What Abides: West Point In Afterthought

What abides over the sixty years since President John F. Kennedy spoke at my graduation from West Point. This is where What Abides begins. Days spent at West Point stand clearly in my mind. I can envision my daily life as a cadet: a bed made taut as a trampoline, spit-shined shoes, and a sworn oath to absolute honesty. No lying, no cheating, no stealing, no locks, no keys.

We woke in the early morning to bugles and drums. Another day in which to excel. Heavy academics and tough physical trai...