Valley Christian senior Jonathan Berry ‘17 received an appointment to the United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York.
The academy is one of five United States service academics and graduates licensed Merchant Marine officers of exemplary character who serve America’s marine transportation and defense needs in peace and war.
Jonathan received a nomination to the Merchant Marine Academy from Representative Matt Salmon. He also received a nomination to West Point and the Naval Academy from Senator Jeff Flake.
“I see it as a great opportunity to serve my country and rise above the benchmark,” Jonathan said. “I want to follow in the footsteps of my grandfather who was a Petty Officer in the Navy and carry on my family’s heritage of service.”
Upon graduation from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, midshipmen receive an officer’s commission in the U.S. Armed Forces.
“I want to join either the Marines or the Navy after graduating. I’m leaning towards the Navy because of my grandpa’s service in the Navy in World War II.”
Jonathan is still waiting on his other nominations before making a final decision as to which academy he will be attending in the fall of 2017.