Congresswoman's Event Inspires Military Careers

Gabriel Chavez wants to jump out of planes. Lucas Skinner wants to fly planes. Sierra Marrero wants to join the FBI.

And all three Murrieta Mesa High School students hope to receive the training to propel them to their goals through the U.S. Military.

"I feel that this is my  best option," said Lucas, a 17-year-old sophomore. "I'm really looking for a challenge."

Mesa students packed the school's library on Tuesday evening, filling nearly every chair at the event.

The event was organized and sponsored by U.S. Rep. Mary Bono Mack, R-Palm Springs. Although the congresswoman was not able to attend the event, representatives from her office were on hand during the evening with information for the high schoolers. Students interested in attending one of the military institutions were also encouraged to sign up with Bono Mack's office in order to receive more information.

Representatives from the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, answered questions about their respective institutions and encouraged students to explore all branches of the military.

"Every year I run into someone who only nominated for one (branch of the military) --not smart," said Lt. Col. Richard Blanco during the presentation portion of the evening.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Christina Bell elaborated, saying that someone might be profiled as a great candidate for the Air Force but then really find their niche in the U.S. Navy.

After showing a video espousing the values of a military education, students milled around the library visiting with the representatives.  For Gabriel, the aspiring plane-jumper, the evening was initially a disappointment.

"I was looking forward to meeting the officer from West Point, but he didn't show... again," he said.

The 17-year-old sophomore attended the event last year and the U.S. Military Academy was a no-show then, too. And that's where he has his heart set. "West Point, all the way," he said.

But a few minutes later, Gabriel walked by with a smile on his face. West Point had showed, he said.

For Phalen Cochran, Tuesday was an eye-opener. Ever since scouts from West Point attended her softball game, the 16-year-old had thought her future was all about the U.S. Military Academy. But the presentations, particularly Blanco's words, changed her mind.

"As the colonel was talking I (realized) how much it would change my life," she said. Phalen explained that she was inspired when he said that the institutions would leave an imprint on her life. Now she thinks either the Air Force or the Navy is her calling.

For students who are graduating in the midst of a bad economy, jumping out of planes and flying planes may be an exciting option but it's also a practical one.

Lucas explained that the recession, the lack of jobs and the high cost of college, makes the military quite an attractive option. And it's his choice alone.

"It's not a parent thing," he added. "If my mom had her way, I wouldn't be here looking into this."