Thirteen students from Johnson County have been appointed to U.S. service academies, marking a significant milestone in their educational and career paths. U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids hosted a send-off event at Corporate Woods Founders Park to honor these young individuals and their families.
Among the students is Vance Provost, an Olathe North alumnus, who overcame a medical disqualification to secure his appointment to West Point. Provost spent a year at Virginia Tech in the corps and cadets program before reapplying and receiving his appointment. He emphasized the importance of commitment, stating, “If you really just put your mind to it, you can do it. Even with setbacks, I just kept pushing and eventually, everything worked out.”
Community and Family Support
Rep. Davids highlighted the crucial role of community and family support in the students’ journeys. She remarked, “Community support, family support, friendship, are all the things that help you get where you’re going.” This sentiment was echoed by Mike Souder, a retired Lieutenant Colonel with the U.S. Army, who advised students to focus on the tasks ahead, assuring them of their preparedness.
Steve Wallace, another retired Lieutenant Colonel, reminded the students of their oath to the Constitution, emphasizing that their commitment is to the truth and not to any political party. He noted the challenging nature of the summer ahead, designed to forge leaders out of the students.
Inspired by Family and Experience
Among the students, Reeder from Blue Valley North and Breneman from SM East shared their motivations for attending a service academy. Reeder was inspired by her service-oriented parents, while Breneman felt a calling after witnessing her cousin’s graduation from a service academy. Both students underscored the importance of dedication and perseverance in achieving their goals.
As these students prepare to embark on their journeys, they carry with them the support of their families and communities, ready to face the challenges ahead and emerge as leaders committed to serving their country.
Original reporting: Johnson County Post (Overland Park) — read the source article.
