His health improved that semester, and while it wasn't his best semester academically, Cadet Richards excelled in the military subjects of the academy's curriculum, allowing him to leave West Point in good standing and be readmitted after his mission. Since returning, Cadet Richards served as a squad leader during this past summer for cadet basic training and taught new cadets how to survive the rigors of West Point. Returned missionaries are not obligated to return to the academy, but if they choose to re-apply and are accepted, they are subject to the same strenuous acceptance process they endured as incoming freshmen. Ten missionaries returned to the academy this summer, and seven cadets have entered the Missionary Training Center in Provo, Utah. While missions have strengthened the returning cadets, the academy has also strengthened the outgoing missionaries.
West Point teaches a lot about honor and sacrifice.
On my mission, I learned that sacrifice is very important. Cadet O'Loughlin learned that missionary work continued after returning to the academy where LDS cadets are well-known for their standards and their ability to study without the aid of stimulants like coffee. Cadets learn to be courteous, work hard and exercise self-discipline from their first day at West Point. Missionaries learn to serve and care for others in a spiritual way. That combination of experience makes cadets better officers.