Moeller Seniors Accept Military Academy Challenge
By Connor Christenson
Moeller is known for transforming young boys into remarkable men. As students grow in maturity and selflessness during their time at the school, Moeller sees many students carry these values beyond high school by pursuing a life of service through the United States Military Academies.
This year three Moeller students, Tommy Stines (West Point), Joe Ginnetti (USAFA), and Matthew Seliga (Naval Academy), have decided to take on the challenge of attending the United States Service Academies and serving in the United States Military.
When asked what contributed to the decision to go into the the Academies, Stines said, “I wanted to be a part of something bigger than myself… and have the chance to receive a great education.” Ginnetti added that it was “the amazing opportunities the school offers and the connections the academy has to offer after college” that figured into his decision. Lastly, Seliga explained his choice saying, “I wanted to make my decision off of the school that would give me the best opportunity to succeed in life while making me the best man possible.” A common thread for all three students was gaining opportunities and doing more with their life while becoming a better man.
Tommy Stines and his father while visiting West Point.
Joe Ginnetti touring the aviation program while at USAFA
Matthew Seliga posing for a sick picture while at the Naval Academy.
All three students also have definite plans for what they want to accomplish during and after their time at the academies. Stines said “I want to serve our country and protect the freedoms that we have…and I plan on going into the infantry with hopes of becoming a Ranger.” Ginnetti also plans to pursue a career in the air force as a pilot, noting it would extend his service “from five to ten years, but I definitely think it would be worth it.” Seliga stated, “I want to serve because I think we live in the best country in the world, and I’m willing to make sacrifices to protect it.” While in the Navy, Seliga plans to be a Naval aviation officer or a Marine Corps officer.
Of course, all three students have a mix of excitement with some apprehension when looking towards this next challenge. Seliga shared, “I’m concerned about the intense workload and the lack of freedom of a normal student, but I am excited to play college football, meet new people, and be a part of something bigger than myself.” Likewise, Ginnetti, also looks forward to the excitement and challenges ahead, “I’m extremely excited to play college football and build great relationships with my teammates and classmates.” However, Ginnetti knows college will bring a big lifestyle change, “I’m concerned about moving out there. Us teens have lived our lives the same way the past eighteen years.” Tommy also is concerned about the academy being extremely difficult, but he is excited to embark on a challenge not many get the opportunity to do: “I know it will be hard and physically and mentally challenging, however I’m excited for the challenge knowing I have an experience not many have to be able to do things like shoot guns, blow up stuff, and ride in helicopters across the world.”
The Moeller school and community are very proud of the path these young men have chosen in their lives and wish them safety as they fight to protect our freedoms and our country.