West Point is steeped in rich traditions—including the uniforms. The gray revolutionary frock coats are my favorite; they weigh several pounds and are made of fine wool (but not a dart in them, they’re stretched to go around the elbows and over the chest) and ornamented with brass buttons.
It would be easier to get Abe to sleep in a nightgown than to get him to wear his frock coat without orders; hence, I have never seen him in it until this weekend. And then, I not only saw him, I saw 4,000 other West Point cadets march on the football field in perfect unison wearing their frock coats. The sight inspired even the most ardent Navy fan as the mink-coated, diamond-studded woman told Calvin, “I’m a Navy fan through and through, but no one marches like a West Point cadet.” She’s right; those cadets take pride in their precision, rhythm and stature. They don’t even smile for the President of the United States when they are in formation. I found great JOY in watching every single soldier march in their seemingly JOYless parade of the long grey coats.
What has brought you JOY in the last day or two?
14 comments:
I am a sucker for uniforms. I love them. And although your boy may not want to hear this since his frock coat was from the Revolutionary style, but I have to say, I love the British Red Coats. So much history in that uniform.
That last picture was awe inspiring. Precision!
Glad you're back.
What an amazing sight that must have been. Uniformed in a outfit and in style. Love the picture.
That picture is fabulous. I can't imagine watching that many uniformed soldiers marching. How fun.
Seeing my mother smile and hearing her laugh!
Oh Jane, I love it that you can see such an awe inspiring sight, and to be "well pleased" that you son is a part of it!
The pride in America! Wow!
a mighty joyful joyless sight!
wow - that last photo took my breath away!!
you always look so joyful when you are visiting your cadet.
Love the photos!
It must be surreal to watch your son be a part of something like this.
My thoughts are the same as others-- wow! That is some discipline.
That's JOY for sure!
Love the pictures!
What a great post. I love it!
Oh my. Did you cry? I would have been bawling all over the place. Such a wonderful sight.
Sounds like a wonderful trip. I love precision---do you think ABE can help out my team?
I would love to see one of those coats up close- no darts eh? I love the look!
He looks so handsome, you look so joyful!
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