Parents FAQs

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Parents FAQs

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Find answers on these topics:

R-DayAcceptance Day
Cadet Summer TrainingRing Weekend
Cadet Basic TrainingGraduation
March Back 
Parent-Plebe Weekend 

 

R-Day

Reception Day (R-Day) marks the beginning of your cadet candidate’s 47-month journey at West Point. It’s a day filled with pride, tradition, and transition. Cadet candidates report early in the day to begin in-processing for Cadet Basic Training (CBT) - the first phase of their summer training. Each cadet will receive an assigned reporting time through their candidate portal. While your time together on R-Day is short, we invite families to take part in several activities across campus and to witness the memorable Oath Ceremony in the evening.

Be sure to review the official reporting letter in your candidate’s portal for detailed instructions.

Cadet candidates will receive instructions for reporting via email or via their candidate portal. 

All will enter West Point via Stony Gate and park as directed. All cadet candidates will enter through Stony Gate, following directions provided via email or the candidate portal. 

Upon arrival:

Park in the designated area - Proceed to the Foley Center (indoor practice facility near Michie Stadium) with your cadet candidate, luggage, and any guests.

 

Parents, guardians, and family members are welcome to accompany cadet candidates to West Point. Some candidates may travel alone. More travel information is available on the candidate portal.

After check-in, cadet candidates will move in groups to Eisenhower Hall for a welcome briefing in the theater.

At the end of the briefing, families will have 60 seconds to say goodbye before candidates continue with their in-processing dates, luggage, parents and additional guests will proceed to the Foley Center, the indoor practice facility near Michie Stadium. Once the Cadet Candidates check in, they will be organized into groups and will proceed to Eisenhower Hall. Once at Eisenhower Hall they will receive a welcome brief in the Eisenhower Hall Theater. At the conclusion of the briefing, you will have 60 seconds to say goodbye. The cadet candidates will then continue their in processing for Cadet Basic Training (CBT).

After saying goodbye to your cadet candidate, we invite you to visit the Parent Welcome & Information Area in Eisenhower Hall, open from 6 a.m.-4 p.m. You’ll find:

  • Parent Clubs
  • West Point support services
  • Local vendors and gift shops
  • Representatives from the Red Cross, USAA, and the 50-Year Affiliate Class

Enjoy West Point’s warm hospitality as you begin your journey as a West Point family.

There will be no direct contact with your cadet candidate after the brief farewell in the morning. However, you will have a chance to see them from the stands during the Oath Ceremony later in the day.

The Oath Ceremony, held at 6:30 p.m. on the Plain, is a special moment when new cadets affirm their commitment to West Point by taking the Cadet Oath. This public ceremony is brief but meaningful.

Bleacher seating is available for all guests. Cadets will march onto the Plain in company order (A through I, left to right as viewed from the bleachers) and arranged by height. A map will be available with approximate company locations, but all seats offer a good view of this compact formation.

Shuttles will be available immediately afterward to return guests to the parking areas.

Photos and videos will be shared by West Point Public Affairs and across official platforms throughout the summer:

If you must choose between R-Day and Acceptance Day (A-Day):

  • R-Day: Emotional and ceremonial, but no further contact with your cadet after the morning farewell.
  • Acceptance Day: Marks the end of summer training with a parade and family time afterward. Many families find A-Day a more interactive and rewarding experience.

New cadets should bring receipts for travel costs when they report for R-Day. Within a few days after R-Day, they will meet with staff members who will help enter the information necessary for reimbursement: airline costs, a night in a hotel, incidentals, mileage, etc. 

Keep in mind the government sets limits on allowable costs. Reimbursement will be deposited into the new cadet’s personal account sometime during the summer. 

Please encourage your cadet to submit all required forms for pay as instructed. 

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Cadet Summer Training

Cadet Summer Training takes the form of Cadet Basic Training, Cadet Field Training, or Cadet Leader Development Training.

