Carman Williams
cwilliams@weatherforddemocrat.com
Michael Palazzolo didn’t decide what he would do after he graduated high school. The government decided for him.
The Weatherford High School senior received a nomination from Congresswoman Kay Granger to attend the United States Merchant Marine Academy in King’s Point, N.Y. He was then appointed to the school by the Merchant Marine Academy.
Palazzolo was presented with a certificate of special recognition by Granger’s Outreach Representative Marcia Etie at Weatherford High School Friday.
Palazzolo knew he would receive the certificate, but he was also surprised to learn he would be given a flag that was flown over the nation’s capitol in his honor.
Michael’s father, Joe Palazzolo, said he had “tremendous pride” when he learned of his son’s appointment.
“It’s something that he’s wanted to do for about three years, so obviously we’re very proud,” he said.
Gail Palazzolo, Michael’s mother, said her son’s love of the military was practically inborn.
“I remember when he was 5, running around in camouflage pants and an army hat,” she said. “I was like, ‘You’re not going into the military, Michael,’ and he’d say, ‘Oh, yes I am.’’’
As a mother, Gail admitted she was a little nervous about her son leaving for King’s Point.
“We visited the school and we know it’s a good thing. It’s exciting and scary — I don’t know about him, but for Mom,” she said.
Michael said it was a “big relief” when he received the appointment.
He had to apply to both the Merchant Marine Academy and to Granger, and competed for the appointment with the other 1,000 to 2,500 high school seniors who try to get into King’s Point every year.
“They only accept 300 applicants at the most every year, and this year they only took 285,” Palazzolo said. “So I was really lucky to be chosen.”
Those who know Palazzolo don’t think luck had much to do with it. His parents and teachers described him as focused and hardworking, and Etie agreed.
“That’s in all areas of his life, not just academically,” Etie said. “It takes a well-rounded individual with a strong need to serve their country.”
Palazzolo received his orders from the Merchant Marine Academy May 19, and will report to King’s Point July 10.
He plans on majoring in Maritime Operations and Technology, which means he will graduate with his third mate’s license and be certified as a Qualified Member of the Engine Department, which is the highest unlicensed position in the engine room.
As part of his schooling, Palazzolo will spend almost an entire year on board ship, getting hands-on training at sea.
Unlike the other military academies which follow a traditional four-year plan, the Merchant Marine Academy rolls a four-year education into three years by continuing into the summer months and spending an extended period on the water.
After graduating from King’s Point, Palazzolo plans on serving his commission with the United States Marines, then rejoining the Merchant Marines.
“My dad and grandparents were in the military,” Palazzolo said. “I guess it just stuck with me.”
Palazzolo is grateful to his family and friends for their support, to friend’s of the family, the Tutinis, for telling him about King’s Point and investing their time in him, and to Granger for her nomination.
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May 24, 2008
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