<p>"What are the chances of the school actually getting shut down? you don't think they would do that do you?"</p>
<p>SeaKid011, rumors never die. That rumor has been floating around for 30 or more years.</p>
<p>That question you asked, you will hear again. It will be long after you graduate and your future son graduates from KP. One day you will hear your future grandson ask you "Grandpa, what are the chances of the school actually getting shut down? You don't think they would do that do you?" </p>
<p>So, Seakid011, don't waste your time worrying about silly rumors, KP is here to stay.</p>
<p>Just an FYI that I've received an email correspondence from my Congressman from the letter I'd sent in regards to budget issues discussed here. Its the only response I've received to date so just thought I'd share. Letter is as follows:</p>
<p>Dear Mrs. Jamzmom</p>
<pre><code> Thank you for contacting me regarding your concern for continued funding for Kings Point, United States Merchant Marine Academy. I appreciate you taking the time to bring this issue to my attention.
As a veteran of the United States Army, I appreciate the hard work and sacrifice our men and women in all branches of the military give on a daily basis to protect the freedoms you and I enjoy. I support all those in uniform and will help them in any way possible to accomplish their mission. Please extend my thanks to your son for his selfless desire to put his needs second and the service to his country first.
In regards to the funding of Kings Point, it is a very unfortunate side effect of the world economic situation. Costs of food services and health care are rising, while many budgets are decreasing. The pinch of smaller budgets is something being felt throughout the Department of Defense. As a graduate of the Citadel, I am aware of how impressionable these types of service academies can be on those seeking military service. I encourage you to contact your fellow parents and urge them to contact their representatives and explain the situation at Kings Point as you have done for me.
Again, I appreciate you bringing this matter to my attention. I certainly appreciate your activism, and I hope you will continue to contact me should you have concerns about any issue being considered by Congress.
</code></pre>
<p>I too am a graduate of The Citadel and was a "knob" with a cadre squad leader by the name of J Gresham Barrett. The point that I am making is that you can have no finer representative for your cause than Gresham Barrett. When he states that he understands the significance of the academy on young people, HE TRULY DOES, and will fight for your cause. Sorry, just found it extremely interesting to read your concerns and his response. Seeing the name brought back several memories.</p>
<p>knightsdad, no doubt in my mind buddy. I've met him plus he gave my son his nomination to KP. We kinda like him in this household & he got my vote last election. :D He's a great guy that is high up in my book. When you say he truly does care about this, its why he was the first person I wrote to. I am in full agreement. He cares for all academy kids & our service members as a whole. When he told me so when I'd met him, I believed him. Wanna share any of your memories? LOL Bet you have a few!</p>