Every U.S. Military Service Academy Explained (What are they like?)

[@saltyroe3179]

My dad attended the Merchant Marine Academy when it was new. He was already attending NYU engineering program. The US was desperate for engineering officers for the Merchant Marine in WW2 so the program was very short. Then he went to sea as an assistant engineer. In his short service (less than 4 years) he became a chief engineer, Lt. Cmndr., obtained an unlimited masters license from the Coast Gaurd, was torpedoed, staffed by FW190, married my mom, made port calls all over the world. He is still with us and will be 98 in 2023. BTW he gets sea sick easily

[@jameslongar6703]

Salute from a fellow grad ! JK Longar 81😊

[@АндрейЮ-м2э]

Great 👍

[@johnshacklett2265]

Magnificent! Many thanks to him for his service during the war!

[@lordgldenstern836]

🫡

[@billhiggins-ha4all795]

@@jameslongar6703 81's great... better than '78!

[@edjarrett3164]

I’m a USAFA grad. It was an education of a lifetime. My summer programs were what really made an impact. Spent six weeks in army training (airborne, recondo). Spent six weeks with the Japanese Self Defense forces. Trained many cadets during the summer. I think I was blessed with these many opportunities. It would never have happened if I hadn’t attended the Academy. Attended Reagan’s inauguration parade by staying with folks in USNA. They were awesome and welcoming. You won’t go wrong attending any of these academies.

[@ayyjayy2583]

what made you stand out to be accepted? Please get back to me!!

[@edjarrett3164]

@@ayyjayy2583 Solid academics with SAT and ACT scores. Extracurricular activities to include community and sports. You have to pass a pre screen and physical fitness test along with a physical. It’s a long process, but if you’re strong physically and meet or exceed the SAT requirements and gpa, you have a very good chance at being nominated. Each Congressman has a nomination quota and there are Presidential nominees for certain categories.

[@ayyjayy2583]

@@edjarrett3164 thanks for replying man. If you don’t mind me asking, what was your score?

[@edjarrett3164]

@@ayyjayy2583 it was many years ago. I think 650 in English and 550 in math when 800 was the max score. I ended up in the prep school to improve those SAT scores with a direct appointment. It was a long process looking back.

[@MegaMongrol]

You can also commission as a Marine Corps officer out of west point, though it is very rare and difficult .

[@MegaMongrol]

@@ethanc.9893I'll give you the benefit of the doubt, since my information is coming from a 2011 graduate friend of mine who did this. However, in the past it was definitely possible to graduate out of West Point as a USMC officer, although it was a difficult process.

[@joeylandis8735]

I commissioned Marines from USAFA.

[@joeylandis8735]

​@@ethanc.9893 With 4 classmates my year.

[@kaydenchan7093]

There is something called cross commissioning, but only 2-5 cadets/midshipmen get cross commissioned every year.

[@FancySeeingYouHere]

A midshipman doesn’t commission from West Point. There is a cadet/midshipman exchange program

[@kenh.3857]

I graduated from the US Air Force Academy, an experience that I truly cherish. If you can get through an Academy, you can accomplish almost anything in your life... They give and teach you the methods of how to become successful in your years of service, leadership, and learn how to navigate complex situations and be successful. It was hard to get into the three major service academies, the congressional nomination being a big part of that, but you must have the grades, sports, and commitment to community or other agencies that show you want to serve your nation and not just yourself. Academics were hard for me, but through lots of studying, I did well. I would never make or require a family member to go, but they have to have a deep desire to serve their nation and a strong self interest to get through all the rigors that school puts you through!!!

[@kxdi1308]

what did your highschool grades look like

[@kenh.3857]

@@kxdi1308 I entered the AF Academy in 1984, a lot has change since then..... It was the Cold War, our greatest enemy was the then USSR and my class was one of the largest ever brought into the Academy, just over 1500. We graduated just over 1000. I see every year what the SAT, ACT and GPA's (Averages) are for the incoming class and they have higher than what I had... I suggest you look on line and there are lots of information on what to do to get into a Service Academy (grades just being one of them). The Air Force Academy also has a Prep School, so if a prospective student is not quite there academically, he may be picked to go there for 1 year to "prep" himself for the 4 year experience. You can not choose that, but it may be offered if your son/daughter meets their criteria.

[@billhiggins-ha4all795]

I graduated from the Naval Academy in May 1981. My plebe summer roommate, Admiral Frank Caldwell, is still on active duty 42 years later as the Director of naval reactors. That plebe summer was the biggest ball buster ever, particularly for the women that were abused by the upper two classes that had none.

[@rogfromthegarage8158]

I think I have you beat. One of my USMA 86 classmates is Vice Chief of Staff of the Army - 4 star, second highest person in the Army.

[@ethan8017]

@@rogfromthegarage8158Yeah, I went to boot camp with a guy named Wilson, and he got kicked out after a year.

[@ryandickson2224]

@@ethan8017 Oh yeah? Well, I went to Air Force boot camp in 2022 with a guy who got med-boarded in week 2 for an anxiety attack!

[@MYZTICTRAVLER]

First, thanks for doing this video. Second, thanks for showing such great diversity in the stock videos you chose for this video. Fun facts: My father served at West Point as cadre. I served at the U.S.A.F. Academy as cadre. The cadets at the USAFA were so filled with, and fueled by a love of country and devotion to duty.....so inspirational!

