[Seahawk]

Interesting topic, one I have thought about quite a bit. While military service runs deep in both sides of my parents families, there was never any pressure from them for me to seek a commission. My mother was, in fact, not pleased with my choice of becoming a naval aviator given the other opportunities I had.

In my mind, this is not a black and white issue: So much depends on the mindset of the person wishing to join, their motivation and sincerity for wanting to serve. My son is 11 and can't wait to become a Marine Corps pilot (many of my friends are)...but he is 11 so I adopt a very neutral stance. Now, if he comes to me during college and asks me my opinion concerning the Corp and aviation, and his reasons for doing so are not based on peer or preceived famly pressure, I will tell him I fully and proudly endorse his decision.

As a counter to those who would ask their children not to serve, there is a culture in every branch of the service that actively encourages their sons to follow in dad's footsteps.

I have been asked by the eldest son of a very good friend of mine to interview him for a slot at the Naval Academy in Annapolis. The interview is tomorrow and must, according to the guidelines, be video tapped.

I bring this up not because Taylor is an unbelievably great young man, he is, but because all of the interview guidelines I was given.

The first series of questions are very telling: They request that the interviewer ask questions solely based on the candidates reason for seeking an appointment...that they are sincere and have not been pressured in any way. The video tape is key because the tape is reviewed to see if body language, apperance or attitude reflects being pressured to attend the academy.

Lastly, and my only advice, if you discourage service in the armed forces, please don't disparage those who are serving or wish to. I work with some richly talented and wonderful folks every day.