Kerry Zhang, a recent graduate of University High School in Irvine, accompanied by his proud parents was one of the honorees accepted to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. (Photo: Susan Hoffman)
Newport Harbor American Legion Post 291 honored 34 Orange County high school seniors who have committed to military service or plan to attend military academies at a special event on Monday night.
The inaugural “Salute to Service” began with recreational activities, including a 30-minute Duffy boat cruise in the harbor, followed by a step-and-repeat photo opportunity for the teens and their families. Among the honored seniors was Kerry Zhang, a new graduate of University High School in Irvine, who has been accepted to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Kerry attended the event with his proud parents, Janelle and Frank Zhang.
“We are so proud of him,” said Janelle Zhang with a beaming smile. Kerry expressed his excitement for the challenges ahead, stating, “I like to challenge myself, and I know for a fact that West Point will make me a better person.”
The event continued as the recent graduates and their parents gathered in the post’s dining room, where they had the opportunity to engage with Veterans and Service Members. A buffet dinner was served, followed by a patriotic program. Each table was hosted by a Veteran or active Service Member from the branch of military each senior had chosen.
Brad Fowler, a retired Navy Seabee and member of Post 291, hosted the Marine Corps table. Fowler, who has experience working with the Marines during his service, shared his insights with the teens and their families.
“I was in the Navy and I’m a retired Seabee. I was stationed with the Marines twice,” said Fowler. “The Navy Seabees’ job was to support Marine operations. We build, we fight.”
Seated at Fowler’s table was Spencer Bantel, a recent graduate of Estancia High School in Costa Mesa, who is set to join the U.S. Marine Corps on September 16. Spencer explained his motivation for enlisting, citing the influence of his neighbor who lost his legs in Vietnam.
“I’d hang out with him a lot, and [serving] kinda makes you tougher,” he said.
Retired Navy Seabee Brad Fowler addresses questions from Spencer Bantel of Costa Mesa, center, and Nick Ventura of Huntington Beach at the Salute to Service event. (Photo: Susan Hoffman)
At another table, Lauren Letwin shared her pride for her son Aaron, a new graduate of San Clemente High School, who is headed to West Point.
“He aspired to join the Army since he was 6 years old, specifically wanting to go to West Point,” said Letwin. “I’m just thrilled he’s been able to make his lifelong dream come true.”
San Clemente senior Aaron Letwin is joined by his parents, Bennett and Lauren, at the Salute to Service event at American Legion Post 291. (Photo: Susan Hoffman)
Meanwhile, at the U.S. Air Force table, Sgt. Carter Thorlakson addressed questions from seniors from Trabuco Hills High School in Mission Viejo and El Toro High School in Lake Forest. One common question was about when they could have their own cars.
“Don’t worry about it right away, you’ll get it later, there’s no rush,” Thorlakson reassured them. “There’s always going to be people there to help the team out.”
The “Salute to Service” event by Newport Harbor American Legion Post 291 was a heartfelt tribute to these young individuals as they embark on their military journeys.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.