I was never a cadet and do not claim to know the ins and outs of being a cadet. I have however learned quite a bit about being a supportive parent of a cadet. Since my son’s sophomore year at The Citadel I have volunteered my time to help new parents learn the odd terms and culture at The Citadel. At first I was a volunteer with the Citadel Family Association and since his graduation I have maintained this blog site and administered Facebook groups for new parents. Since the rules do change slightly from year to year I’ve developed a good relationship with various officials on campus to make sure what appears on this blog or on the Facebook groups I moderate is accurate and up to date.
Last month the Georgia Citadel Parents Group hosted a parent orientation meeting. In the Atlanta area these events have been happening in the early summer for over ten years. As the questions about preparing for knob year came pouring in from the parents of the class of 2020 I realized that I’ve become an expert on some very odd areas.
You might be a parent of a Citadel Cadet if. . . .
- You know Bates is not just the name of the Downton Abbey Valet.
- You become an expert in plain toe black Oxford shoes, or low quarters, and where to find them.
- You are disappointed to learn the new Bostonian Kinnon style shoe does not meet regulations (stitching on the heel), but encouraged to know the Florsheim Lexington style does.
- You know what deep lug soles are on combat boots.
- You know which store in your area carries the plastic bins needed in the required sizes.
- The staff at your local post office know your name, your cadets name, and what their favorite snacks are.
- You know where to find the cheapest white flat sheets.
- You know a change in the white PT sock requirement from crew length to ankle length socks sets off a major shock wave. (Yes, all cadets must wear ankle length white socks for unit PT this academic year.)
- You find the best and easiest way to label clothing.
- You know what shirt stays are used for.
- You develop a hatred for T-pins.
- You wish your cadet preferred the sheet stays over T-pins for securing their sheets.
- You know why the cadets want fine grade sandpaper.
- You have a supply of your cadets preferred brand of T-shirts, socks, and underwear on hand.
- You know the best way to prevent blisters.
- You know the best way to send a care package to a knob.
- You know what the cadets use the sink for in their room. (I wish I didn’t know this one)
Added July 11:
