No last summer, M-W grad enrolls in Navy

Monroe - High school graduations are over and many local grads are looking for jobs, rejoicing with friends or soaking up their first summer in years without reading lists. But for those who choose the military life, there is no summer job, no bonfires or ice cream at Mr. Cones and above all, no time to relax. Jessica Grupp graduated from Monroe-Woodbury High School on June 22 and by June 27 was being sworn in as a midshipman at the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. “I let her decide by herself,” said her father, Jim Grupp. “It’s a big commitment … you’re talking about nine years of your life.” After midshipmen graduate from the academy they are required to serve at least five years. Jessica’s decision to attend the academy, which according to her father was about five months in the making, revolved around soccer. Jim Grupp could not recall exactly when the passion set in, albeit it has been a while. Though Jessica was recruited by the Navy’ division I soccer team coach, her father explained there are no guarantees she will make the team. Typically colleges recruit athletes by offering them scholarships. Since all Navy tuition is paid by the government all plebes, as first year midshipmen are known, will try out on the same level. Her father was confident but cautioned training can be grueling, plus there is always risk of injury or a bad day. For now, bad days or good, Jessica’s parents would not know. She is spending the next six weeks going through the mandatory training required of all Navy inductees. After successful completion of the six weeks Jessica, along with the rest of the 2011 class, will be officially recognized as a plebe. As for the rest, her parents said the young woman’s face begged the question as she waited to walk through the doors of Alumni Hall, “Did I do the right thing?”