MILITARY BRIEFS

Smith

GB student scores $1,500 scholarship

Rachel Smith of Gulf Breeze is a recipient of a $1,500 college scholarship from the Scholarships for Military Children Program awarded at Whiting Field.

Smith is one of 566 college and high school students nationwide to win the scholarship. Smith is the daughter of Thomas and Patricia Smith and plans to enroll at the University of North Florida. Rachel's School and community activities include: National Honor Society, Heart of America Volunteer, College Honors Program, Basketball, softball, volleyball and student government.

Applicants for the 2007 program were required to maintain a 3.0 grade point average, participate in voluntary school and community activities, demonstrate leadership qualities and write an essay answering the question: "If you had the power to change the outcome of any event in history, what would you change and why?"

Navarre grad enlists with Navy

Civilian Andrew C. Polston, a 2005 graduate of Navarre High School, Navarre, Fla., recently enlisted in the United States Navy under the Delayed Entry Program at Navy Recruiting District, New Orleans, La. The program allows recruits to enter the Navy and take up to one year to complete prior commitments such as high school. Using recruiters as mentors, this program helps recruits ease into the transition from civilian to military life.

Polston will report for active duty to undergo basic training at the Navy's Recruit Training Center, Great Lakes, Ill.

Beach resident completes basic

Army National Guard Pfc. Joshua D. Purcell has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C.

During the nine weeks of training, the soldier studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, physical fitness, and received instruction and practice in basic combat skills, military weapons, chemical warfare and bayonet training, drill and ceremony, marching, rifle marksmanship, armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military courtesy, military justice system, basic first aid, foot marches, and field training exercises.

He is the son of David Purcell of Avenida 15, Pensacola Beach.

Navarre grad completes AF basic

Air Force Airman Ward A. Swenson has graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

During the six weeks of training, the airman studied the Air Force mission, organization, and military customs and courtesies; performed drill and ceremony marches, and received physical training, rifle marksmanship, field training exercises, and special training in human relations.

In addition, airmen who complete basic training earn credits toward an associate degree through the Community College of the Air Force. Swenson is the son of Karen Bransten of Turkey Creek Drive, Navarre. The airman is a 2006 graduate of Navarre High School.