The length of CST varies. Cadet Basic Training (CBT) lasts about 10 weeks. Cadet Field Training (CFT) lasts 3-4 weeks. Cadet Leader Development Training (CTLT) lasts 4-5 weeks.

Families can view photos and video updated on the Cadet Summer Training web page.

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Cadet Basic Training

New cadets will have an opportunity to call home during their training. Calls are scheduled for the midway point of training. They sometimes are allowed an additional call depending on their training schedule. The timeline is sometimes shared during CBT via social media or email to parents. It is recommended during Cadet Basic Training that parents should keep their phones charged, set ringers to loud, and answer all numbers. 

Cadets are offered the opportunity to call home at the midway point (July 20 – New Cadet Visitation Day between 1-5 p.m.). New Cadet Visitation Day is a time for the cadets to visit with staff and faculty for the afternoon. Cadets often use their own phones, but staff and faculty also offer their phones and sometimes computers or other smart devices for these calls.

During CBT, contact is limited to brief phone calls or regular mail. We ask that you not visit West Point during CBT. This is a time for your sons and daughters to experience the challenges and rigors of their initial training. They will have plenty to share via their letters, phone conversations and your visit during Acceptance Day (details to follow). 

Please know we have staff photographers who do their best to capture many training events to share with family and friends via our website and social media platforms.

New cadets are issued sunscreen and bug repellent (it's a mix of both). Their uniforms are treated before issue, and the repellant is good for up to 25 washes.

Yes, it is very normal for a new cadet to lose weight over the summer. Their eating habits will change from grazing (while at home) to eating 3 family-style meals a day; breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

Understand that there is no soda/junk food, etc. - they drink water, juice, and sports drinks almost exclusively during CBT. They are constantly on the move. They conduct physical training twice a day for the most part. It is not atypical for training to include a field exercise where they walk well over 20 km over 3 days. 

They are being taken care of, but the weight loss is a natural consequence of their lifestyle change. Nutrition is paid very close attention during CBT. They are supplied meals with significant calories to ensure they are properly nourished and have the energy stores needed to complete the expected training. For all major training events, they are offered protein bars and energy drinks. A new cadet’s weight is monitored. It is a point of emphasis for all involved.

All injuries are evaluated and treated on a case-by-case basis. Continuation and participation in training will depend on the severity of the injury.

Information from the Chaplain’s office – New cadets have services at 8 a.m.  Sundays (various locations). The mission requirements of training may supersede scheduled worship, but they are the exception.

If during CBT, call Central Guard Room (845) 938-3030 and leave a message for a member of your new cadet’s TAC team. They will call back once they receive the message. Additionally (VERY IMPORTANT), please notify the American Red Cross.

The Red Cross helps with verification so the chain of command can decide on emergency leave. For more information, please see the Red Cross Emergency Communications web page. In addition to the website, the Red Cross now has a helpful app. You can review the services provided via this site.

The information below is another way for service members and families to start a Red Cross message through our new app. The Hero Care App is available to download for free in app stores, by texting "GETHEROCARE" to 90999 or by clicking this link from a mobile device.

If an emergency occurs after CBT, you can connect directly with your cadet or via the chain of command.

If you feel they may need support, especially if delivering news of a loss in the family, you can call the TAC team via Central Guard Room, (845 938-3030) and ask for a member of the TAC team to return your call. The TAC or TAC NCO will call as soon as possible.

Please know counselors and chaplains are available to support cadets as needed.

If you have further questions, please email the Parents Liaison or call (845) 938-8826.

The out-processing from CBT can take anywhere from 2 to 3 weeks. The initial counseling process by the Chain of Command is deliberately extended over a few days to give the new cadet every opportunity to assess the situation with upperclassmen feedback. At that point, they will speak with their Tactical Officer/Deputy Commander who can explain the benefits and opportunities of a career in the Army. The rest of the time is spent processing the paperwork through the Superintendent. During this portion, the new cadet transitions into the Summer Garrison Regiment where they will turn in their equipment and attend regular accountability formations waiting for their paperwork to be completed.

