Military Academy Barred From H.S. Awards Ceremony

BOSTON -- Two local high school students have earned scholarships to West Point, but when it comes to awards night at their school the military is not invited.

Some said it's a big disservice to those who are ready to serve their country.

Newscenter Five's Sean Kelly reported that the principal of King Phillip Regional High School in Wrentham, Mass., told the U.S. Army it would not be welcome at a scholarship banquet that will be held to honor two graduates who have received scholarships to West Point Military Academy.

The town has many memorials to military who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their country, but some say that kind of patriotism and respect is not reflected at the high school.

"I was disappointed because I thought everyone should really be educated on what West Point is about and how we're going to serve our country," student Jeff Chin said.

"It is a little bit of a disappointment to not have this kind of a special thing for Jeff and I not go on because we've been expecting it," Will Small said.

It is a West Point tradition to have Army officers representing the elite military school award incoming students their scholarships at their own high school banquets. But King Phillip has its own rules that bar such participation.

"I think they are being a little protective. I think they think if they let West Point or Annapolis in, then there will be recruiters that come next and they'll be trying to persuade these kids to join the military," Will's father, Alan, said.

Will Small said he's disappointed, but not bitter about his school's policy.

"They've done everything for me that's gotten me in there. They've provided the sports programs, the music programs, the academics that have taught me and gotten me the good SAT scores," Will Small said.

But they're not allowing his unique turn at being honored. His parents believe the policy of no college representatives at awards nights targets military academies.

"I better not see any private colleges or universities there Wednesday night. I'll be very disappointed," Alan Small said.

Neither the school principal or superintendent could be reached during the Memorial Day holiday for further comment.