Since the early 1800s the institution we call West Point has been producing military and civilian world leaders. Set along the Hudson River on a strategic location where America sought to expel its occupiers, every inch of the campus has a story to tell. Thousands have traversed this ground since then, thousands who have led and fought and some who have died defending our country. “Duty. Honor. Country,” are the rallying point of the people who serve here.
You’d think that we would encourage this amazing place to tell its own story through the vital purpose it serves, coupled with the history it enjoys. Instead, we’ve undercut these strong and important messages by affixing a spirit motto for mediocre college sports. “Go Army, Beat Navy” is is strewn throughout campus. The motto is inescapable. A visitor is challenged to learn about the history without the ambush of the athletic catch phrase.
The motto will slap you in the face as you pass through stone arches that previously defended the gates to the fighting position. “Beat Navy House” is the name of the distinguished visitor quarters, originally built in 1875. “Beat Navy Tunnel” provides a thoroughfare for cadets to range campus. The commanding general’s house (another historic location) enjoys large, semi-permanent plastic signs across it’s face reading the motto.
Competitive athletics are an important part of our military and national culture. Be proud of the team, the program and the athletes, but let’s remember why we have military academies. Let’s recognize the historic importance of the beautiful landscape.
Be careful not to distract from the purpose, intention and history of this nationally important landmark.
The public affairs lesson – sometimes the message is already there. Sometimes, you just have to let the message carry itself. Sometimes your organization’s intentions are so evident, you only have to give gentle recognition, a few nods to endorse it with your audiences. Sometimes you only have to not distract from it.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Gildardo Pelcastre
