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Clovis High School senior Pierce Hoyer has been given four nominations to the U.S. Naval Academy from state legislators and President Barack Obama. His goal is to pursue a assignment in Naval Special Warfare.
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Clovis High School senior Pierce Hoyer has a distinct vision of what he wants to do with the rest of his life.
The 17-year-old football player and track team member recently received nominations to attend the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., from three New Mexico legislators, as well as President Barack Obama.
Only 100 candidates nationwide are appointed with a presidential nomination each year.
Next comes the application process and waiting to hear back from the Naval Academy as to whether he has been admitted, but Hoyer isn’t sweating it yet.
“I want to serve the nation as an officer and lead men and women and just do the best I can do,” he said.
How competitive was the process to get chosen for a nomination from Senator Udall?
I think there were probably about 150 kids that were applying to get a nomination. He was allotted five slots for each academy. I also got nominations from Sen. Martin Heinrich and Congressman Ben Ray Lujan.
I found out yesterday that I got President Obama’s nomination. That has to do with if your father or mother is an active duty member in the military. My dad is active duty in the Air Force. I was pretty happy when I heard about that.
What’s the next step in getting chosen to attend the Naval Academy?
I’ve also applied to West Point and I think I’m going to apply to the Merchant Marine Academy as well. I’m completely done with my applications and now I just wait. April 15th is about the time.
I know the bulk of the class is made in March and February. I’m hoping to get a letter of regret between now and February, or an appointment. I’m not too worried yet.
Have you always wanted to attend a military academy?
Ever since I was a baby. It’s been my dream. It’s extremely prestigious and I’ve always known that I want to be an officer in the military.
What have you done throughout your life and in school to prepare you for the military and military education?
Obviously growing up in a military family, I’ve been accustomed (to it) and been around military things and the military lifestyle. I know what to expect a little bit. With football, that’s helped me a lot and getting yelled at. Coach (Eric) Roanhaus prepared me a little bit I think.
I think just having the right mindset and going there will be how I succeed. I don’t think anything can truly prepare you.
What would you like to do in the Navy?
I want to go Naval Special Warfare. If that doesn’t work out, maybe a submarine officer. Right now Naval Special Warfare has been the goal. That’s the whole reason I want to go to Annapolis.