[@billhiggins-ha4all795]

Many academies have prep schools, to help prepare applicants. It would be great to see a video about them. Some of my best prepared classmates of USNA '81 were those that went to NAPS. Enlisted navy can go to NAPS en route to USNA and commissioning.

[@davidb5219]

Great video! I’m a senior at USMMA rn. This is by far one of the more accurate videos about KP out there.

[@JBHRN]

Acta Non Verba Davis. John KP '95. Kings Point was such a positive experience for me. Best of luck, you will being in Eldrige pool in no time! Then its all over. Good luck with license exams too. I do not miss that!

[@camerontaylor9808]

beak?

[@STANDARDISSUE_]

This is lowkey perfect, I’m looking into the service academies and don’t know which I want to join. Thank you so much.

[@davidcholdin3845]

Its not a question of which you wanna join, as much as it is where you get in. Apply everywhere, even Coast Guard and USMMA.

[@josiahkim3641]

I got into USMA and I’m in the class of 2028. Let me know if u have questions. I got into USMA and won 4yr full rides through the ROTC scholarship. I have friends at every academy.

[@lordvenomous6335]

@@josiahkim3641See you in the Summer!

[@Zoom_1012]

Man, I had NO clue how extensive all these academies were. Wow! Great video as always!! 🌴☀️🌴

[@johnhadley7715]

All government programs focus on giving the taxpayers the best return. Hence, you WILL BE WORKED. Hard. My 4 years at USMMA were the hardest 5 years I ever spent anywhere. It was humbling, but I ended up with THREE documents: USCG License, BS degree, and my USNR commission. You get nothing like this at the other four schools. After my 40 years (1969-2009) I was surprised to be retired! You will see a lot, learn a great deal, learn how to use your time, drive yourself - and best of all, be exposed to very very good people, so you know how good you have to be in order to achieve your goals. Good luck, keep reading, and keep driving. ACTA NON VERBA

[@louisrandall2007]

I once ask a LTC what’s the difference between West Point and ROTC officers, he told me: “WP officers are more cookie cutter and standardized, ROTC officer are more different and diverse but quality may vary.” Now having commissioned from ROTC, I have to say that his words are right.

[@ernestdesimone2234]

@@lifesabeach5405 They don't automatically get Regular Commissions at USAFA anymore, I would assume the Army is the same..? You start out with a Reserve Commission just like an ROTC grad and later get a Regular Commission.

[@jaycho6747]

What’s the difference between ROTC and the academies? Is ROTC just a more watered down version? (No disrespect, real question) They both produce officers when they come out right?

[@louisrandall2007]

@@jaycho6747 it's not a watered down version (depending on which school hosts the program), but more like alternative version. So the academies can only host so many cadets, and ROTC allows other universities to produce officers as well. Honestly, the main training starts when we get to our job schools (after academy or ROTC) and our unit, then everyone is pretty much level ground.

[@jaycho6747]

@@louisrandall2007 thank you for the break down and the explanation of the differences. I really appreciate it. I am in my early thirties, and I am planning to join ROTC to hopefully become an officer in USAF. I am hoping to find this to be the most feasible route, since the cut off for the academy stops at 23 years old for entry. This was really helpful.

[@GeneralDischarge]

Which service academy is your favorite? If you enjoyed our video and want to help us put out more content, you can do so by joining our Patreon: www.patreon.com/GeneralDischarge

[@jaimearredondo787]

Annapolis

[@Blubblub13]

USCGA for me, I’d like to go through that for college then try to get in MSRT

[@11bravo72]

The Air Force looks like what I would expect your super fraternities based dudes would go. Looks like a fun place.

[@crusader318]

USNA for me

[@gavinalvarez7272]

BUDS

[@BroncoIsBack]

I got into both USAFA and West Point this year. Biggest achieve of my life!

[@andrewnorfolk3898]

Congrats! I got into USAFA this year too. Wish you luck.

[@n1njachikin]

Don’t listen to them. Go to West Point, don’t be a zoomie.

[@richardbaranzini8805]

You can’t get into both so choose AFA

[@ldarbonnemagic]

Congrats! I was accepted at AF and Naval Academy. Went AF and served 20 years.

[@jd.3493]

Congrats. I went to WSU. GO Cougs!

[@davidlemmon4603]

Kudos to any/all alumni of our US service academies. Quite an accomplishment to graduate from one of these institutions.... These academies are invaluable at creating exceptional leaders for our military, prepared for national defense amongst so many other contributions to America... Whoever had the foresight to design/approve/implement these academies should be recognized. I think we should have "Medical Service" academies for doctors and "Engineering-Science" academies for the advancement of American technology.. These are invaluable professions that we need more people to pursue.

