The West Point Board of Visitors recently concluded its latest meeting, with retired Lt. Gen. Mike Flynn standing out as the sole advocate for a renewed focus on warfighting at the academy. This call has raised concerns regarding board attendance and oversight.
According to Restoration News, the July meeting was perceived as lacking in engagement from board members, with Flynn being the only voice urging a shift back to warfighting priorities over social or political agendas. Flynn reportedly said, “If you want to learn about social justice, go to the University of Rhode Island!”
The report also noted sparse attendance at the meeting. Only Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) attended from the Senate, while Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Representative Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) were absent. This absence has led to criticism that board members are not fulfilling their statutory oversight roles.
Federal statute requires that the Board of Visitors conduct independent inquiries into various aspects of the academy, including morale, discipline, curriculum, facilities, and fiscal affairs. Restoration News emphasized that the lack of attendance and engagement by congressional and senatorial appointees represents a failure to meet these legally mandated responsibilities.
Under U.S. law (10 U.S.C. § 7455 and the Federal Advisory Committee Act), the West Point Board of Visitors is obligated to meet multiple times annually, provide independent advice on curriculum and other issues, and submit written reports to Congress and the President within 60 days of their visits. These duties are essential for ensuring accountability and oversight of the academy’s leadership.