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A Step Above: A Step Above – Brandon Koltes
Palo Verde High School
Class of 2013
The wild blue yonder awaits for Palo Verde High School senior Brandon Koltes as he will fulfill a lifelong dream when he reports to the United States Air Force Academy this summer. Hailing from a military family, Brandon hopes to uphold the tradition by pursuing a career in aeronautical engineering with an eye toward becoming a fighter pilot. Faith, family and flexibility are the keywords that define this dedicated young man’s life, and he hopes to keep all three firmly in sight as he continues to soar toward his goals. For always taking pride in both his country and himself, Brandon Koltes rises to – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.554
Sports/Activities
- Football, 2009-10
- Cross Country, 2011-12; Captain, 2012
- JROTC, 2009-13; Flight Commander, 2011; Squadron Commander, 2012
- Civil Air Patrol, 2009-13; Cadet of the Year, 2009
- Cadet Commander (Civil Air Patrol), 2011-12
- Flight Commander (Civil Air Patrol), 2012
- Keystone Club, 2009-10
- National Honor Society, 2010-13
- Fellowship of Christian Athletes, 2009
- President of Children of the American Revolution, 2009-10
- President of Social Studies Club, 2011-13
Awards/Community Service
- United States Air Force Academy Scholarship, 2013
- Outstanding Citizenship Award, 2011-13
- Voice of Democracy Regional Winner, 2011
- Commander’s Commendation Award, 2010 & 2012
- National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution Award, 2010 & 2012
- Amelia Earhart Award (Civil Air Patrol), 2012
- Ira Eaker Award (Civil Air Patrol), 2012
- Nevada Wing Encampment Commander (Civil Air Patrol), 2012
- National Make a Difference Day, 2006-09
- Mexico Mission Trips, 2011-13
Goals & Aspirations: “My current goals include graduating with an honors diploma. I plan to study Aeronautical Engineering at the United States Air Force Academy and ultimately be commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant. My dream would be to earn a pilot slot and fly fighters. My long term goals include running for political office and making a difference in my community.”
Brandon Looks Up To: “I look up to my father because he had a successful career in aviation but also maintained his values and beliefs throughout the struggles unique to military life. He taught me what it means to serve others and always find the positive in the negative.”
Part of the Solution: “The key issue facing young adults today is a lack of drive and desire to accomplish something great despite adversity. I believe that it is through adversity one truly achieves their greatest success. I would be a part of the solution by partnering alongside those who are struggling and give them encouragement and motivation to follow their dreams.”
