thanks and Happy Holidays! Juniormom (now seniormom)</p>
<p>Plebes can do whatever they want when on leave as long as it is legal.
No drugs, no drinking (my mid tells me that there is random testing when returning from leave, and that at least one plebe has been separated (kicked out) because he/she failed the test)</p>
<p>Uniforms must be worn while traveling.</p>
<p>Plebes are on town liberty on Saturday afternoons following the football game until about 10 pm (the time varies), and yard liberty on Sunday afternoon until 6 pm unless they have duty (watch) or are on restriction. Computers do not have speakers, and plebes cannot listen to music on the yard. Upper class can. (Jadler, jump in anytime if I have a misunderstanding). I believe that on the weekends, mids can play computer games (sans sound), read, go for a run, etc. They may not sleep during the day or even recline on their beds (racks). If they are at their sponsor's they can listen to music, play playstation if the sponsor family has it, watch TV, sleep, and generally chill. Plebes must be in uniform, even while on liberty (PE shorts and shirt indoors at the sponsor's are allowed). They may wear civilian clothes when home on leave. Plebes may not have civilian clothes in their posession at Bancroft.</p>
<p>You give a mid the same things you get any college student for Christmas: MONEY, gift certificates for food, MONEY, computer stuff, MONEY, (you get the idea).</p>
<p>I know this answer is all over the place, but I hope it helps. I understand the rules change when a different Superintendent (Supe) is appointed, But these are the ones I know about for this year.</p>
<p>Happy Holidays, and Good Luck!
CM</p>
<p>One more thing:
They would be smart to stay away from an environment where prohibited activities may be taking place. For example, if there is a party where drinking is going on, they would be better off not being there at all, rather than have to explain themselves. With digital cameras everywhere, you never know when a picture may (or will) show up and where.
CM</p>
<p>CM you got it down exactly. IT DOES NOT PAY TO DRINK AS A PLEBE. Unless you are over 21 and on a leave status. And then you must be responsible to not drink and drive because a DUI will be automatic separation. There are random tests and I just do not think (and I hope you do to) it is worth getting booted for.</p>
<p>We are so fortunate to have the best officers on the Yard. Specifically, the Superintendent, VADM Rempt, USN and Commandant, RADM-select Leidig, USN, are extremelly fine leaders. The Supe invites Midn to his house all the time for parties (all classes) and the 'Dant has a great personality and he isn't too bad of a runner! </p>
<p>Emerald Bowl: I encourage you all to tune to ESPN2 on 30 December at 1:30pm PDT or 4:30pm EDT to watch us beat the New Mexico Lobos in San Francisco. Midshipman DO NOT have to travel in uniform, but it is always nice to take pride and represent our service by wearing it. During the game, all Midn are required to be in uniform.</p>
<p>Plebes-to-be, I encourage you to start getting your vocal chords ready for some songs because the Supe loves them. In addition to finding rates (which I am not necessarily encouraging), I would start to learn Anchors Aweigh (Navy, Army. USNA versions), Marine Corps Hymn, Fight Song, Goat is Old and Gnarly, and any others you can find! But don't spend too much time on it, as you only have about a 1/2 year and then the beginning of a very long year. Congrats to all who have gotten appointments and to the rest, hang in there and go about the rest of your semester.</p>
<p>Thanks Jadler.</p>
<p>For those of you who have already received an appointment, (and your parents) I HIGHLY RECOMMEND that you read the book "Brief Points" by Ross MacKenzie. It is a first step in understanding what the next four years of your life will be like.</p>
<p>CM</p>
<p>Thanks for sharing so much information....the rules are less rigid than I thought...I hope your son (candidatemom) and you Jadler have a great holiday! When do you have to return? Enjoy! JM</p>
<p>PS It's hard to imagine working so hard to get in and making a mistake by drinking and getting separated... I've read that there is drinking at the Academy and it's hard to believe... anyway thanks for posting the advice for all to see!</p>
<p>JM:
Plebes have to be back Jan 4. I do not know about upperclass.</p>
<p>I think plebe summer is the most demanding, structured and difficult. Once classes start, the rules are more relaxed, but that is offset by the presence of the upperclass who can make a plebe recite rates etc, at a moment's notice. I also think the experience depends on the particular company. Some are more rigid than others.</p>
<p>There is drinking at the Academy, but it is off the yard, and hopefully by those who are at least 21. Remember that the age range for each class is wide. Plebes, for example, may come from the fleet, NAPS, Foundation or have been admitted after their third application try. It is possible for a plebe to already be 21. Even of age, plebes may not drink, period, or they risk separation.</p>
<p>Happy Holidays and Good Luck.
CM</p>
<p>The entire Brigade must be back on the Yard by 1800 on January 4th. Academic Boards meet on the 5th and 6th and classes start on the 7th. The only time end of leave times are staggered is at the end of the summer before Academic Year starts. In 2005 the Firsties are requiredto be back on August 16th while the 2nd and 3rd class are due back on August 17th.</p>