LOCATION-
Located in the scenic Hudson River valley, only 50 miles from New York City, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point is a four-year academic institution, a nationally-renowned historic site. The undergraduates, known as Cadets, are commissioned as officers in the US Army upon graduation. You can watch them on parade or competing as intercollegiate athletes in a wide range of sports events. As a military installation, West Point is a small, self-contained city. The cost of living is high in this area.
HISTORY
West Point's role in our nation's history dates back to the Revolutionary War, when both sides realized the strategic importance of the commanding plateau on the west bank of the Hudson River. General George Washington considered West Point to be the most important strategic position in America. Washington personally selected Thaddeus Kosciuszko, one of the heroes of Saratoga, to design the fortifications for West Point in l778, and Washington transferred his headquarters to West Point in l779. Continental soldiers built forts, batteries and redoubts and extended a l50-ton iron chain across the Hudson to control river traffic. Fortress West Point was never captured by the British, despite Benedict Arnold's treason. West Point is the oldest continuously occupied military post in America.
MISSION
The purpose of the United States Military Academy is "to provide the Nation with leaders of character who serve the common defense." In order to achieve its purpose, the mission of the United States Military Academy is "To educate, train, and inspire the Corps of Cadets so that each graduate is a commissioned leader of character committed to the values of Duty, Honor, Country; professional growth throughout a career as an officer in the United States Army; and a lifetime of selfless service to the nation."
POPULATION SERVED
The United States Military Academy at West Point graduates more than 900 new officers annually, which represents approximately 25 percent of 2nd lieutenants required by the Army each year. The student body numbers 4,072. In addition to the Corps of Cadets, West Point is home to 1324 active duty Soldiers and 2797 family members. Supporting the mission of the Academy is a civilian workforce of 3090 personnel.
SPONSORSHIP
All newcomers should have a sponsor from their gaining unit/department prior to arriving at West Point. If a sponsor has not been assigned, one may requested by filling out a DA Form 5434 at the current unit. A sponsor will be assigned within three days and the Soldier will receive a welcome packet with post information and instructions on in-processing to his/her new unit. A Soldier's sponsor may arrange to meet with him/her upon arrival. If this is not possible, the sponsor will instruct the Soldier to begin in-processing at the Adjutant General's office in Building 622, Swift Road. The AG can be reached at (845)938-3402. Soldiers may use the address on their orders or the address of the unit as a temporary mailing address for mail enroute.
The Relocation Readiness Program at Army Community Service offers a sponsorship training program for those who are interested in becoming a sponsor.
TEMPORARY QUARTERS
During peak transition months (May through September), the wait for housing can be prolonged. Soldier's who are awaiting housing on Wet Point may obtain temporary quarter's at either the Army Lodging, Five Star Inn, or many of the local motels/hotels. It is highly recommended that Soldier's wishing to stay at the post operated Five Star Inn call up to 90 days in advance to make reservations. Soldier's can only make reservations for a 30 day stay at the Five Star Inn. However, extensions may be possible. Please contact the Five Star Inn at (845) 938-6816 for more information regarding temporary housing.
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE
The Relocation Readiness Program at West Point Army Community Service, 622 Swift Road, is here to assist Soldiers and their families with many different aspects of moving to a new community. Services available to newcomers are: Welcome Packets with local and post maps/phone books, a community fair, information regarding recreational activities on and off post, newcomer orientations, and tours of the post. We have an extensive loan with kitchen appliances, blow up mattresses, baby play pens, etc Please call (845)938-5654/3487 for more information.