U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) visited Bridgeport High School Thursday to recognize five of 40 West Virginia students nominated to U.S. service academies. Nominated to attend the U.S. Military Academy at West Point were Bridgeport High School’s Fisher A. Rector, Zachary A. Kimble and Cole D. Amos. Nominated to attend the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis was Haden R. Miller. All were in attendance with their parents at today’s assembly, which took place in the BHS auditorium. Also recognized at this afternoon’s event was Alexander A. Altenburg of Notre Dame High School, nominated to attend the Naval Academy in Annapolis.

 

Senator Manchin was introduced by his cousin, Dr. Mark Manchin, superintendent of Harrison County Schools, who said on behalf of the board of education, he is quite proud of the students’ accomplishments and abilities.

 

Before recognizing nominees and their families, Senator Manchin presented BHS Principal Mark DeFazio with an American flag for the school; a flag, he said, that represents that America is still the hope of the world – the only place where people have the true freedom to express themselves and receive ultimate opportunity.

 

“And we’re the only country, basically, that upholds a rule of law – a rule of law that provides opportunity and advancement regardless of class or race or anything else.”

 

Before calling nominees and their families to be recognized, Senator Manchin said it was an opportunity and privilege to nominate the outstanding students who desire to further their education at one of the military academies and thereafter serve their country.

 

“This is a heck of a commitment and something to be very proud of,” he said. “It’s one of the greatest educational opportunities you’ll ever receive, but also to accept the call of duty and serve our country is one unlike any other.”

 

For these students to know what lies ahead – not only four years of quality academic education – but also the duty to serve, it’s something to take notice of, he said.

 

“When someone is willing to but a uniform on and take a bullet for you or I and defend this great country, that’s something pretty special. I’m very happy and honored to recognize them,” Senator Manchin said. “…For (these students) to have this desire and to get to this level and have their parents’ support, it means everything to our country. They make us extremely proud.”

 

The BHS juniors and seniors in attendance applauded the senator’s remarks and their fellow students being recognized today.

 

Senator Manchin also took the opportunity to recognize Bridgeport Middle School student and reigning Miss West Virginia Junior High School Dakota Swiger, who was born with and has battled congenital scoliosis and is utilizing that battle as the basis for her platform.

 

He also utilized today’s assembly to talk with the high school students about the drug epidemic, explaining the need for additional treatment centers and about some legislation he has introduced to try to remedy that problem. He also talked to them about the basic components of success, comparing the formula to that of a successful business owner. Whether it’s an item being marketed – or oneself – he said, it’s necessary to have a quality product – to be the best one can be; be aware of the competition and establish a good price – understanding one’s true value; and have good serviceability. When that applies to an individual, he said, that means not only being a good self-starter, but having the motivation to go to the next level and seek out ways and ideas to be the best one can be i.e. a valuable employee.

 

Senator Manchin opened the floor for questions and received many good inquiries from the student body.

 

Additional photos will be posted to Connect-Bridgeport.