[@josephdecarlo4869]

I made a cameo at the end! In all seriousness USMMA is a great option, and some of the things not mentioned but are available to USMMA MIDS are as follows: 1. The ability to serve on US Army, Navy, and Coast Guard Vessels in addition to or in place of Merchant Ships (typically done during 2nd Sailing) 2. The ability to choose any government commissioning job; Graduates have gone after careers in fields like DHS 3. You can commission reserves and go into a civilian job so long as you maintain your license and fulfill your military commitment 4. If you are worried about keeping up a license while in Active Duty, you may place it into continuity while preforming your service 5. It is also Division III and slightly smaller than the USCGA (But most of our sports programs have beaten them for the last 10-20 years) 6. This is a recent change, but sailing is divided into A, B, or C splits whereas A and B go out during 3rd and 2nd years while C goes out 3rd, 2nd, and 1st Class years 7. Depending on the Coast Guard requirements, sea year will usually last about 110 days to 120 days for 1st sailing (if you maximize your time), and about 8 months or less (plus an internship anywhere you want, civilian or military) for 2nd. 8. Internships are available for every class year and can be completed so long as you have approval from the Academy; 1 is required to graduate Hope this clears some info on 'Americas Best Kept Secret' Otherwise, General Discharge did a fantastic job with the limited information on the internet!

[@anonymouse...]

To

[@germanstudent06]

I was unaware of the Medal of Honor prodigy loophole. That's a pretty cool feature!

[@garyb2392]

I genuinely regret I couldn’t go to West Point. My family and I were completely ignorant to the requirements for entry until it was too late…we thought it would be just like apply to UCLA. The more you know ! I can’t be disappointed with the life I’ve built but still wonder what would have been. This was awesome ! For me, about 40yrs too late lol but still good info and wish anyone wanting to serve all the best

[@bigfish1026]

Finally something other than Seals, Delta Force, Navy Corpsman, and Rangers.

[@geordiewishart1683]

Of all the Rangers, Glasgow Rangers are the best. WATP!

[@SomethingSpecial.]

Funny I see this after reading Japanese WW2 veteran stories. One Japanese Sailor talked about his boot camp experience where on day 1 of their training, their RDCs treated them like brothers, then day 2 to everyones shock they were screaming at them and treating them as you expect. Of course, when one IJN Recruit had a slash on his recruit cap get misaligned, it got met with the entire divison, literally, having their asses beat with a leather belt. In the Imperial Japanese Navy boot camp, recruits were punched in the face, slapped, and beaten for failure and the RDCs would make them fold their hammocks at such fast rates that it was impossible to do it in the time they wanted. Now what differentiates this from the U.S is you're allowed to get food still, in the IJN they did it to ensure recruits missed a meal. their food was often watery misso soup, small veggies/fish, and low-grade brown rice. All of this too culminating for a 17 hour a day training for months that saw rowing, calestenics, academics, swimming and more. So next time someone here is worried about boot camp or the difficulties of Service academy life, remember, you're at least not in what was the japanese imperial navy.

[@ronaldbrown8792]

Fantastic video and information. This old Marine salutes all who serve. PI in '68, Nam in '69-70. Marine for ever. Semper Fi.

[@frequentlycynical642]

Thank you, and thanks for including the often forgotten Coast Guard and Merchant Marine academies. My father was a Coastie for four years during WWII, a lot of the time aboard ships. North Atlantic sub patrol, to the Philippines where his ship would have been involved in the invasion of Japan.

[@mastergibbss2009]

My great grandfather was in the coastguard in ww2 and my other great grandfather was in the air force

[@duckduckgoosevit4288]

Just got my West Point Appointment! USMA 2027

[@GeneralDischarge]

Congratulations!

[@emmanuelawosusi2365]

​@@GeneralDischarge great video

[@johnleong4096]

LET'S GO!!! I also recently got my appointment for USMA 2027 too, I'll see you there!

[@emmanuelawosusi2365]

@@johnleong4096 nice

[@cheesestar467]

I'm a plebe at West Point right now. We're going to get recognized in about two weeks. My class will be y'alls team leaders, so see you here.

[@scottstewart5784]

I was talking to the Air Force Academy Recruiter/Liaison Officer, back in junior year of high school in '78. After he finished, I asked him what the catch was to this awesome sounding program, beyond the discipline of course. He said you pay it back by working a minimum of five years as an Officer. I still didn't get it, so I naively asked him if we got paid during those five years. I thought it was maybe a modern indentured servitude/apprenticeship arrangement. Long story short I graduated from there - best decision of my life - everything I am and have stems from it. The academics are really top notch, Colorado Springs is the only big US city (

[@davidwadsworth8982]

Merchant Marine Academy Grads do earn the bug bucks. After 10 years in the Army,I started a Merchant Marine Career as a deck ape up to First Mate. Took class at New York Maritime College in non shipping season on the lakes.There are 5 state Maritime Colleges in the country Maine, Mass. New York, Texas,and California who offer B.S..Degrees. They all have a Military Like structure and cadet corps system.All have training ships. Summer Cruise programs. You can get reserve officer status as well upon graduation. Texas Maritime is part of Texas A and M University.These schools provide another way to be a commissioned officer.

[@stephenbritton9297]

I have classmates from Maine Maritime who are O-5's and O-6's in the Navy and CG. Also know people who went Marines and even the Maine Air National Guard recruits grads for pilot/flight officer.

[@davidwadsworth8982]

@@stephenbritton9297 I was a part timer who took job related training and class's. But got to know undergrads, and because I was prior service in the Army,spent one summer as cadre. Surprised the crap out of the swabs when I yelled tention right face forward march, DOUBLE TIME HO and ran the whole campus twice..Many regular students did take reserve commission's 6 went Army. 5 Reserve 1 national Guard. Cadet Corps discipline was strong,straight and fair.And demanding,nothing wrong with that.

