West Point Parents Club of North Carolina

Supporting the protectors of our freedom

Welcome North Carolina Parents!

Join us as we support the four-year wonderful journey of our sons’ and daughters’ commitment to West Point and the Nation.

The West Point Parents Club of North Carolina is divided into seven platoons (zones), this allows for local meetings that are “closer to home.” The platoons are determined by the county you live in. If a different platoon is more convenient for you, then let us know, and we’ll send your information to the platoon leaders for the platoon you would prefer to join. We invite you to join our club and encourage all of you to do so. It is important that West Point knows that we are working at the local level to support the academy and our cadets.

Please keep all of our graduates and soldiers in your thoughts and prayers.

Our Mission

The West Point Parents Club of North Carolina is dedicated to serving and assisting its members by offering comprehensive information, valuable resources, and personalized support. Acknowledging that the journey through the United States Military Academy (USMA) and beyond is a unique experience for both parents and their cadets, the club strives to cater to their individual needs and challenges.

For Country We Commit, Class of 2026

Graduation for the Class of 2026

As the United States Military Academy’s Class of 2026 approaches graduation, we pause to recognize the extraordinary magnitude of this moment – for the cadets, their families, and all who have supported them along the way. This is far more than a ceremony; it is the culmination of years defined by unwavering commitment, resilience, and purpose.

From R Day to their final days on the Plain, these young men and women have faced and overcome countless challenges. They have endured rigorous academic demands, intense military training, physical trials, and the personal sacrifices that come with answering a call to serve something greater than themselves. Along the way, they have celebrated milestones, learned hard lessons, built lifelong bonds, and developed the character and leadership that define a West Point graduate.

Through it all, they have been shaped into leaders of consequence – individuals prepared not only to meet adversity, but to lead others through it. Now, as they take the next step, they will join the ranks of the United States Army, entrusted with leading our nation’s sons and daughters. They go forward ready to guide, inspire, and protect – grounded in the values of Duty, Honor, Country that have been instilled in them every step of the way.

This moment should fill us all with immense pride and a deep sense of reassurance. The Class of 2026 represents the very best of our nation – men and women of integrity, courage, and selfless service – who will stand at the helm of one of the finest militaries in our history.

To the families, whose steadfast support made this journey possible, we share in your pride and gratitude. Your sacrifices are woven into this achievement.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026 and their parents. For Country We Commit!

Classes

Plebe

Definition: A member of the lowest class of Roman society. Alternate: A trainee or freshman at the United States Military Academy. Plebes learn a vital military quality – how to follow their leaders. They are also learning organizational skills as a by-product of their 4th class duties and heavy academic loads.

Yuk

Definition: A sophomore and Cadet Corporal. Happy they aren’t Plebes. Unhappy they don’t rank much higher than Plebes. Alternately known as Yearlings by Old Grads. Yuks are responsible for coaching the Plebes in their company and helping them learn the ropes of being a cadet. 

Cow

Definition: A junior and now a true upperclassman. Cows hold the rank of Cadet Sergeant. They “affirm” their intention to remain at and graduate from USMA with a formal “Affirmation” in late August. In addition to focusing on their academic major, they are the backbone of the Corps supporting their Firstie leadership. 

Firstie

Definition: A senior. Firsties hold the ranks of Cadet Lieutenant and Captain and lead the Corps of Cadets in the top leadership positions. Firsties are generally focused on passing all of their courses and graduating to be 2LTs in the “Big Army.” During Firstie year they will select their future Army branch and first post.

2025 - 2026 USMA Calendar

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