Battle Monument, USMA, West Point, New York. Photo copyright (c) Jim Doty, Jr.

West Point just oozes history and tradition. A poster in the history department says “Much of the history we teach was made by those we taught.” Statues of George Patton, Dwight Eisenhower, Douglas MacArthur and other graduates surround “The Plain” just outside the cadet barracks. Monuments, statues, plaques, and inscribed benches are reminders of the virtues the academy seeks to instill in its graduates. “Duty, Honor, Country” are not just words carved in stone, but ideals that will, hopefully, become part of the cadet’s lives. The short date span on some of the markers in the cemetery are reminders of the high cost some of the graduates have paid to defend and preserve the freedoms we cherish as a country.

“The Plain”, Cadet Barracks, and Cadet Chapel (on the hill), USMA, West Point, New York.
Photo copyright (c) Jim Doty, Jr.

West Point was established by George Washington during the American Revolution. It is the oldest, continuously occupied military post in the United States. A bend in the Hudson River made the location an ideal strategic place to stop British ships from sailing farther north and prevent British troops from splitting the colonies in half. Early leaders in our country realized the need for well trained Army officers so the United States Military Academy was established at West Point in 1802.

The Hudson River from Trophy Point, West Point, NY. Photo copyright (c) Jim Doty, Jr.

While some cadet areas and military training grounds are off limits to the public, much of West Point can be visited. One of the best ways to visit is to go through the Visitors Center and take one of the bus tours that are offered to the public. This will give you a good feel for the history of West Point and the layout of the grounds. Then you can wander the public areas on your own. The museum is also worth a look.

Statue of Colonel Sylvanus Thayer, USMA, West Point, New York. Photo copyright (c) Jim Doty, Jr.

The U.S. Military Academy is often a gray place in the winter with gray skys, gray stone buildings, and “cadet gray” uniforms. In spring, summer, and fall it is a nice place to visit. With the right weather and light it can be beautiful. This morning near Trophy Point there were eight artists working in charcoal, oils, and pastels. Bring a camera or your art supplies.

Located about 60 miles north of New York City, West Point is well worth a visit, especially if you are interested in history and historical places.

You can learn more about West Point, including a brief history and visitor’s information, at the USMA web site.

Revolutionary War Canon, Trophy Point, West Point, New York. Photo copyright (c) Jim Doty, Jr.