Clark Fork High School graduate and co-salutatorian Nathan Shelton has been crushing goals since he left Bonner County in July and it looks like he won’t be slowing down any time soon.

Just a month after graduating in June, Nathan left for Navy boot camp and after 10 weeks of intense training, he graduated in late September. Out of the 1,006 recruits in his graduating class, Nathan ranked in the top 3% based on his academic, physical and training assessments. He also received honorable recommendations from multiple recruit division commanders who witnessed his hard work in boot camp.

Out of that top 3% — roughly 30 recruits — Nathan was again honored for his outstanding work ethic as he was chosen to receive the Military Order of the World Wars Merit Award.

“This also meant that our family was invited to sit in the VIP section at graduation and attend a reception afterwards and we also got a few extra perks, like getting to hug our sailor before graduation,” said Jennifer Shelton, Nathan’s mom. “We are so incredibly proud of him!”

Another honor Jennifer said was special for both Nathan and the rest of the family was that the guest officer presenting the award and speaking at graduation happened to be the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy, who is the highest enlisted person in the Navy.

“This was a rare occasion and an honor that Nathan will treasure always,” Jennifer said.

To top it all off, Jennifer said some recruits graduate from bootcamp with the Rank E1, others strive for E2, which is an apprentice. However, Nathan worked hard and was able to graduate as an E3 airman and proudly wears three green stripes on his left sleeve.

As Nathan looks forward to what the future holds, there’s no doubt he continues to remember the words he told his fellow classmates at his high school graduation.

“We’ve come a long way and we still have a long way to go,” he said. “Don’t get caught up and forget to enjoy the journey. Work hard but don’t forget to relax. Keep your goals in sight but don’t be afraid to take small steps. Don’t look back and regret, but don’t forget your history. And remember: Drive fast and take chances.”

After graduating from boot camp, Nathan moved to Pensacola, Fla., to complete the next steps in his training to be an air rescue swimmer and helicopter aircrewman.