FourthClass Cadets
The fourthclass cadets are the first year students. In the Academy, they are traditionally called "plebes" and are the equivalent of the college freshmen in civilian universities. The first day of plebehood starts with the Reception Ceremonies on April 1 of each year.
Then, they undergo an eight week summer training or "beast barracks" during which time they are indoctrinated with the military and cadet systems of training. During this period, the plebes form the New Cadet Battalion and their training is handled by the tactical officers and upperclass cadets forming the "Plebe Detail."
After the beast barracks, the plebes are formally accepted into the ranks of the Cadet Corps in another ceremoney called Incorporation which is held during the last week of May.