[@JavelinSST]

My son is at the Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA). They may not be as physical on them as the other service academies, but they beat them down with academics especially in 1st year. It's brutal with trimesters consisting of 19 credit hours per trimester on average. And you are right, the USMMA grads do earn big $$ if they go mariner route but some do join other services as active duty in light of this. But having a choice to go active duty or the mariner route is pretty cool. If they go mariner route they have to give 8 years reserve duty as officers in any of the branches, usually Navy or Coast Guard since those align best with their chosen career fields. The sea year is a very unique hands on year that teaches them all about their chosen career but they will have lots of school work and reports to do while on this sea year. Many go overseas to many cool world ports. Overall, all academies are pretty awesome and it's all a matter of what potential cadets want out of their careers. USMMA is the only service academy under the Dept. of Transportation and does have nomination requirements just like USAFA, USNA and USMA. As a final note, the USMMA is the best place to be for R&R because they are in Kings Point, NY, just 30 minutes away from party and pizza town, Manhattan!

[@brandonbp122]

I was a lance corporal during college and took Navy ROTC for shits and giggles. They pressed me hard to go Marine Officer. I didn't want that shit. I just wanted the fun of college ROTC. But what I didn't know is that those fuckers make you go run at 5am. In college. Sometimes I was still drinking at 5am in college! I was a better lance corporal than an officer. 😆

[@larrycummings7300]

My son graduated from MMC. He’s an 0-4 in the Navy Reserve.

[@kdot445]

Can you do Military Colleges next like Norwich, VMI, Citadel, etc?

[@johnhadley7715]

Ask about Texas A&M; they have a strong cadet corps, very good artillery grads, and a proven record of valor.

[@jedcosby7000]

One small thing, we don't have to do 3 years in the regular reserves after active duty, it's "Individual Ready Reserves" (IRR) which is a backup force that doesn't do weekend drills or any duties like the reserves do. They can only be activated by the President in time of war so basically our service commitment is 5 years active duty and then it's over.

[@kevykevTPA]

IRR can be activated, though. I almost was when the whole Iraq thing happened and I had just gotten out. They called me one day and said "Mr. MYNAME, the is the US Army, we just wanted to know if we had the right contact info for you in case you get called back. They did. How, I never knew, but... They found me LOL. I did NOT end up activated, and now I am in my 50s and disabled, so it would be bleak times indeed if I ever were, but... If the needs got that insane, I'd go. I can't walk, but I can drive a computer, hell, I am a pilot and could learn to fly a drone in no time. So, there are areas someone like me could be useful, it's just the front lines are in my distant past at this point.

[@deusvult6920]

When I was on AD we had 4 people that were recalled to AD from the IRR to deploy with us to Iraq. Ot mostly depends on your MOS. I was an MP, we were the most deployed MOS from 04 - 09 and we were about 10k soldiers short of our manning goals, lots of empty billets. People were always stop loss / stop movement. We will be going to war again before this decade is over and the military is vastly undermanned. They'll be recalling IRR folks before they draft, and we're already undermanned across the board. Don't go in thinking you'll skate in ORR

[@danielhughes5517]

I work on a golf course in Mobile Alabama and I always see Coast Guard choppers flying over, always give them a thumbs up. Thanks to all who serve!!

[@JohnSlider]

The summary is on target from my experience. Here are some additional comments that will provide some nuances. 1. I was Marine OCS (civilian college). I found that INITIALLY, OCS graduates were better adjusted initially to Marine Corps culture than NROTC or Academy courses. 2. Through my career I encountered graduates of the Military, Naval, Air Force, and Coast Guard academies. There was little if any "ring knocking" in the Marine Corps - that is, officers who drew attention to or played up their academy graduations. All Marine commissioning sources were equal. 3. The Marine Corps uses chaplains and medical personel from the Navy. These officers and enlisted personel are authorized to wear all Marine Corps uniforms, including the dress blues! 4, The Basic School (TBS) is the entry point for all Marine officiers. I graduated in March 1976 (Bravo 76, yes I am old). At that time we were assigned to live in "suites," which were to rooms of 2 Lts joined with a "head" (bathroom). I was civilian source (OCS), but my roommate was Naval Academy, and the two other suite mates were West Point and Air Force academy graduates. My understanding was that it took an act of Congress for the West Pointer and Air Force Lts to transfer. It is not impossible, but difficult. Semper Fi.

[@FAFO131]

I knew a guy who went to the merchant marine academy, but commissioned into the Army. Go figure, he decided to work with boats in the Army Transportation Corps.

[@kaydenchan7093]

I applied for the three major service academies. I didn’t make it sadly. I feel like I’m breaking down. Have fun there. Here is one tip: KNOW WHEN TO APPLY, when you apply earlier, your candidate kit will be due earlier, so continue being active.

[@1Maccabee]

ask yourself this very crucial question: *What do I want to do?* Infantry? Tanks/Armor? Artillery? Fly helos/fixed wing? Intelligence? Special Ops? Sail big gray floating prisons, err, ships? Go on subs? also, all of these cadets and midshipmen are in extremely controlled, highly inflexible schedules, even by comparison to the seniors. ROTC is a far easier, far more chill way to go about getting a commission.

