Jesus Cortez is a first-generation American and one of the first in his family to go to college.
And what a college.
Cortez, of Dalton, Ga., is one of five students who have won appointments to U.S. military academies from North Georgia, according to U.S. Rep. Tom Graves, R-Ga., who represents Georgia’s 14th District.
Cortez will be attending the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.
Samuel Anderson, of Calhoun, Ga.; Marjorie Bonner, of Trenton, Ga.; and Joseph Miller of Flintstone, Ga., will attend the U.S. Naval Academy. Robert Dau of Dallas, Ga., will attend the U.S. Air Force Academy.
As a member of Congress, Graves is responsible for nominating students from his district to the military academies, his office said in a news release.
Graves worked with an independent board of military advisers to review applications and choose students to nominate for the prestigious appointments. The military academies made final choices from nominations received from around the country.
“I am grateful to these five students for their decision to use their intellect and talent to serve our country,” Graves said in the statement. “Congratulations to each of these young people on their appointment to the Class of 2019.”
According to the release, the academies provide a top-notch, four-year college education in addition to military officer training. Tuition, housing, food, books and other college costs are free, and students commit to five years of active duty military service as officers after graduation.
Cortez said he is thinking about studying engineering. He said he couldn’t wait to report to West Point June 29.
“It’s life-changing,” Cortez said. “With a great institution like West Point, and the career opportunities offered throughout the military, there will be many great opportunities for personal growth.”
Contact Will Healey at whealey@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6731.