U.S. Representative Trent Kelly has announced the appointment of Henry Gaschk from Olive Branch, Mississippi, to the U.S. Air Force Academy. Members of Congress have the opportunity each year to nominate candidates for admission to U.S. service academies, which are institutions designed to train young individuals as leaders in the U.S. Armed Forces while providing them with a high-quality education.
Gaschk is currently a senior at Lewisburg High School and has shown excellence in various areas including academics, athletics, and leadership. He has been the captain of his varsity soccer team and received several honors such as Randy West Mississippi State All-Star, MHSAA North Mississippi All-Star, and Offensive Player of the Year award.
Beyond his sports achievements, Gaschk is dedicated to community service through volunteering with organizations like Mississippi Project Package and The Arc of Northwest Mississippi. Academically, he has been recognized as a National Merit Semi-Finalist and achieved top subject averages across multiple disciplines.
His leadership roles include serving as an officer in the National Honor Society, being part of the Olive Branch Mayor’s Youth Council, and acting as lead gatekeeper for the Southaven Parks Department. Additionally, he participates in English Honor Society, Chess Club, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
“I’m excited to attend the United States Air Force Academy because it offers the opportunity to challenge myself academically and physically while preparing me for a career in the military,” Gaschk stated. He plans to study Systems Engineering with aspirations of becoming a pilot or pursuing a master’s degree with an eventual goal of working in Air Force contracting.