One of the out-processing tasks at the Tactical Officer level is to contact the parents to inform them. In most cases, the TAC authorizes the new cadet a phone call home as most of the issues tend to revolve around homesickness. In some cases, multiple phone calls are authorized to navigate the situation, but is not the norm as new cadets are supposed to be overcoming the challenges of CBT themselves.

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March Back / Acceptance Day

March Back is the culminating event for CBT. The new cadets, cadre, staff, faculty, and alumni will march (ruck march) from Lake Frederick to the cadet area of West Point on August 11th. The distance covered is approximately 12-14 miles. 

The movement pauses at the Victor Constant Ski Slope, where they will have an opportunity to eat breakfast and take a brief rest before proceeding through Washington Gate. The formation will be joined by the West Point Band and continue through the post, finishing on the apron in front of Washington Hall. 

Please know you will not have any contact with your new cadet during this time, but they appreciate the support shown by those in attendance. The cadets eat lunch on the apron. Once lunch is complete, they will join their academic companies and begin the process of reorganization in preparation for the academic year.

USMA graduates can march back with new cadets at the end of Cadet Basic Training. There are two options. 

Learn more about March Back.

Acceptance Day is when new cadets are accepted into the Corps. The Acceptance Day Parade will take place at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, on the Plain. The parade features the entire brigade of approximately 4,400 cadets. 

Members of the Class of 2028 officially become plebes during the parade. The new cadets march out separately from the rest of their companies, but at a certain point, an order will be given for the companies to open and the new cadets to join the ranks, signifying being accepted into the Corps. 

If traveling with guests needing handicapped accommodations, please know handicapped accessible parking is limited in the area of the Plain. You may wish to drop off guests near the bleachers and park in other lots or along Thayer Road. Shuttle buses will be available for your convenience. 

Hats, sunscreen, and bottled water are recommended depending on the forecast. Point of etiquette for the parade - please remain seated until all cadets have departed the Plain. Thank you!

Following the parade, cadets will be released - (usually) no later than 1 p.m. - to enjoy appropriate privileges. They must return to the barracks by taps. Cadets are released Sunday morning (5:20 a.m.) but must return to the barracks in time for accountability. Cadets will be aware of allowed privileges. 

Yes, cadets are allowed off-post following the parade to enjoy walking privileges. The distance allowed for walking privileges is a 20-mile radius from West Point. Cadets must return 30 minutes before taps (1 a.m.) Sunday, Aug. 17. Cadets are also allowed off-post Sunday, Aug. 17, from 5:20 a.m. until recall formation (for accountability) at 7:15 p.m. unless otherwise informed by their chain of command.

Some local larger towns have a wide array of accommodations, as well as shopping options, such as Target and Walmart. These towns include Newburgh, Nanuet, Fishkill, Wappinger's Falls, Monroe, and Middletown. Please check local maps to confirm roads have not been impacted by weather. 

Check this site and view a map of the area.

Update for 2025 coming soon!

Once the new cadets complete the March Back, the last event of Cadet Basic Training, they begin approximately five days of reorganizing. This reorganization period is for the entire Corps of Cadets. 

New cadets will move into their academic year companies, learn their new chain of command, meet their team leader (a yearling assigned to help set the new cadet/plebe up for success), receive their academic schedules, pick up books, pick up computers, attend briefings, attend drill practice, learn the locations of their classrooms, and more. 

This is a busy time for the Corps of Cadets. New cadets will receive their cell phones during this time (if they brought on R-Day) and may be able to make calls/send texts on a limited basis. They will have access to email, usually by midweek, in case they do not have a cell phone. 

During Reorganization Week, new cadets are escorted to all locations. Visiting is not permitted during Reorganization Week. 

