Middle Tennessee student selected for elite US Navy program

MT. JULIET, Tenn. (WZTV) — A Mt. Juliet High School student has been selected to attend the prestigious Navy Summer Flight Academy.

Jonathan Gerges is one of just 28 students selected nationwide for the intensive eight-week aviation program at Delaware State University. The program, created in 2021, aims to increase diversity in Naval aviation.

At Mt. Juliet High School, Gerges participates in JROTC and plays varsity basketball and soccer.

“Jonathan Gerges has what it takes to be a leader in the field of aviation, and the Navy is honored to play a part in his personal and professional journeys,” says LT Olivia Barrau.

During the Summer Flight Academy, he will receive a minimum of 32 hours of classroom aviation academics and more than 40 hours of flight training. As part of the certification process, Gerges will be required to complete 17 hours of solo flights. This will grant him his FAA Private Pilot’s license and five college credits.

The program takes place from June 12 to August 3.

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