Nick Bender is going to miss his Tri-Valley High School graduation tomorrow. He has other, more important plans.

Nick has already started a new chapter in his life as he reported to the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. He left on Monday, June 23rd and started his academic journey on Wednesday the 25th.

The son of Catherine Coombe and Timothy Bender, Nick’s drive to join the Air Force stems from a long-standing desire to serve in the military. His acceptance into the Air Force Academy is a step toward developing himself as a leader and putting others before himself.

“The Air Force develops humble, hardworking and successful leaders,” explained Bender. “That is what I hope to become.”

He also hopes to gain valuable knowledge to further his career and make a difference in the lives of others. With eyes to the skies, Bender aims to become a pilot in the Air Force. If that doesn’t pan out, his backup plan is to pursue a career in Aeronautical Engineering.

Bender is especially looking forward to the career potential and the many opportunities to meet like-minded people. Preparation has been no easy feat. He’s been running and participating in physical training, while also mentally appreciating everything at home before he leaves. He is committed to the Air Force Academy’s recommended physical training program and is mentally preparing by spending time with friends and family.

“I believe the hardest part [about boot camp] will be the mental stress that is added to the basic training,” stated Bender. “I have had the chance to talk to other people who have either enlisted or gone through another Academy. From there, I have learned to make friends, stay humble, and manage my time wisely.”

Not everything about basic training will be doom and gloom. Bender is also looking forward to using it as an opportunity to better himself and build new friendships.

As for how his family has reacted, Bender believes they’re handling it well. He said both his family and friends are very “proud and happy of [his] decision,” and have given him a lot of support.

While he is away, he believes that occasional letters of encouragement and check-ins will help him remember the strong support system he has back home in Grahamsville. He plans to send letters as well.

“Once I have access to my phone, it will be easier to call and text to stay connected,” noted Bender.

After his dedicated service, he plans to continue focusing on the engineering industry and hopes to eventually live in a rural area. He’s also considering additional schooling to receive a master’s degree after graduating from the Academy, though he views that as something to decide later.

In terms of skillsets, Bender hopes to better develop his leadership and communication skills, which will support a future civilian career. While he doesn’t yet know where he’ll be stationed first, his current goal is to secure a pilot slot and begin pilot training.

He’s working to improve his running endurance, push-ups, pull-ups, sit-ups, and core strength. Bender believes that by the end of basic training, he’ll be prepared for future deployment. In the meantime, he views this phase as a valuable time to gain experience and learn more about himself and others.

“I have done some research, mainly about the healthcare and education aspects of the [military] benefits,” explained Bender. “I think it [the Air Force] will challenge me to adapt and learn from every obstacle I face, either by myself or as a team.”