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GMC Prep Battalion Commander Earns Appointment to U.S. Naval Academy

GMC Prep Battalion Commander Receives Appointment to the United States Naval Academy

GMC Prep School senior Ethan Tolentino has received an appointment to the United States Naval Academy (USNA). He’s only the second GMC Prep School student to do so.

Tolentino visited the Naval Academy for a STEM camp there the summer before his freshman year at GMC Prep School. Attending a camp far from home wasn’t something Tolentino looked forward to, but once arriving at the USNA campus, he had a change of heart. He says after that summer, his goal has been to one day return to the Naval Academy as a midshipman in the class of 2025.

“I feel truly blessed to be given the opportunity to learn at one of the most prestigious institutions in the nation, and to later serve my country as an officer in the United States Navy,” Tolentino said. “I will use the knowledge I’ve gained at GMC Prep School to overcome the challenges that await me at the Naval Academy. I understand that this new adventure will be difficult, but it will allow me to grow into an individual who can hopefully make a positive impact on the future of our country.”

Tolentino currently serves as the Battalion Commander at GMC Prep School, leading his peers at morning formation, parades, and throughout the school year on campus.

“Ethan Tolentino is an outstanding young man,” said Lieutenant General William B. Caldwell, IV, President of Georgia Military College. “We are very excited that our top Cadet and Valedictorian at the Prep School is headed to the Naval Academy to serve our country. We are grateful to our friends at NewDay USA for their continued support of our students at GMC Prep School. They will be great role models and resources for Ethan when he heads to the Academy this summer.”

At the Naval Academy, Tolentino plans to study Computer Science and make a career in the Navy as a Software Engineer.

“Ethan has worked so hard during his time at GMC Prep School,” said GMC Prep School Principal, Col. Pam Grant. “He’s got a great work ethic and is a true leader. I know he will excel at the Naval Academy, and we are just all so proud of him and all that he has accomplished. I know he will go on to be a great leader in the U.S. Navy.”

Tolentino will begin his journey at the U.S. Naval Academy this summer.

“I am proud and honored to be a part of the midshipmen class of 2025 and to say, ‘Go Navy! Beat Army!,’” Tolentino said.