Ben Howard

My experiences in academics, athletics, and leadership environments have confirmed my desire to serve as a naval officer and lead others with integrity and accountability.

When I was five, my dad signed me up for Little League. I loved being part of a team and learned the importance of understanding all aspects of the game. As team captain, I set the tone at practices, motivated teammates through setbacks, and upheld accountability in both wins and losses.

At the age of fourteen, I applied to the Cambria County Camp Cadet Program. The application process, similar to the military academy application process, exposed me to the kind of expectations and importance to detail when interviewing with an officer. Interviews were held by several Pennsylvania State Troopers, and I was granted admission to the program. The camp was run by the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) and other local organizations, focusing on discipline, self-esteem, and teamwork while introducing the criminal justice system and promoting positive law enforcement interaction through academy-style training and physical activities. Each day began at 5:30 a.m. Reveille followed by bunk inspection, Physical Training (one mile run and calisthenics), and breakfast. Daytime consisted of marching between all activities in platoon formation under the direction of PSP instructors. Instructional activities included radar operation, forensics, fingerprinting, self-defense (boxing), obstacle courses, first aid, CPR certification, and firearm safety. Presentations were given by specialized state and local units of the PA Game Commission, PSP, and military personnel who demonstrated wildlife capture techniques, aviation, mounted unit, and K-9 unit. Cadets also went on local field trips to the county courthouse, county jail, county prison, and 911 emergency center. At the end of each day, we ate dinner together, played competitive sports (baseball, basketball), retreated, formed, and lights out by 10 p.m. Camp Cadet instilled toughness, attention to detail, and following through even when conditions are uncomfortable. At the graduation ceremony, my fellow cadets and I demonstrated discipline by reciting the Call to Honor within a unified platoon. Camp Cadet showed me that leadership is earned through consistency, respect, and the willingness to hold oneself to the same standards expected of others.

Building on the discipline and focus I gained from these activities, academically, I have challenged myself through Advanced Placement coursework while maintaining high grades.

honors every quarter. I take pride in managing a challenging workload and pushing myself beyond minimum expectations. In eleventh grade, I was selected by my teachers and accepted into the Penn State Readiness Institute Discovery Program. I participated in off-site field trips to the Pittsburgh Energy Center, Lockheed Martin, and locally owned businesses. We learned about career paths within STEM-related industries and engaged in community service by volunteering to clean up the local PA Trailways. This program further prepared me for making career-related decisions.

My mission is to develop myself morally, mentally, and physically. I am prepared to accept the sacrifices required of a naval officer and am committed to serving my country to the highest standard.

I seek an appointment to the United States Merchant Marine Academy and Naval Academy because I am ready to be challenged, held accountable, and developed into a leader worthy of the trust placed in naval officers. It would also be an honor to seek appointment to the United States Naval Academy Preparatory School.

CPR Certified