Pat Murphy, left, and Elijah Teixeira proudly show their acceptance letters to the United States Military Academy at West Point. They are seniors at James Clemens High School. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – Pat Murphy and Elijah Teixeira at James Clemens High School have been accepted at the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Murphy always wanted to serve his country and “do something special.” After completing his application to West Point, he realized “a viable option for my future.”

Last November, Murphy visited West Point and “experienced the unique atmosphere. I knew it was a place I could see myself spend the next four years.”

Retired Col. Courtney Taylor, Junior ROTC instructor at James Clemens, was a primary mentor for Murphy. “I had been conflicted about what branch I wanted to serve. Through Col. Taylor’s guidance, I chose what I believe is right for me — the Army,” Murphy said.

Pat’s parents are Doug and Deborah Murphy. He is an engineer at Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant. She is a stay-at-home mom. “Without them, I wouldn’t be here today and be a fraction of the person I am,” Pat said.

At James Clemens, Pat has played varsity baseball four years and wrestled two years. He is senior class vice president, National Honor Society member and Boys State delegate.

Teixeira wanted to attend West Point “to receive the best training, education and leadership skills.”

“Col. Taylor has instilled leadership and guidance in me. Colonel did all he could to help during the long, strenuous application process,” Teixeria said.

Retired Sgt. Maj. Samuel McCray also has motivated Teixeira. “He always keeps my head in a positive state of mind. He has been strict from the start and never lets up,” Teixeira said.

His father, Garfield Teixeira; works for AMCOM on Redstone Arsenal and retired after 22 years in the U.S. Army. His mother, Wyketa Teixeira, is a federal agent for the Office of Personnel Management.

“My parents supported my conscious decision of wanting to become a West Point Cadet,” Teixeira said. “With both my parents serving in the military, they have helped me prepared for the type of lifestyle I will soon be living.”