LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — A Las Vegas pupil is exhibiting that arduous work, self-discipline, and dedication actually repay.
Jackson Bentham, a standout athlete and pupil chief, is now taking the following daring step in his journey, heading to one of many nation’s most prestigious navy academies.
“To be blessed enough to be one of the few that got into the academy has been a huge accomplishment,” Bentham stated.
Bentham exemplifies what it means to be a excessive achiever. A devoted three-sport athlete in soccer, wrestling, and lacrosse, he additionally leads as Senior Class President and stays actively concerned in Key Membership, Nationwide Honor Society, and Mannequin United Nations.
Now, he’s bringing his expertise, self-discipline, and management to the following degree.
“Ever since a young age, I knew I wanted to go serve in the military, and so, I’ve always been fond of the academies,” Bentham stated. “I got accepted into the Navy Academy, but I have a long lineage of service in the army in my family, and so knowing that I went with West Point.”
Located in New York, West Level is the nation’s oldest and one among its most selective navy academies. Admission requires distinctive educational and bodily {qualifications}, together with a nomination from a member of Congress or one other military-affiliated supply.
“You have to get a congressional nomination either from a representative of the House or a senator. You have to do physical tests,” Bentham stated. “You have to have good grades and be in a lot of extracurriculars to achieve something like this.”
Bentham began the applying course of over a 12 months in the past and in the end secured 4 nominations, together with ones from Congressman Steven Horsford and Senator Catherine Cortez Masto.
“We are so very proud of him. Our family is deeply patriotic and deeply American, and so to have this happen is just sincerely a dream come true,” stated Jackson’s mom, Shannon Bentham.
Jackson’s mom, Shannon Bentham, stated this milestone has been a very long time coming.
“Even as early as second grade, he would hold up his little sign that says ‘I want to be’ and it began as a military person, and then over time, it eventually turned into West Point cadet,” Bentham stated. “I have this long line of photos of him documenting this kid’s goal early on, so it’s been quite impressive to watch him move through that goal and ultimately achieve it.”
The official appointment arrived in January. On June 30, Jackson will head to New York to start fundamental coaching, kicking off an intensive 8-week boot camp that can mark his official entry as a West Level cadet.
“It really is a great way to commission you into the Army as an officer and it’s very prestigious,” Bentham stated. “I plan to major in international affairs. I’ve always been fond of studying the global marketplace and global policy.”
Following commencement, he plans to serve eight years, 5 on lively obligation, with the remaining three in both lively obligation or the reserves.
For Jackson and his household, this accomplishment isn’t simply private – it’s patriotic.
“We are so very proud of him,” his mom stated. “Our family is deeply patriotic and deeply American, and to have this happen is just sincerely a dream come true.”
