A Pleasant Valley graduate, Robert Beardsley, has been selected to attend the United States Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York. He will be in the class of 2020.
Beardsley was one of 10 nominees appointed by lawmakers. He got three nominations, one from Senator Chuck Grassley, one from Senator Joni Ernst and another from Congressman Dave Loebsack.
Since his graduation from Pleasant Valley High School in 2015, Beardsley has been attending Shreiner University in Kerrville, Texas. He attends the Greystone Military Academy Prep program to continue his training.
Beardsley said he was inspired by an Army Ranger he worked with as a Cub Scout. He mentioned how the ranger’s confidence and leadership founded an “enormous amount of pride and respect” for those who serve.
“It is because of these feelings that I too chose a life dedicated to service within the United States Armed Forces,” Beardsley said in a statement.
Beardsley plans to earn a degree in marine engineering and become a Special Warfare Officer. After attending the Merchant Marine Academy, Beadsley can serve in any branch of the military he chooses; his current plans are to join the United States Navy.
Speaking about Beardsley’s appointment to the academy, Loebsack said “Every Iowan should be proud of [Robert Beardsley’s] future service to our nation.”
“My dream is to serve my country as an academy trained and educated leader,” Beardsley added. “There is no greater honor than to defend the United States and protect the brave men and women who have served and are currently in the Armed Forces.”
Robert Beardsley is the son of Kimberly and Bob Beardsley, both whom work for John Deere. Beardsley has a younger sister, Kendall, who is graduating from Pleasant Valley High School in May of 2016, with plans to attend St. Ambrose.
