Jordan Stallings is braving military service following his Bethel Christian Academy graduation.
After wrapping up his high school career Friday night, Stallings, 18, is looking forward to the travel opportunities the U.S. Marine Corps can offer.
“I’ve had family that was in there and that’s where God’s calling me,” said Stallings, who plans to focus on security forces. “It’s just always something I’ve liked to do ... (there are) more opportunities as far as going to service.”
He hopes for a 20-year stint, getting a college degree in law enforcement and taking in the foreign sights.
He is the oldest of three boys whose parents support his decision. “They don’t really want me to go,” Stallings said, “but they support me and want the best for me.” He will start boot camp in November at Parris Island, S.C.
Stallings began school at Bethel, left in the ninth grade for North Lenoir High School, then went to South Lenoir High School for basketball. He returned to Bethel his junior year and was part of this year’s basketball team that placed third in the state.
An intimate group crossed the Bethel stage Friday night. Three will enter the service, one will complete a mission trip and all others are going to college.
“(The closeness) could be because of the size of the class; they’re like brothers and sisters,” said Bethel Headmaster Doug Phillips. “It’s not 222, it’s 22. They know each other, they’ve prayed with each other, cried with each other, laughed together, played sports together. It’s really a close group, a senior family almost.”
Before the ceremony, teachers reminisced with the students they’ve known since kindergarten.
Stallings said graduating was bittersweet.
“I’ve got a bunch of memories with my buddies here, so that’s special,” he said. “I’m going to miss high school … but I’m ready to move on … and see what else is in store for me.”
Stallings credits his teachers for keeping him on track academically, and his family and Christian role models for helping him cross the finish line. In return, he wishes to leave a positive impression on the younger Bethel students.
“I hope to leave a big impact on the kids here as far as sports and trying to be like Christ,” Stallings said. “I hope I’ve done a good job of that for the little kids.”
Jessika Morgan can be reached at 252-559-1078 or at jessika.morgan@kinston.com. Follow her on Twitter @JessikaMorgan.
Bethel Christian Academy 2013 Graduation
May 31, 7 p.m.
22 graduates
Valedictorian: Austin Croom
Co-Salutatorians: Tyler Harper and Lauren Hooten
School Established: 1970
Headmaster: Doug Phillips