Please talk to your cadet before making plans to visit West Point. There are duties, responsibilities, training, inspections, and parades that happen on weekends at West Point. 

However, if nothing is planned, please keep in mind cadets manage their downtime. There are opportunities to visit recreation facilities (bowling alley, movies, ski slope, and golf course). They may visit with their sponsor families, walk to Highland Falls, use the gym/work out, etc. 

It is always best to speak with your cadet to ensure they will be on post and have time to visit with you or others who may be in the area.

During the academic year, cadets approved for a pass to depart for the weekend will leave after their last class or duty on Friday or other designated day and return in time for an accountability formation on Sunday (or Monday if it's a long/holiday weekend.) 

Typically cadets are released for Thanksgiving after their last class. This year, classes will end on Nov. 26. Cadets will depart for Thanksgiving break after their last class or duty and return on Dec. 1. 

For leave at the end of the semester, the cadets will know their TEE (Term End Exam) schedule by early October. Remind them to keep checking! Once their schedules are finalized, please allow plenty of time between the end of their exam period for departure as they must clear their rooms, complete duties, etc.

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Ring Weekend

The Ring Ceremony on the Plain (the parade field) will begin at approximately 4:50 p.m. Friday, Aug. 23.

Parents and guests, please park in the Buffalo Soldier Field (BSF) lot just inside Thayer Gate. 

Buses will be available from 2-7:30 p.m. to shuttle parents and guests to and from the ceremony at the Plain. Pickup is at the bus shelter. Dropoff at the Plains is at the pull-out point on Trophy Point. 

Please be in the bleachers at the Plain by 4:30 p.m. The area directly in front of the bleachers is where cadets will stand for the ceremony. 

First and Second regiments will enter from the middle of the Plain; Third and Fourth will enter from the right side. 

Appropriate attire is summer/business casual: sundresses, capris, skirts, walking shorts for ladies; shorts, casual pants, polo shirts, etc., for men. Be comfortable and wear comfortable shoes.

Please join us for the 8th Annual Ring Run 5K at 8 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 24. To register for family members and guests, please use the following link at 
Welcome (army.mil). 

There is no cost for cadets to participate. Call the Fitness Center to register cadets: (845) 938-6490. 

It promises to be a fun event!

YES, there is a reception at 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 24, at Eisenhower Hall. Buses will be available at 2 p.m. from the Buffalo Soldier Field parking lot. Additionally, parking is available in Clinton Lot with a short walk to Ike Hall. 

A bus stop will be added at approximately 3:50 p.m. at Ike Hall for guests attending the reception. The stops will become Buffalo Soldier Field, Ike Hall, and Clinton Lot (drop off for the banquet) until 5:50 p.m. 

The shuttle will pause until 7:15 p.m. The shuttle will continue to run until 8:30 p.m. from the Clinton Lot area to the Buffalo Soldier Field parking lot. 

Handicapped buses will be available to the north area behind the cadet mess for the banquet.

On Saturday, Aug. 24, the banquet will take place at the cadet mess in Washington Hall. All guests (cadet + 3 guests) attending the banquet should be in place behind their chairs in the cadet mess no later than 5:50 p.m. 

This is a formal event. Suggested attire is formal: full-length dress for the ladies, and dark business suit or tuxedo (or military equivalent).

Cadets are responsible for signing up/paying for guests.

Please refrain from entering the cadet area. Parents and guests are not allowed into the barracks or buildings in the Cadet Restricted Area. 

Thank you for your support.

Buses will run from Buffalo Soldier Field to the Superintendent's Review Box near the Plain. Guests will follow the sidewalk to the apron in front of the cadet mess. (Comfortable shoes are a good idea.) 

Buses will run beginning at 3 p.m. (for the reception at Ike Hall) and continue to run from BSF, transporting parents and guests to the drop-off for the cadet mess.

Buses will continue to run until 8:30 p.m. 

All visitors to West Point for these events should review security information posted at this link.