[@kaydenchan7093]

@@1Maccabee A military pilot.

[@Itstwofourteen]

Was this recent? Because if it was, you still have plenty of time. If you just wanna fly, the Army's Flight Warrant Officer program is pretty damn solid. No need for a college degree nor enlisted time (last I've heard). Besides, Warrant Officers are fucking cool. Although, keep this in mind: in the Army, it's mostly rotary wing, with very (VERY!) few fixed wing options. If that is not what you desire and you want to be an officer, then just attend any university with a solid ROTC program of your preferred branch. Or talk to an OSO/Officer Recruiter in your area and see what your options are. Just don't quit. If there's a will, there's a way.

[@NaturalStateDepths]

Sorry to hear about that man. Keep in mind ROTC is always an option as well. They offer full ride scholarships and you get to have the traditional college experience but do it responsibly as you're still going to be held to a high standard. It's the route I went and I'm currently an Army Reserve Captain. Don't give up, there's always another option.

[@kaydenchan7093]

@@NaturalStateDepths I talked to an AFROTC at one of the colleges I was accepted into. I am considering to go to AFROTC now. Thx bud :)

[@chrisakins692]

At the Naval Academy Freshmen = Plebes, Sophomores = Youngsters, Juniors = 2nd Class, Seniors = Firsties. Surprised you didn't mention the Herndon tradition at the end of Plebe Year.

[@GeneralDischarge]

There was a lot to unpack in just one video - we plan on doing a dedicated video on each of the service academies in the future.

[@TristenTheArgonian]

Could you do a Video on State Defense Forces at some point? I think more people should know about them for those who are Disqualified from military service.

[@kharness2109]

USMA and USNA grads can serve in any service. It’s just rare for them to serve in a service different than the academy. Met a few navy officers who were USMA grads and Army officers who were USNA grads.

[@djlolley]

Great content in this video. Lots of accurate and great information. Covers a ton of valuable things that many other videos miss. Also, USCGA is the best! Go Bears.

[@Kramer_pphead]

You should do a video on the 18x contract as it is related to your content helping out sof hopefuls and the 18x contract is arguably the best contract for sof hopefuls

[@madmaximus2836]

My son applied to the USNA while enlisted. He enlisted as a Nuke and finished A-School and Power school (12 months). He applied while in Power school. If your grades are good in Nuke school then your chances are about 50% to be accepted to the USNA. The Navy also handles the required nomination for you (everyone who applies get a nomination from the Secretary of the Navy).

[@hoosierplowboy5299]

Excellent presentation, sir! My dear nephew is a West Point graduate; tough program...😊

[@ShaneSimpson1]

Can you do a video on the State Maritime Academies?

[@NangNangEE]

I can't find any rude words here. Which is very respectful and shows what military can affect people who serves. 👍

[@JavelinSST]

My son is at the Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA). They may not be as physical on them as the other service academies, but they beat them down with academics especially in 1st year. It's brutal with trimesters consisting of 19 credit hours per trimester on average. The USMMA grads do earn big $$ if they go mariner route but some do join other services as active duty in light of this--you have to love what you do or no amount of money will make you happy🚢. But having a choice to go active duty or the mariner route is pretty cool. If they go mariner route they have to give 8 years reserve duty as officers in any of the branches, usually Navy or Coast Guard since those align best with their chosen career fields. The sea year is a very unique hands on year that teaches them all about their chosen career but they will have lots of school work and reports to do while on this sea year. Many go overseas to many cool world ports. Overall, all academies are pretty awesome and it's all a matter of what potential cadets want out of their careers. USMMA is the only service academy under the Dept. of Transportation and does have nomination requirements just like USAFA, USNA and USMA. As a final note, the USMMA is the best place to be for R&R because they are in Kings Point, NY, just 30 minutes away from party and pizza town, Manhattan! ⚓

[@michaelripperger5674]

My DD is at USMMA- that school has the most amount of options. It’s amazing all the different opportunities they have!

[@jason60chev]

I received a nomination to MMA, but my SAT score was just shy of acceptance.

[@JavelinSST]

@@jason60chev Really sorry to hear that. The trick is to take the SAT or ACT as often as you can during the year you are applying. My son took ACT 4 times and SAT once. He tended to do better on ACT over SAT so that's why he focused on ACT. Can't remember what his SAT score was but not very good. His first ACT was 23, second ACT was 25, third ACT 26, 4th ACT 28. There is also prep schools if you can go that route. Or just try again next year if you are still interested. You can keep trying to get into service academies until about 22 years old. In the mean time, you can take college courses, or the alternate route is ROTC. Good luck in whatever route you choose!

[@JavelinSST]

@@michaelripperger5674 Absolutely! USMMA is not as big and we'll known as the other service academies, but they offer just as great opportunities as the other DOD academies and truly the only ones that offer a choice in whether to go full active duty or just reserves if they choose the mariner route. 🙂

[@jason60chev]

@@JavelinSST Thanks. That experience was 43 years ago!!!!LOL. Had taken SAT 3X and highest score was 900. MMA cut off min. was 950. Ended up at The Citadel, where I was something of a screw up cadet, so,it's just as well. I did graduate, but with my personal biases, bad developed attitude and overall bitterness, I lost all focus about getting a commission. I think i was lucky to graduate. 5 years later applied for Air Force OTS, but it was highly competitive. No joy.

