I wish you the best of luck with getting into West Point. You're right about the benefits being insane -- benefits are insane for the military in general. Better start looking into basic marching if you get in... left face, right face, about face, standing at attention, standing at ease, etc. And learn to slightly bend your knees when standing at attention so you don't pass out ;) I don't have a good answer for how to show appreciation, and saying "thank you for your service" might be the best way to do it. I can tell when it's said with a feeling of obligation as opposed to one of sincerity, and although it personally makes me feel a bit uncomfortable, I do appreciate the sentiment. Y'know, maybe you should just come up with your own one liner that's a bit different than "thank you for your service." I have a habit of saying "thank you for your help" instead of just "thank you" when I really want to mean it. Surprisingly, that little addition goes a long way.