  • The West Point Parents Club of MDDCVA will be selling Class Crest Afghans (throws). Proceeds from the sale will be donated to the class for its gift fund.
  • The West Point Parents Club of New Jersey will be in the grassy area behind the bleachers on Friday selling coins with the class crest. Proceeds from the sale will be donated to the class for its gift fund.
  • The West Point Parents Club of Southeast Pennsylvania will be in the grassy area behind the bleachers on Friday to distribute pre-purchased tote bags.

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Graduation 2025

West Point Gate Access:

Access Requirements:
Everyone must have an ID and a pass to enter West Point.  All vehicles need to show electronic or paper tickets, IDs, and pass to access West Point during Graduation Week. There will be increased security so be prepared and arrive well in advance at the event.

Pass Collection:
One person (including the cadet) can collect passes for your group starting May 20th at the Visitor Control Center located outside of Thayer Gate. If the cadet collects the passes, they must be able to deliver them outside the gate. The Visitor Control Center will not rewrite passes. 

Foreign Nationals must present their VISA/Passport and pick up their passes in person.

Exceptions:

  • CAC (Common Access Card) holders do not need a visitor pass and may escort their visitors onto post.
  • LAC (Local Area Credential) holders, also known as 4-year parent ID holders, do not need a visitor pass but cannot escort others; they may only escort themselves.

Authorized guests with appropriate graduation ceremony tickets can enter the installation at 6 a.m.; Everyone 18+ must have an ID to enter West Point. Graduation guests are asked to use Stony Lonesome and Thayer Gates.

Stony Lonesome and Thayer gates are open 24/7. Washington Gate will be open from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. Graduation guests are encouraged to arrive on the installation starting from 6 a.m.

Stadium Admission – Graduation Ceremony
Each graduating cadet will receive 10 digital tickets for family and guests. A ticket is required for stadium admission.

Additional Ticket Requests:
Please note: Additional tickets are for general public seating and will not be located near the 10 reserved seats.

  • General Public & Additional Tickets | Visitors Center
    Dates & Times:
    • May 20–23: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
    • May 24: 6:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
      Guests should first confirm with their cadet whether tickets have already been provided before requesting additional tickets here.

Babies and Tickets:

  • Infants on laps: No ticket needed.
  • Infants in carriers: Please consider reserving a ticket to account for the extra space.
  • Children age 2 and older: Ticket required.
  • Strollers: Allowed in the stadium, but not in bleacher areas.

Event-Specific Ticket Allocations:

  • Receptions: Cadet + 10 guests
  • Convocation Dinner: Cadet + 2 guests
  • Awards Ceremony: No guest limit
  • Graduation Banquet: Cadet + 3 guests

For those unable to attend graduation, the ceremony will be available via live stream on YouTube and DVIDS beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 24.

ADA Ticket Requests & Accessibility Information – Graduation Ceremony

To ensure all guests can fully enjoy Graduation Day, cadets were asked to submit the number of guests requiring ADA accommodations through CIS. This process helps us plan appropriately for those needing wheelchair-accessible seating or other accommodations.

ADA Ticket Details:

  • Each approved ADA guest will receive two tickets: one for themselves and one for an accompanying guest.
  • These tickets grant access to a designated alternate viewing location at Michie Stadium, designed for accessible comfort. (Please note that space is limited indoors.
  • The deadline to submit ADA accommodation requests has passed.
    If additional needs arise, cadets must submit any remaining requests as soon as possible.

ADA Guest Entry & Parking:

  • All guests with an ADA ticket or a valid handicap plate/placard must enter through Stony Lonesome Gate only.
  • From there, you will be directed to ADA-designated parking, with shuttle transportation provided to Michie Stadium.

     

If you're traveling with someone who requires a transport chair, we recommend bringing one along if possible. Alternatively, you can contact a local medical equipment provider in the local area to arrange for a wheelchair pickup or delivery.

