By By Fredie Carmichael/The Meridian Star
July 4, 2001
Paul Gower was at his girl friend's house when his cell phone started ringing.
He thought it was just another call. Then U.S. Rep. Chip Pickering spoke, telling him that he had been accepted to the U.S. Military Academy Prep School at West Point.
Gower is one of eight Mississippians to be accepted into the prestigious school. If he maintains at least a "C" average during his 10 months, then he will be awarded freshman status at West Point next year.
On July 13, Gower will report to Fort Monmouth, N.J. for his first day at the historic academy, which is celebrating its 200th anniversary this year. He plans to one day graduate from the academy, joining an elite group of West Point alumnus that include the likes of Dwight D. Eisenhower, Norman Swartzkopf, and Douglas McArthur.
Pickering, who nominated Gower, said that being accepted to West Point is truly an honor.
Gower is a recent graduate of Clarkdale Attendance Center where he was received the school's leadership, boy's soccer leadership, American Government and Larry Clark sportsmanship awards. He was also a member of both the golf and soccer teams at Clarkdale.
Fredie Carmichael is a staff writer for The Meridian Star., call him at 693-1551, ext. 3228 or E-mail him at fcarmichael@themeridianstar.com.