Applying students (and current cadets) who have had a child (maternity or paternity) must provide a court order stating they have NO parental rights to the child whatsoever. This is different from just giving family members a power of attorney or temporary custody. The court order must indicate total and complete relinquishment of parental rights. Parental rights must be given to someone while you are a cadet for several reasons. The rationale includes, but is not limited to, all cadets are required to live in the dorms all four years; your stipend is not enough to provide for the needs of a child (it is plenty to cover your needs); and the cadet lifestyle is a demanding one and your attention will need to be focused on your task at hand, not on your child. You may also not have a spouse while at the U.S. Air Force Academy.