Even for those who can walk but may experience fatigue or difficulty over long distances, having a wheelchair on hand can be a great help—there’s often a lot of walking involved, and comfort is key to enjoying the events.

To help with traffic flow and ensure a smooth experience for all, guests are encouraged to park in designated areas and use the shuttle bus service provided.

  • General Guest Parking:
    Parking is available at Buffalo Soldier Field, K Lot, South Dock and H Lot with shuttle buses transporting guests to the stadium area.
  • Handicapped Parking:
    Guests with authorized handicapped placards and license plates can park in F Lot and Clinton Lot.
  • Cart Service:
    Cart service will be available on-site to assist guests who need help getting to and from the ceremony area.
  • Important Reminder:
    There is no parking in the cadet area until after the ceremony concludes.

Wednesday, May 21 | 5:30 – 6:45 p.m.
Hosted at each respective chapel

Each chapel will hold a baccalaureate service to honor and celebrate members of the graduating class. These meaningful services offer a moment of reflection, gratitude, and blessing during Graduation Week.
 

Parking will be available at each chapel for attending guests.

The 2025 Constitution Island tours are canceled due to weather

Guests will have an opportunity to visit Constitution Island, located east of West Point in the Hudson River. They will step off the boat at the Constitution Island dock and be greeted by a guide who will share the island's history. Travel time to the island is approximately 15 minutes. 

The crew will share information on the history and geography of the river while in transit. There are short hikes/walks once you are on the island: one is approximately 10-15 minutes; the other is approximately 25 minutes. Appropriate walking shoes are a must! It is recommended guests bring water bottles. 

Please park near the West Point Train Station at the bottom of Williams Road or along the river in the South Dock area. Tour capacity is 35 passengers. Reservations are not accepted. First come, first served – groups will be managed at the dock. All passengers must disembark upon arrival at Constitution Island.

Please know this experience is not handicapped accessible. 

Class of ’63 Lounge
3rd Level, Eisenhower Hall

For guests with health or mobility challenges, or for those who prefer to view the ceremony indoors, an alternate location will be available.  The graduation ceremony will be livestreamed in this comfortable, accessible space.
No ticket is required to access this location.

Directions & Access Instructions:

  • Enter West Point through Washington Gate
  • Continue down Washington Road
  • Bear left at the West Point Cemetery south entrance
  • Follow Ruger Road to Eisenhower Hall
  • Drop-off point is the Eisenhower Hall ticket office tunnel entrance

Guests may be dropped off here before parking.

FREE EVENT for Spouses to Be! 
RSVP by May 16!

71st Annual Daughters of the U.S. Army (DUSA) Spouses to Be Coffee 
10 a.m.-noon Thursday, May 22, 2025
Washington Ballroom, Thayer Hotel 
West Point, NY

Please join us for light refreshments, a chance to meet other new Army "spouses-to-be," and hear from an incredible guest speaker about the exciting journey of being an Army spouse. You will have an opportunity to meet Army spouses stationed at your duty station and connect with seasoned spouses who can answer your questions. 

We invite you to bring up to two guests (mom, MIL, SIL, MOH, fiancé, etc.).
All fiancés (plus 2 guests) of the graduating class are welcome. 

Wednesday, May 21 & Thursday, May 22
10:20 a.m. – 11:50 a.m.

Thirteen academic departments will host award ceremonies to recognize outstanding achievements among the graduating cadets.

Attendance:
These ceremonies are open to family and guests of cadets who are receiving awards.

Locations & Times:
Cadets being honored will receive the specific time and location details from their departments. A complete schedule will be shared publicly once available.

We look forward to celebrating these academic accomplishments with you!

This distinguished event honors select members of the graduating class as they are recognized by the Superintendent, Academy leadership, and key donors for their exceptional achievements.

Attendance:

  • Not all cadets will attend—only those receiving awards.
  • There is no limit on the number of guests who may attend the ceremony itself.

