Success Stories
Name: Justin King

What year did you graduate LCS? 2005

What military academy did/do you attend? How long? United States Naval Academy (Annapolis) Currently in my 4th year, “firstie”

What is/was your position/title? 1st Semester: Battalion Character Advisor, 2nd Semester: Company Adjutant

What made you want to join the military after high school? I wanted a chance to serve my country, and to be pushed beyond what I thought my limits were. I wanted the privilege to lead the best sailors and Marines in the world. And of course, the free college education played a part too.

What have been some of the hardest things to conquer academically, mentally, and physically? Academically: Physics major courses, Mentally: The transition from civilian life to military life. Physically: Sea Trials, a 14-hour physical and mental endurance test that marks the culmination of a midshipman's freshman, or plebe, year. Many of the challenges were cast as missions or situations in a war zone, and designed to test and strengthen you physically and psychologically.

What is the best thing about being in the military? The respect that people give you, whether you feel like you deserve it or not.

What are some of the exciting opportunities you have had in the military? Shooting M-16’s, flying in a T-34, serving as a commanding officer of a YP "Yard Patrol" training vessel, serving as a squad leader, staying the night on a sub, seeing the President in person twice, riding in a helicopter.

What do you do during your free time? Sleep mostly, play guitar, spend time away from the Academy.

What do you miss most about home? Family, friends, and the slower-paced, country lifestyle of East Texas. Oh, and Sonic.

When you are home, what do you miss most about the academy? The friends I have made there.

What advice would you give to all high school students? Enjoy high school; you will miss it when it’s gone.

What advice would you give any students interested in attending a military academy? Get involved in your high school and take as many leadership roles as you can. Get in the best shape you can. Know that you are joining the military--it will not be like a civilian school. Take the SAT and ACT as many times as possible.

What is next for you? I have been selected to be a Marine Corps Pilot, which will require six months in Quantico, Virginia at TBS “the basic school”, then one and a half to two years Flight School in Pensacola, Florida.

How do you feel LCS helped you in preparation for joining the military? The Christian background helped me develop the character and ethics needed to become successful. The education also set me up for success, as I have performed above average in my classes.

What are some of the strengths you have developed in the military? I am able to manage my time much better than before. I am in better shape. I handle stressful situations better than before, and I have improved my leadership skills.

What has been your proudest achievement? I was proud when I obtained  a 4.0 GPA, but being a squad leader and being able to have a daily influence on the lives of the ten people in my squad was my proudest achievement.

Who has impacted your life the most? God. He has been a constant source of strength and comfort.

What do you remember being your favorite aspect of LCS? Sports. I loved playing basketball and soccer in high school.

What do you remember being some of your favorite memories at LCS? Being on stage crew, winning the conference in soccer my senior year and my senior class trip.

Why do you prefer private Christian school to public school? Smaller size allows you to be involved in whatever you want, and the Christian influence helps build your faith rather than being at odds with it.

What was your greatest achievement at LCS? Winning the Eagle Award (Award given to one athlete that has shown outstanding athleticism and maintained a positive, godly, sportsman-like attitude in every circumstance.)

Are there any other experiences or thoughts you would like to share? Go Navy, Beat Army! (And Air Force!)

Why is your military branch better than the others? The Commander in Chief trophy has not left Annapolis in six years!