SOTM: Senior Soldiers Kennedy Rogers and Sam Hucko

When a student enters a military academy, they are receiving the honor and making a sacrifice that accompanies their enrollment. They must consider their dedication, desire to serve others, and acknowledge the discipline and sense of duty in pursuing a military education. 

Seniors Kennedy Rodgers and Sam Hucko will both attend a military academy in the fall. Kennedy is going to the United States Military Academy at West Point, and Sam is going to the United States Air Force Academy. At graduation, a representative from each academy will deliver a speech recognizing the students for their appointment into the military school and the quality of education the students will receive. Each representative will describe the history, honor, and tradition of his or her respective school, and outline how that specific academy serves the nation. 

Kennedy Rodgers will be attending as a chemical engineering major. She aspires to enter into the branch of military intelligence, but says, “You don’t have to narrow down which job assignment you want in the beginning of your service; there are so many different options and it feels very open-ended.” She selected a military academy for its leadership opportunities as well as its extensive network. She also chose West Point because of its campus environment. Once she interacted with current students, she felt at home. She also plans to join the women’s lacrosse team in the fall. 

West Point Commit Kennedy Rogers

Sam Hucko's goal at the Air Force Academy is to rise through the ranks and become a pilot. He applied because of an organization called the Tongue of Towers, which assists veterans and first responders.Volunteering sparked an interest in him to serve in the military; he felt he could adapt to the rigorous lifestyle since he has always been a disciplined person. The first military academy he visited was the Air Force, and shortly after he visited the Naval Academy. After the tours, he leaned more towards the Navy. It was a battle between the Navy and Air Force, but the Air Force offered him an appointment first. This made him gravitate towards the Air Force; the beautiful campus, enticing environment, and dedicated people there finalized his decision.

Air Force Commit: Sam Hucko

These senior soldiers will face a challenging curriculum and rigorous program of development. However, it will be a rewarding experience in the end.