"This just shows you what a lot of hard work and effort can do for you," Chandler said. "This took many hours of hard work and dedication on Ethan's part as well as the support of his family and the school."
"West Point is an outstanding educational institution where the best of this country go to prepare for a career in military service," Chandler added. "This appointment is a tremendous opportunity for this young man, and I applaud his efforts and wish him success."
In a time when higher education costs continue to rise and families struggle to fund their children's education, Chandler said Johnson's hard work had earned him and educational opportunity worth more than $250,000.
Chandler jokingly told Johnson that now the hard part begins, but said because of his discipline and dedication it would be no problem for Johnson.
Johnson said attending the academy was a goal for a long time and he looked forward to the opportunity.
"I have a passion for history, and I think now, more than ever, America's military needs men and women who have a broad view of time and an appreciation for historical context and world cultures," Johnson said. "I want to be ready and prepared to protect our country with every talent I've been given."
Johnson is the third West Jessamine student to have been appointed to West Point. The school has had one student, Nathan Liversedge in 2007, appointed to the U. S. Naval Academy.
Johnson ranks 10th in his class with a 4.0 weighted GPA. He served as junior class president and is currently a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, D.A.R.E., Beta Club, the National Honor Society, the First Alliance Church youth group and is also the captain of the West Jessamine golf team.
He is the son of Dr.'s Nancy and Chuck Johnson of Nicholasville.
