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These four institutions, funded by taxpayers through our Congress and Senate, are not only institutions of higher education on par with Duke, UNC-Chapel Hill, NC State, and others, but are also considered active military bases! The service academies are “world class” universities, whose graduates become commissioned officers in the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Merchant Marine services. Marine Corps officers come from within the ranks of the Navy. Men and women in the 11th grade are encouraged to visit these institutions before applications are submitted to the respective academies in the 12th grade, to see if this education and service are “right” for them. Selection of students applying from all 50 states and US Territories require excellent grades, physical fitness, and good moral character. The student applicant must also request a recommendation from the sitting Congressperson of the District in which they reside, one of the two Senators of their state, or the Vice-President.
Admission is competitive, and is akin to receiving a full-tuition scholarship, with room and board. This also includes all books, clothing, and travel expenses. Students start their “college experience” with four weeks of standard “boot camp” military service, just like any other enlisted service-woman or man, including strict discipline, exercise, and military training, including weapons and physical combat! During or after this period of time, some incoming students decide that this experience is not right for them. Those students who graduate in four years receive an amazing education, and will serve for a minimum of five years as officers in one of the services.
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