Sitting in the cockpit of an A-10 or U-2, is where sophomore Nathan Tracy has always dreamed of being.

Ever since he was little, the military has played a huge role in his life. His father, Matthew Tracy, was in the Air Force for 24 years and both of his grandfathers were enlisted in the Army.

His interest in the Air Force started with his father’s service. Like every young boy, Nathan has always looked up to his dad and wanted to follow in his footsteps.

“I think it would be an honor to follow my dad into the Air Force, not only because I want to be like him, but because I want to be a fighter pilot,” Nathan Tracy said. “The Air Force has been a big part of my life and I would like to keep it that way.”

As an Airman, Nathan would like to become a fighter pilot.

“It may sound a bit cliche, but upon seeing the movie Top Gun as a kid sparked my interest in military planes,” Nathan Tracy said. “Despite the movie having nothing to do with being a fighter pilot, I owe it some credit to first getting me interested and sticking with me ever since.”

Before Nathan can even think about becoming a fighter pilot he must first focus on his grades during his high school career. Nathan must also study for the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery to see if he even qualifies to join the armed forces. He must also get a recommendation from Nebraska’s governor along with a U.S congressman.

If Nathan does in fact qualify to join the armed forces he will go to the United States Air Force Academy. He must also go through Gravity Force Training to see if his body and mind can withstand high levels of G Force being exerted on him while up in the air. Like every other airman he will also have to go through basic training and wilderness survival training.

Nathan owes much of his interest in the armed forces to his father who served in the Air Force. For about eight years of his service he was a professor at the USAFA. During the remainder of his service Matthew Tracy was an intelligence analyst. Matthew was exposed to the military as a young boy.

“My uncle, who served in the Navy for over 20 years, along with my father encouraged me to apply to the Air Force Academy for college,” Matthew Tracy said. “I also remember having the opportunity to talk to two Navy officers at my high school career fair and being very impressed with their professionalism, commitment and demeanor.”

Matthew remembers life in the Air Force. His time in the service allowed him to see many parts of the world. While an serving as an Airman he  made many great friends. Matthew also remembers there being a great sense of teamwork and camaraderie in the Air Force. Matthew wants his son to experience those same aspects.

“I would obviously be very proud of Nathan joining the Air Force, given my experience in the service,” Matthew Tracy said. “However, with that being said, I will be very proud of him following his dreams wherever they may take him, whether that be the Air Force or elsewhere.”

For now, Nathan can focus on doing his best in school and extracurricular activities. He can also discuss different military options with his parents.