Washington High School senior Colin Briggs has received an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy, a highly competitive and prestigious honor awarded to a small percentage of applicants nationwide.

Each year, thousands of students apply to the academy, but only a limited number receive appointments, making it one of the most selective opportunities available to high school seniors.

Admission to a United States service academy is a rigorous process that evaluates academic achievement, leadership, physical fitness, and character. In addition to meeting strict academic and leadership standards, candidates must also secure a nomination, typically from a member of Congress, as part of the application process.

Briggs received a nomination from Congresswoman Ann Wagner.

At the Air Force Academy, Briggs will receive a world-class education while preparing for a career as an officer in the United States Air Force. Graduates earn a bachelor’s degree and commit to serving their country following graduation.

 “My grandpa was in the Air Force. That’s what first got me interested. He died when I was in seventh grade. When that happened, I decided that I wanted to be in the Air Force,” Briggs said. “Then talking to Dr. (Jennifer) Kephart’s son (Murphy) about the Air Force - he came in to ROTC and talked about the academy. That really opened my eyes. My dad being on the city council, I got to know (Washington Mayor) Doug Hagedorn a little bit, who was in the academy, and he talked to me about it. All of those things really made me want to do it.”

Briggs said the application process was extensive and required multiple steps over several months.

“Last summer, I had to go through candidate testing and submit several things like medical records and other information. I passed that and had to start on the application portal,” Briggs said. “I had to go to three medical exams in St. Louis - one of them was in Illinois - and answer questions about my academic record, extracurricular activities, language skills, and other things. I also had to write an essay, submit my ACT score, and complete a physical fitness test, which included a one-mile run, shuttle run, basketball throw, push-ups, sit-ups, and pull-ups. I also had to submit academic evaluations from an English teacher and a math teacher. It was a very involved process.”

Briggs completed his physical fitness test at Washington High School under the supervision of NJROTC instructor Senior Chief Nathan Hernandez.

Briggs said his goal is to become a pilot, which carries a 10-year commitment to the Air Force.

“I want to do 20 years and retire. That’s my plan,” Briggs said. “That will put me at 42 years old. I don’t know if I will retire at 42, but I could.”

Briggs will report to the academy in Colorado Springs on June 24.

“I’m excited. It’s still a little strange to think that I’m doing this,” Briggs said. “It hasn’t fully sunk in.”

Briggs is actively involved at Washington High School through NJROTC, Student Council (Vice President), Leadership, National Honor Society, Senior Class President, Link Crew, Junior WINGS Board, soccer, basketball, and girls soccer manager. His involvement reflects a strong commitment to leadership, teamwork, and service - qualities that are central to the academy’s mission.

Colin is the son of Chad and Nichole Briggs. He is undecided on what he will study at the Air Force Academy.

 

Washington High School senior Colin Briggs has received an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy, a highly competitive and prestigious honor awarded to a small percentage of applicants nationwide.