by Hamilton Grey ShelferInstructions: Personal Essay
for the United States Air Force Academy: The Academy's Honor Code states, "We will not lie, steal, or cheat nor tolerate among us anyone who does." Discuss your ability to adopt the Honor Code as a way of
life.
Since my most important objectives in life are growing in my relationship with God and becoming a respected man of irrefutable integrity, I find that my lifestyle complements the moral expectations and
responsibilities required of cadets attending the United States Air Force Academy. My parents have instructed me in principles that closely parallel the Academy's Honor Code, and I have chosen to integrate those into
all aspects of my lifestyle. Without a doubt, I will not experience any difficulty adopting the Honor Code as a way of life for I currently practice this and will continue to do so. In fact, I am pleased that the
Academy requires moral excellence of "tomorrow's Air Force leaders" for this is precisely the type of leader I desire to become.
The basic morals and principles, such as contained in the Honor Code, are
being disregarded and shunned in overwhelming numbers by our country. An especially visible example is today's political arena. A large percentage of the American public considers politicians and elected officials to be
corrupt and selfish. Politicians spurred on by greed become dishonest to escape a potentially embarrassing situation, to win an election, or to take advantage of an unsuspecting constituent. As a result of these
publicized events, politicians everywhere have acquired a poor reputation and an even worse public image. By no means am I saying that this is characteristic of all politicians. However, as top government officials and
representatives of our nation, politicians, elected officials, and leaders should set a moral example. In order to restore their reputations and rectify any past dishonorable actions, it would behoove all politicians to
live a lifestyle that is consistent with the United States Air Force Academy Honor Code. Then, as they become men and women of character, they will earn and receive the respect of the American people.
I sincerely
believe that our country would be further strengthened if every one of her citizens would propose in their individual hearts to embrace the standards reflected in the Air Force Honor Code. Indeed, if the lives of our
leaders and our citizens exemplified such character, the rest of the world would emulate our example, and we would be better equipped to live in peace and harmony with each other.
