Two seniors from Warsaw R-IX’s graduating class of 2025 have earned appointments to two of the nation’s most prestigious military academies. Jaxson Deckard has been appointed to the U.S. Air Force Academy, while Drake Murrell has been appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy.
This distinguished honor was secured before February 1 — a rare and significant milestone according to Grace Townsend, representative for Congressman Mark Alford. Both Deckard and Murrell received principal nominations from Congressman Alford and additional nominations from Senator Josh Hawley, highlighting their exceptional qualifications.
Coming from a rural Benton County community with a high school graduating class of just 86 students, Deckard and Murrell’s appointments are a source of immense pride for Warsaw R-IX School. Notably, these appointments mark a historic achievement for the school, as this is the first appointment to a military academy since Tyler Burke's appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy in 2007.
“These appointments are a testament to Jaxson and Drake’s leadership, academic excellence, and commitment to service,” said Mr. Morrison, principal at Warsaw High School. “Securing early appointments with principal nominations represents a rare achievement, and we couldn’t be more proud of them and how well they represent our district.”
As appointees to the Air Force and Naval Academies, both young men will embark on rigorous academic and military training as they prepare to serve as future leaders in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Both men will be recognized at a school assembly on Wednesday, March 26th at 2:30pm in the afternoon. They will also be recognized at an Academy Appointee Reception hosted by Congressman Mark Alford’s office in April before reporting to their respective academies in June.
Their story embodies the tradition, pride, and pursuit of excellence that the Warsaw R-IX District champions. The community looks forward to their continued success as they represent Warsaw and the state of Missouri with distinction and honor.