Mallory Burbage was noticeably nervous as she sat with Staff Sergeant Brian Ford to practice her interview skills. As a senior at Littleton High School, she has good grades, athletic accomplishments and leadership skills, but this mock interview during the Military Exploration Workshop at LHS October 5th represented an important step for her – she’s considering whether she should go to college at The United States Military Academy – more commonly known as West Point.

“I’m interested in learning about all of the aspects of the military,” said Burbage. “My grandfathers were in the Army and the Reserve, so I’m definitely interested in West Point. But right now I’m wondering if West Point is better than ROTC at another school, or should I enlist?”

Mallory Burbage of LHS.

Questions like Mallory’s were at the core of the workshop programs, which held 30-minute information sessions in the LHS library, lobby and several classrooms. Seven military branches were present, and 25 servicemen spoke about subjects that included the enlistment process, ROTC (Reserve Officers’ Training Corps) opportunities, and the military academies. Held in partnership with Generation Schools Network and Littleton High School, the Workshop provided LPS high school students, parents and guests from surrounding high schools (Englewood and Sheridan) a unique opportunity to learn more about a future in the armed services.

Dr. Amy Oaks, Littleton High School principal noted, “This is the first time we’ve held a military exploration workshop – ever. It’s a good thing to help our high school students understand the honor, opportunity and challenges represented by the U.S. military. There are students that want to serve, and students that want to be leaders.”

The recruitment tables were a popular stop for students as they talked with recruiters. While checking out the Marine Corps table, Will Naumann, a junior at Arapahoe High School, said “I have a passion for hard work, and I really believe in the values the military stands for. I’ve had military in my family for a long time, and I think it’s a great way to do what I want and make an impact on the world. I’ve been to other college fairs, but this is the best thing I’ve done.”

Will Naumann of AHS with members of the United States Marine Corps.

During her opening remarks to the attendees, Dr. Oaks reminded the 21 student attendees and their parents how good choices are foundational for success. “We say here at LHS “make a living, make a life, make a difference”, and this is an opportunity for students to consider the military as a career pathway that will allow them to do that.”

Students were excused from morning classes so they could participate in the workshop and hear current and former military personnel speak about “Why I Serve,” “Academic Requirements for the Military,” and “Training and Educational Opportunities for Service Men and Women”. United States House Representative Mike Coffman was the Keynote speaker and talked about the leadership skills he developed while serving in the U.S. Army, U.S. Army Reserve, U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Marine Corps Reserve.

Given today’s uncertain economy and challenging job market, the recruiters touted military benefits that come with the commitment to serve, including job skills, steady paychecks, money for college education, health care, family services and cost of living allowances. High school seniors who choose the military also have the opportunity to earn college degrees through multiple educational programs, which unlike many of their peers, won’t require student loans.

While all of the service branches have famous alumni, Lt. Colonel Chris Padbury – representing the USAF Academy in Colorado Springs – reminded the students that Captain Sully Sullenberger (who safely landed a commercial jet liner in the Hudson river, saving all 155 passengers and crew) was a 1973 Academy graduate and learned to fly there as a cadet. “Show us that this is something that you really want to do. We want your new ideas. We need your help – we are fighting battles and solving problems – so our academies look at you and say “come help us do great things.” It’s an honor to serve and do that.”

Lieutenant Colonel Chris Padbury with Will Naumann.

By the end of the workshop, Mallory had a better understanding of the academy selection process. “I received a lot more information than I was expecting. It makes me more excited now that I know what to prepare for. The mock interview was very helpful, and hearing about everyday life at the academy was great. Without this event I don’t know where I would have found the answers to my questions so easily.”

Even her father Craig Burbage found the presentations helpful. “The breakout sessions were dynamic and allowed for lots of questions and answers. We picked up key information that will make our decisions easier.”

So what did Staff Sergeant Ford think of Mallory’s interview? “Mallory presented herself very professionally. She had a firm handshake and made good eye contact, showed a lot of poise. She will excel wherever she decides to go – if it’s West Point or another academy – as she’s an outstanding young lady. I’ve got four more years to serve and then I’m out, but I’m looking forward to saluting her if I’m still around.”

Article and photos courtesy of Bill Youmans