[@fedupgamer9075]

DO YOU EVEN WANNA BE HERE?! Awesome video!

[@jamesclapp6832]

My experience with Regular Army officers was that they were very, shall we say, career oriented.

[@josiahkim3641]

USMA ‘28 here. Trust me. The process is not easy, but if it’s what you truly desire, you will find success in either Prep Schools, 4yr ROTC scholarships, or Academy routes

[@ukr4n1an63]

Bro hasn’t even started Indoc for USMAPS and is giving advice

[@richnaper6666]

Lol talk less cadet, study more (CPT, ROTC ‘14)

[@grantfuller6123]

💀

[@goldenw]

I was looking for this video. Thank you General

[@darkenergy7904]

As someone who is going into the USNA Summer Seminar, I find this video very informative

[@GeneralDischarge]

Thanks!

[@notyou6942]

Ay same see u there

[@benjaminstowell8477]

I went to that last year; I've now been accepted and will be attending USNA in just over two months. I hope to see you there someday in the future.

[@michaelripperger5674]

Also Apply for USMMA

[@commsR]

Loving the information! Could you make a video about if and how MARSOC Raiders can get into Delta Force?

[@charlespapineau5428]

God bless all those who attended these great academies! Thank you for your service!

[@aragorn4242]

haven't achieved any service yet !!!!

[@charlespapineau5428]

@aragorn4242 I said to "all those who attended," which is past tense, so that includes those who are on active duty now, those who are retired and those who have given their lives for our freedom.

[@DJBigSarge]

Great Job! I wish we had KZbin when I was a pup. I would have definitely did it differently.

[@adamshotts6097]

West Point is my favorite. Plus I have had a teacher who graduated from West Point in Class of 1970, if I recall correctly

[@Cpt_Dibis]

as a cadet officer in the AEN (Greek MM officers academy) i wanted to join the USMMA in kings poing, went and saw the place in the summer and i have to say its great ! for anyone thinking about joining go do it, its a very difficult academy but very worth it !!!

[@SugarFreeZaddy]

Have you considered doing a full-year transfer? I forgot what the program is named but I made many friends at the US Naval Academy. They all were cadets/midshipmen from various countries’ academies. I’ll ask a friend how they were able to spend a year at a US academy if you’re interested.

[@Cpt_Dibis]

@@SugarFreeZaddy i really want to do that ! after i am done with the first mandatory 6M deploment i want to try it !

[@FilosofoCA]

So those academies you have to be in the military or you join the military after you graduate?

[@duxbutio3414]

You should do a video on the Senior Military Colleges

[@Cr1ptik]

you should to videos on all of the senior military colleges

[@tubbytuesdays2895]

Hey I love the videos you guys do, they’re very helpful and learn a lot and I was wondering if you guys could make a video on VMI (Virginia military institute) I will be going there this august and plan on serving after I graduate

[@joshuapage853]

U should do one on the non branch specific military academies like VMI and the Citadel

[@loganleroy8622]

I visited the Citadel once. It was like the Disneyland version of the military. Such a weird place.

[@crook7493]

@@loganleroy8622thats a funny way to put it

[@CooperKasin-wo3rd]

You should do a video on private military colleges next

[@user-vm5ud4xw6n]

I didn’t learn anything that would be directly applicable but I did learn quite a bit. Having spent 3 years in the Army, 5 or 6 as a civilian contractor then, married to an enlisted man for 461/2 years (14 1/2 years were the last of his service)it was interesting to hear about the services from a collegiate perspective.

[@Alfeco-dm7uk]

Can you do a video about naval intelligence??? Thanks

[@dlow53]

great vid. Can you explain how The Citadel works and schools like it in a future video?

[@tatertotbot]

The Citadel requires ROTC

[@ellerjoseph]

United States Senior Military College The Citadel, Norwich, VMI, Virginia Tech, Texas A&M, Univ of North Georgia.

[@chrisgiles64]

Really well done video!

[@hawawa_]

Citizens of allied countries can also study in some of the service academies, they need to apply from their home country through their own government who then contacts the US government for all the procedures, they also need the backing from their nation’s legislature. At the end of their studies they become officers in their home’s armed forces. The numbers of slots available for foreign students varies from academy to academy.

[@BrunoPadovani-t7g]

I graduated from the Naval Academy in 1980 and we had at least two midshipmen from the Philippines (one is still a friend) and one from Chile. The current summer training curriculum seems to have changed a bit from my time. We did our first Navy cruise as "enlisted" personnel between freshman & sophomore years, and "Protramid" + aviation/submarine/marine training between our sophomore & junior years. In the video it was flipped.