Reception & Dinner (Prior to the Ceremony):

  • Each invited cadet may bring 2 guests to the reception and dinner.
  • Cadets who are selected to attend will receive a formal invitation with full details.

We look forward to celebrating the accomplishments of these outstanding cadets with you.

Friday, May 23 – 11:00 a.m. -The Plain, West Point

No tickets are required for this event.

This is a must-see tradition as the graduating class is honored in a formal pass-in-review by the rest of the Corps. It’s a powerful moment as the Class of [Year] symbolically departs the Corps of Cadets.

? The West Point Band will provide music, and a narrator will explain the customs and significance throughout the parade. The event will last approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Seating & Accessibility Info:

  • Standing Room is available along the fence line near Doubleday Field and Thayer Statue.
  • Chairs are welcome in these areas for guest comfort.
  • Guests using wheelchairs will find excellent views along the fence lines.
  • Please accommodate guests with mobility challenges whenever possible.
  • ⚠️ Do not sit in the areas directly to the right and left of the Superintendent’s Review Box. These are reserved for TAC teams and designated guests. If space is available, these areas may open just before the parade begins.

Friday, May 23 – 6:00 p.m. - Washington Hall

This formal event is reserved for graduating cadets and three guests (Cadet +3). The banquet will begin promptly at 6:00 p.m. Please arrive on time and be seated before the program begins.

Shuttle Transportation:
At the conclusion of the banquet, please be patient as shuttle buses circulate throughout West Point, transporting guests back to their vehicles and designated parking areas.

Attire for the Banquet & Graduation Week Events:
Dress for the banquet is formal and respectful of the occasion.
?? For specific attire guidelines, please refer to the suggested attire provided by the Cadet Hostess at this link below. This document includes helpful recommendations for all Graduation Week events.

Legacy Studios will be present at graduation and will photograph the cadets as they receive their diplomas.

LEGACY STUDIOS

 

In the event that graduation must be moved indoors due to severe weather, the following venues will be utilized to accommodate the graduating class and their guests:

  • Eisenhower Hall Theater
    Primary indoor location for the graduating class and a limited number of family members.
  • Alternate Viewing Locations (Tentative):
    • Thayer Hall – Robinson Auditorium
    • Washington Hall (Cadet Mess)
    • Holleder Center (Tate Rink)
    • Mahan Hall Auditorium (pending confirmation)

? Live video of the ceremony will be streamed to all alternate locations.

? Please note: These locations are tentative and may be updated closer to Graduation Day. Final details will be communicated as soon as they are confirmed.

Following the graduation ceremony, new graduates are required to complete their clearing process. Once this is done, they will change into their Army Service Uniforms in preparation for their bar pinning or commissioning ceremonies.

These ceremonies are held at various locations around West Point and are organized by the graduates themselves. It's common for cadets to share the moment with friends, teammates, or company mates.

A respected instructor, mentor, or family member—who must be a commissioned officer (active or retired)—is typically invited to administer the oath. 

Please note: An American flag is required to be present at all commissioning ceremonies.

Graduation Day is an exciting and busy time, so it may be helpful to discuss the day’s schedule in advance with your cadet. This allows you to plan appropriately for family and guests attending the event.

After the ceremony, cadets will have responsibilities—such as completing their clearing process and preparing for their commissioning ceremonies—which may take some time.

Tips for Guests:

  • Consider planning a light picnic on the grounds or bringing snacks and drinks to enjoy while waiting.
  • Some families choose to return to their hotel to relax before the commissioning events begin.

A little preparation can go a long way in making this special day more comfortable and enjoyable for everyone.

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Plebe-Parent Weekend

The weather can range from very cold, freezing temps to spring-like conditions. Continue to check the weather forecast before departing for West Point. Always be prepared for a shower, rain, snow, or ice.

