HARKER HEIGHTS, Texas — A senior at Harker Heights High School weighed his future options after recently receiving two military appointments, one to the United States Naval Academy and the other to the United States Air Force Academy.
"My father also served in the United States Navy and also in the United States Army for a total of 20 years," Steven White said.
Gregory White said he doesn't have the words to express how proud he is of his son.
"I am proud of my little boy," he said. "I see this man in front of me now. Pride doesn't say it. Pride doesn't encapsulate what my feelings are towards him now."
In addition to his work in the classroom, Steven White is also a member of the JROTC Academic Team, Physical Training Team and Orienteering Team.
He's also on the Harker Heights student council.
When asked what he hopes his son learns when he begins his military career, Gregory White became emotional.
"I'm giving my country my boy and that's a big deal to me," he said. "I want him to learn everything I didn't so he can get some stars on his chest, so he can run this country. That's what I want him to do."
Steven White said he studies and trains to prepare himself for when he may need to help a fellow airman, solider or sailor, should they need him.
He said he wants his classmates to be selfless and believe in things bigger than themselves as they approach graduation.
"If you find a reason to push yourself that isn't based off yourself," Steven White said. "Then you can push yourself to incredibly high heights. To previous heights you didn't know before."
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