Marriage for U.S. Military Academy Students: Annapolis Midshipmen and West Point Cadets

Can Annapolis Midshipmen and West Point Cadets be Married? Yes, Annapolis Midshipmen (U.S. Naval Academy) students and West Point Cadets (U.S. Military Academy) can get married. However, the process is not straightforward and is heavily regulated by the academies and the military.

Regulations and Policies

The decision to marry as a Midshipman or Cadet comes with several important considerations:

Timing and Eligibility

Many academies have restrictions on when students can marry. Typically, Midshipmen and Cadets must wait until after their first year and often until they are officially commissioned as officers. This timing is crucial to ensure that their military commitments are not affected.

Approval Process

Seeking approval to marry often involves submitting a request to their chain of command. This process ensures that the academy can manage the potential impacts of a marriage on the student's training and career.

Impact on Training and Deployment

Marriage can have a significant impact on training schedules and responsibilities. Students must consider how their military commitments might be altered, and this must be factored into their decision-making.

Post-Graduation Assignments and Deployments

After graduation, potential deployments and assignments could further impact a married student's life. It is essential for students to plan for these possibilities in advance.

Special Notes and Contradictions

It is important to note that there are cases where marriage is strictly prohibited or can result in severe consequences:

No Marriage Allowed Without Approval

Many academies have a strict policy that allows Midshipmen and Cadets to be married only with explicit approval and compliance with the academy's guidelines. Any marriage that takes place without this approval can result in serious penalties, including dismissal.

ROTC Cadets and Midshipmen Allowed to Marry

Notably, Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) cadets and midshipmen are allowed to be married, provided they follow the regulations set by their respective colleges. This leniency reflects a different approach to marriage for students who are already in a non-military campus setting.

Severe Consequences for Secret Marriages

There are instances where students have tried to get married secretly, but these marriages are often discovered. Failing to disclose a marriage can result in severe penalties, including a violation of the academy's honor code. Additionally, students risk losing their scholarships and being forced to complete college as enlisted personnel.

For instance, during the early 1970s, an honor code violation was triggered when a student checked the 'single' block on a form and was subsequently exposed, leading to his dismissal and the recovery of his scholarship costs.

Conclusion

Marriage for Annapolis Midshipmen and West Point Cadets is a complex issue that involves numerous regulations and restrictions. While it is possible to get married, students must ensure they follow the appropriate procedures and consider the potential impacts on their military careers. As always, seeking guidance from their respective academies is paramount in navigating this process.