[@USN1985dos]

Also, we had an Annapolis grad join our ship my 2nd year in the Navy. Imagine like this really short nerd but who had a girlfriend that he loved. Shortly after he arrived, we went on a 2-month exercise over to the UK, and when we got back to Norfolk, he dipped out. He didn't show up for duty, and when the command went about trying to locate him, he wouldn't answer his phone and he wasn't at his apartment. So on the 29th day of him being UA (AWOL for the Navy), he shows up. It was obvious that he didn't want to get hit with desertion charges which he would've gotten if he'd gone a full month. Our Captain, who was also an Annapolis grad, was livid. He read the dude the riot act, said he'd never seen an officer behave that way, and said that basically the only reason he was giving him a second chance was because he'd gone to the Naval Academy too. So this young Ensign is restricted to the ship, because we're about to get underway again in a few days, and lo & behold, the morning that we're going to get underway, he sneaks off the ship and bolts. 30 days later, we're back in port, and here he shows up again. Captain was like "nope." They stripped him of his commission and gave him the option of the brig, paying back the money he owed for his education, or serving an enlistment starting as an E-1. I'm pretty sure he chose E-1 since he couldn't afford the debt.

[@basicyoutubeusername3253]

Could you do a video on the CIA Protective Agent? Like how do they compare to other protection agencies like the Secret Service or DSS?

[@sjwilloughby-greene8214]

Great video. Thank you. 🫡

[@robpayne183]

My niece is a graduate of the Merchant Marine Academy and is now a Nuclear Engineer in the Navy.

[@GeneralDischarge]

That's awesome!

[@cedarmuleman8484]

Can you do one for the senior military institutes? Going to the citadel here in the fall!

[@ronaldandlinda]

There are other academies. There is the Citadel and VMI (Virginia Military Institute). I know there are others, but the point is that there are more than 5 military academies.

[@sunnykundi2479]

While it's true that there are additional military colleges like the Citadel and VMI, the term "service academies" typically refers to the five federal academies: USMA, USNA, USAFA, USMMA, and USCGA. These five academies directly commission graduates as officers in their respective branches.

[@johnregan2077]

@@sunnykundi2479 With the exception of Merchant Marine, which is not a military branch, but a Civilian Industry.

[@geraldhardy4257]

I think all military officers should be enlisted for at least one year before they can become a Commissioned Officer.That would make them better leaders.I'm a 16 yr 8mont 4 days VETERAN SGT(P)

[@dhum2770]

Enlisted in 1987, all I can add to this video is if you want a college experience where you can party & get laid, then do a normal 4-year college with ROTC. You come out as an O1 ... the same as an Academy. Both of those tracks easily get you to O2 & O3 every 4ish years. At that point, it's not where you did your undergraduate, but your performance in the service if you wish to continue higher. If not = Honorable Discharge ... with a $$ civilian job if you chose the right MOS.

[@jaycho6747]

What’s the difference between ROTC and the academies? Is it just a watered down version?

[@chrisdraughn5941]

Why the crappy modulation on the voice track? Sounds like you’re making ransom demand...

[@ElderOps1]

Currently a plebe at usmma, if you don’t want to do all the physical stuff other academies do go here. Your only physical requirement is to pass a prt once a tri. Academics here are probably the hardest with 30% failing out. As far as location, nyc is literally a 30min lirr train away. Money wise we earn $$ as we start with a salary in the merchant marine around six figures. Also we are much more lax in terms of regiment after plebe year.

[@GeneralDischarge]

Good luck at the USMMA! What did you think of the video?

[@michaelripperger5674]

Alexander - congratulations on your recent recognition. Now you feel like a human again ?

[@ElderOps1]

@@michaelripperger5674 thanks, I almost feel human. Just need to be able to wear pt gear in Delano for diners and weekends and mix and match pt gear

[@The_holy_stromboli]

ΚπΣ

[@inyofacekid]

Great video

[@earlgeorge7573]

There were 135 West pointers in my IOBC class and I served with many different West Point officers during my time in the service. I found them to be exceptional(95%) or duds(5%).

[@georgecoull1883]

The baddest operator I've seen was an airmen, John Chapman bravery, courageous, Galant and all heart

[@fuge74]

the academies are dedicated colleges for military service. ROTC Senor Military Colleges are basically the same thing, but have civilian students injected along side them. at a normal ROTC you sort of have a relaxed approach without the intense training and mental mindset. Senor ROTCs like military academies do the same thing having a dedicated wing of ROTC students but unlike academies include civilian instructors and civilian students. the big difference is that SMCs don't require commitment to military service. in an academy you must enter service or face repercussions. the "junoir" military college is just an ROTC program at a normal university/college. they are much more relaxed and are normally "green to gold" participants and so will attend OCS. Military Academies contract direct from completion SMCs contract after performing LDAC other ROTCs also contract through LDAC or you can do OCS if you are a "green to gold". the Green to Gold is a program to turn enlisted into officers through OCS and in association with the ROTC.

[@kevinkelleher8708]

I'm the very proud uncle of 2 Academy (West Point) attendees, 1 at(class of 27), 1 from(class of 03) LTC, MD stationed in Germany.

[@TexasRob28]

Can you do something on "NOAA CORP" ?

[@jnjtiger]

No tuition, job upon graduation, resume builder.

[@lloydreid3936]

Well done!

[@doylebrockman8225]

Army is Army, Navy is the Navy, Marines are Marines,Air Force and Navy forces really are the best air forces in the world. TheU.S. Navy is the best air force behind TheU.S. Airforce.

[@Captain_Cinnamon]

NGL if you re an American I think one of these is not so bad to do - if you re from Europe however - just do whatever you want as long as you keep learning your life long.