Shuttle buses will be available throughout, but a fair amount of walking is still required. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Additional shuttle bus information can be found in the PPW Information Guide. You will be encouraged to park in Buffalo Soldier Field, and other parking areas to be shared via a map and all are encouraged to take the shuttle bus, especially on Friday.

Business casual for most events. Dinner and dance on Saturday night require more formal attire: a long dress or party pantsuit; a tuxedo, dark suit, or military uniform as appropriate. Cadets will be in their full dress for the event.

Learn more about suggested attire. 

The schedule will be posted on the Parent Information page in late January/early February. Hard copies will also be available at the Parent Welcome/Information Center in Eisenhower Hall on Friday, March 14.

If you are planning to attend the banquet on Saturday, March 15, yes, your cadet must register his/her guests. 

Otherwise, all activities will be enjoyed on a first-come, first-served basis. Please check the schedule and discuss it with your cadets. They may have suggestions based on their experience and their schedule.  

Plan to arrive either Thursday evening or early Friday.

Please join us for an informal Parent Gathering at 7:30-9 p.m. Thursday, March 13, at The Thayer Hotel. This is an informal "pay as you go" event. 

The Parent Welcome Center in Eisenhower Hall will open at 8 a.m. Friday, March 14. The day's schedule includes tours of various buildings and informational presentations. 

Lt. Gen. Steven W. Gilland will formally welcome parents and guests at 2 p.m. Friday in the Eisenhower Hall Theater. 

Yes. Additional family members are welcome. However, cadets are allowed four seats for the banquet (one for themselves and three additional). They can sometimes find additional seats through their company. 

It is the cadet’s responsibility to procure additional seats. There is often a reference to “tickets” for the dinner. There are no actual “tickets” sold.

Many cadets will invite dates to attend the dinner and dance. This is typically a family discussion/decision.

West Point Club, Thayer Hotel, Subway, Lil’ Skeeters (West Point Bowling Center) and Burger King (located at the PX). Hours of operation will be available in the PPW schedule. Restaurants can also be found on Main Street in Highland Falls, ranging from sandwich shops to full-service restaurants.

Transportation may be available on Sunday, March 16, for plebes who require transportation to the major airports. Tickets are sold online at the West Point MWR link. For more information, please check the link. 

Activities and events may include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Remarks by the Superintendent, Lt. Gen. Steven W. Gilland
  • Tours of the uniform factory, Jefferson Hall Library, and Army Sports Hall of Fame
  • Academic open houses
  • Visit to the Simulation Center
  • Presentations by USCC staff
  • TAC Team open house
  • Opportunity to visit your cadet’s room in the barracks. 

The culminating event is a formal banquet and unveiling of the Class of 2028 crest in the cadet mess followed by receiving lines and a hop at Eisenhower Hall. 

(Please know some activities require an escort.) 

The Plebe-Parent Review is a parade with only plebes participating. 

The formation will consist of plebes from the 36 companies in platoon-size formations (4x8). The companies will march in order (Company A1-Company I4) led by the brigade staff. The color guard marches in between the 2nd and 3rd regiments. 

Parents/guests will observe from the edge of the apron in front of the Eisenhower and MacArthur Barracks.

(Tentative) The dinner starts at 5 p.m. All cadets and guests are expected to be behind their chairs by 4:45 p.m. Remember to bring bubble wrap or socks to wrap your souvenir wine glasses. 

Attendance is mandatory for all members of the Class of 2028 unless on an approved trip section or hospitalized. Suggested attire can be found on the Parent Information page – please look for Cadet Hostess – Formal Attire presentation.

Yes, guests will be invited to visit Ike Hall, go through receiving lines, and enjoy a hop (dance). Music for the hop is provided by the West Point Benny Haven's Band.

The schedule is designed to give you options (or choices) of various activities to enjoy while attending Plebe-Parent Weekend. Please use the information as a planning guide and do not feel you have to attend EVERYTHING! Discuss with your cadet as they may have suggestions on what to see based on their experience to this point.

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