Daniel Kenney | Photographer
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Chase Eckman: cadet in training

Daniel Kenney | Photographer

Seniors are eagerly waiting for the moment their high school careers come to an end. And for most, the excitement of college drawing near is almost overwhelming. But for a few, including senior Chase Eckman, the military track was more appealing than the traditional college experience.

For Eckman, the decision to join the military after high school was easy.

“I decided to take the military route after high school because I feel that it is the best way for me to give back to the community that has provided me with so many amazing opportunities,” Eckman said.

Eckman got into West Point, which is the hardest military school to get in to. This school requires not only receiving an application, but a recommendation as well, usually from a member of Congress, however some recommendations come in from the President himself. Around 1,300 “cadets” enter each year.

“I started writing my three essays for USMA before summer and had to complete physical, medical, and academic exams in order to qualify,” Eckman said. “In addition, I had to apply for a congressional nomination for our local representative, our two state senators and the president in order to be appointed.”

For some of the students who have made this decision, the military track is already in their blood. They are following in the footsteps of family members that they have looked up to. This is how it is for Eckman.

“I come from a military family,” Eckman said. “So it has always been a dream of mine to join the Army and follow in my father’s footsteps.”

Though the choice to join may be hard for some, Chase has kept in mind his role model, which has allowed him to have something to aspire towards in his military endeavors.

“Someone who has really influenced me to go this route would be my dad,” Eckman said. “He has definitely been my role model in this choice.”

These students who have made this decision have now finished up with high school and are taking the next big step. They are prepared to end the year, then go and serve their country.

“I’m very excited,” Eckman said. “I’m definitely in for a crazy ride but I know it will all be worth it in the end.”

Written by Morgan Lanyon

Morgan is a senior at Mt. Carmel High School. She is kept constantly busy with varsity field hockey, Hebrew school, swim team, and being the co-Editor in Chief of the MC Sun. She has a problem with watching too much TV, and eating an excessive amount of snacks. She knows the lyrics to practically every Billy Joel song, and doesn't care who knows. She also knows about most celebrities, and can answer your questions almost as fast as the internet.

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