Confluence native Tanner Bower has graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, as a U.S. Marine Corps 2nd lieutenant with a bachelor’s in political science.
Bower, 22, said the academy was a rigorous four years where he received excellent training and education.
“There were many unique and incredible opportunities I experienced because of the Academy,” he said in an email. “We had many prominent military and government leaders, like (U.S.) Sen. John McCain, speak to us throughout each semester.
“Additionally, our summers were always packed with meaningful and exciting trainings around the world. With the Academy, I was lucky to travel internationally to France on a military/cultural exchange trip. It was a humbling experience to receive my diploma and commission from the Naval Academy.”
Bower said he plans to attend The Basic School in Quantico, Virginia, for a six-month leadership program, then flight school in Pensacola, Florida, for two or three years.
“I am uncertain what platform I would like to select out of flight school, but my options range from several types of helicopters, the new F-35s, or C-130s,” he said. “After my initial 11-year commitment is completed, I hope to continue to serve and make a career in the Marine Corps.”
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Bower’s father, Mark Bower, also noted that his son was married three weeks after his graduation.
His wife, Courtney (Scott) Bower, graduated from Penn State Air Force ROTC as a 2nd lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force in May.
About the Naval Academy
The U.S. Naval Academy was founded in 1845 and has graduated one president, 21 congressmen, five governors, 73 Medal of Honor recipients, two Nobel Prize winners, 52 astronauts and 4,000 admirals and generals.
Each year approximately 1,200 men and women are admitted to the academy.
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