Senior Christopher Stefanski, a four-year leader in GRC’s JROTC program, has been appointed to the United States Air Force Academy.

“I was so stoked when I got the call,” said Christopher. “I’m really at a loss for words.”

Nominated by Rep. Andy Barr for all four military academies, Christopher received the call Wednesday. “I was a little worried since it’s been a dream for so long,” he said, “but after I got the call, a huge weight was lifted.”

Inspired by his grandfather, Stanley Stefanski, a Navy pilot in WWII, Christopher has wanted to be in the military since he was 5.

“I learned from my grandfather how successful people can be with the training and experiences they get in the military,” said Christopher. “I got hooked into the idea after seeing how the military helped my grandfather grow.”

Christopher’s ultimate goal is to become a Navy Seal. “Even though I’m attending the Air Force Academy, I can go straight into the Navy,” he explained. “I have always been set on the Navy special forces and being a Navy Seal is the ultimate challenge. I want to push through it and show that I can do something most people think is impossible.”

Christopher’s preparation for his lifelong dream accelerated when he joined JROTC as a freshman.

“Colonel Alexander and Master Sergeant Lee have helped me so much through my four years,” he said. “The leadership and lifestyle training have shown me what it takes to be a great leader in the military, in business and in life. The friendships, family and brotherhood developed in JROTC are amazing. Everyone believed in me and pushed me toward this dream of mine.”

Active involvement in JROTC, Christopher said, motivated him to get serious about attending a military academy.

“I am ecstatic for Christopher,” Colonel Alexander said. “He is an incredible young man. He leads by example and sets the standard at all times.”

He starts at the Academy, located in Colorado Springs, on June 27. “I am looking forward to the lifestyle,” he said. “The academy offers the same content as any other college but the leadership opportunities, the level of training available, and the cool equipment I get to see and use are unmatched by any other school. All the things I will be exposed to are going to be amazing.”

Christopher believes this is the start of a lasting relationship. “I hope to make the military a career,” he said. “I love the military and I don’t see why I would want to take any other job.”