“The Road Less Traveled”: Honor Rehabilitation At West Point

On August 27, 2016, Cadet Donovan Franklin departed post without a pass to visit a friend from home, taking privileges that were not granted to him. While doing so, he also committed an honor violation. As he was getting ready to go out for the night, he put his flight bag on top of his bed and threw his “green girl” (Cadet comforter) on top to make it appear as though he was sleeping. He did not make it back in time for taps that night, and was later approached for clarification, resulting in an Honor Board. Following the honor board, he was granted discretion by the Superintendent, and entered into SLDP-H, the Special Leader Development Program for Honor. He is currently completing the rehabilitation process. In this video Cadet Franklin talks not only about his experience in the honor process, but also about his family, and what honor means to him. Cadet Franklin was in the middle of SLDP-H when this video was made, and used this as an opportunity to share his thoughts about how the honor process has shaped him. Since his violation, Cadet Franklin has dedicated himself to developing his character, and helping others learn from his mistake.