Physical Examination for Entrance to West Point.

Abstract

Washington, D. C., May 29, 1907. To the Editor: —Boards of medical officers for the physical examination of candidates for admission to West Point are appointed each year by the Secretary of War at various military posts, scattered over the country, and so situated as to be nearest the homes of the respective candidates. These boards consist of one or more medical officers of experience in the service and with practical knowledge of the requirements for officers of the Army. When candidates are rejected by the boards they are often taken at once by parents or friends to more or less prominent civilian practitioners, usually specialists, and it frequently happens that these physicians give certificates flatly contradicting the findings of the boards of medical officers of the Army. While there is no question of the integrity and honesty of purpose of these civilian practitioners, it does not seem quite fair