Fifth Graders Tour West Point Military Academy

By Luke Freeley

Since its founding two centuries ago, the Military Academy has accomplished its mission by developing cadets in four critical areas: intellectual, physical, military, and moral-ethical - a four-year process called the "West Point Experience."

As fifth graders we were not quite ready for that, however, we participated in are own “West Point Experience.” Our journey started by sending in a manifest sheet completed with the names, dates of birth and our gender.  Did you know that this is a requirement since West Point is an active army post?

Our private tour combined a bus and walking tour with our own guide. On the bus we stopped at the main Cadet Chapel, Trophy Point, Battle Monument, the Monument to the Great Chain, the Parade Field and the Old Cadet Chapel.
Our guide covered the history of West Point in an entertaining and informative way.  They focused on its key role in the American Revolution as well as the prominent leadership role West Point graduates have played and continue to play in the shaping of our nation.

After that, we visited the West Point Museum where we explored the wide impact of West Point on the history of our country. We also viewed monuments of historic figures such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Douglas MacArthur, Dwight Eisenhower and even Benedict Arnold.

Overall, our fifth grade “West Point Experience” was informative and entertaining and there was no better way to experience the sweep of America's history than with a tour. Viewing the breathtaking scenery from West Point which overlooks the Hudson River as it winds through the Hudson Highlands was truly awesome!  If you have yet to experience West Point you should check out their private tours, intercollegiate athletics (Go Army, Sink Navy!), concerts, Eisenhower Hall, West Point Golf Course and even Cadet Parades!