[@shouldhavedonebetter]

There are currently 8 uniformed services in the U.S. - you are forgetting the smallest - NOAA. NOAA officers are trained at the Coast Guard Academy - but separately. And for trivia - the US Army actually has a fleet of ships - and their officers are known as Marine Deck Officers, and their training is pretty arduous - first - Warrant Officer Basic Course, then Warrant Officer Intermediate Course, then Warrant Officer Advanced Course, then the Marine and Intermodal Training Department of the U.S. Army Transportation School.

[@Ryukuro]

Got a chance to visit the air force adademy some years back. That one fancy building you see in all the brocures is a multireligous church. Its even got a buddhist temple in there. Pretty cool ngl.

[@jonwang999]

Some of the points missed in this excellent video. The Coast Guard Academy does not require congressional nomination. Also, the Naval Academy second years are call Youngsters.

[@Beefcakes9000]

Great video idea keep it up

[@GeneralDischarge]

Thanks!

[@sideofgoals984]

I’m planning to go to Westpoint or become a USMC Officer. I plan to work in Military Police, Nightstalkers/Rangers, or MARSOC Raiders.

[@jacobowen8406]

Got to see some of my buddies in the clips using West Point. Let’s go!!!

[@martingreenberg870]

A critical element about the video that was left out is the academics. The core curriculum is heavy with math and sciences. Also two years of foreign language. At some of the academies you can major in management or history. Most cadets or midshipmen earn engineering. All earn BS degrees. Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)

[@sixtyskills2814]

For all applicants. USAFA has the weakest grad network of the service academies and is virtually unknown among employers outside DoD. If you want to work in industry, West Point and Annapolis are the way to go.

[@seankim9143]

Not necessarily. I agree we do have the shortest history compared to USMA and USNA but the industry leaders definitely recognize all service academies pretty well and of course including USAFA. Plus you shouldn't attend service academies to have better chances of getting hired by industries. Instead, your motivation should be becoming a better officer.

[@sixtyskills2814]

@@seankim9143 IME USAFA is virtually unknown outside DoD. And people need to think long term. No one is guaranteed a career at this point afa the Air Force is concerned. Devoting yourself to an organization that has no loyalty to its graduates is a bad decision.

[@marcmeinzer8859]

The merchant marine staffs both the navy’s military sealift command auxiliary vessels such as oil tankers and fast combat supply vessels plus the maritime administration’s ready reserve fleet. Then also they work aboard both US flag merchant vessels and even foreign flag merchant vessels if there are no jobs available in the relatively small US flag merchant fleet. And then finally, if there are no available jobs aboard American merchant ships they may actually become yacht bums if they wish, as there are paid positions aboard large ocean going yachts as well.

[@jason60chev]

I attended The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, Charleston. Founded 1842. I am Class of 1984.

[@deadlyoneable]

OCS Navy here. I don’t regret my route. I don’t think I could deal with the academy. They come into the fleet like a cult member.

[@caclayton2007]

Could you cover Texas A&M's Corps of Cadet next as I would like to know how it compares to the service academies.

[@michaelcraig58]

Students at A&E are organized as cadets, and graduate with appropriate licenses from the U.S. Coast Guard and/or U.S. Merchant Marine. While no longer immediately offered a commission as an Officer within a service have the opportunity to participate in commissioning programs like Strategic Sea lift Officer Program (USN) and MARGRAD (USCG).

[@domepiece11]

FYI, USMA *NEVER* uses up all the admissions slots it reserves for enlisted Soldiers, whether Active, Reserve, or Guard. It's actually the easiest way to get in. You only need a memo from your commander rather than a congressional nomination. Food for thought. There are also other special nomination processes, like JROTC honor unit, dependent of a 100% disabled veteran, etc. My Beast Barracks battle buddy did split training in high school with the New Jersey National Guard and got in that way. She graduated as the Goat of our class - lowest order of merit cadet who still graduates on time. But she still did it!

[@sheilagadde5975]

What wonderful opportunities.

[@MrJoshg0]

I think you should cover the US Army SFAB since they've been around for a few years now

[@clarkfreeman1573]

They actually swapped the summer cruise and PROTRAMID. Also, YP cruises aren't required, but are still quite common.

[@interestedparty497]

Do midshipman still do CSNTS?

[@greenlightforce]

VIDEO REQUEST Good day to you and to your team, I enjoy learning from your videos. Aside from the rank, units, branches, etc.. would you also be able to explain the roles of the continental staff system and maybe other specific offices such as JAGO, ADC, IG, SM, CS, SGS, G1 to G7 (S equivalents), ADJ, COC, PED, RSO, PM, HS? I'm interested to learn how similar or dissimilar military staff functions are compared to the civilian sector. It seems to have too many moving parts compared to a generic civilian office, but I'm sure there is a good explanation. Thank you.

[@paulc6471]

What’s the story with the narrators voice? Sounds like when they interview people but keep their identity secret.

[@AmericanBullet92]

I'm afraid it's way too late for me. Growing up my teachers failed me and now I'm in a deep hole financially and most of my high school graduation class is on rehab or behind bars

[@RS-jh2kl]

Famous Amos learned how to read as an adult. He never quit.

[@loganleroy8622]

Easiest way to get around that is to enlist and then work your way up.

[@blade405]

You missed Norwich University, which is the Olds and the home of Rotc and the old college marching band. Also has ROTC for all the services, and has a civilian college attached.