From airshows to service academy: Coeur d'Alene High senior takes flight

Coeur d’Alene High School senior Ryan Drappo has earned an appointment to the United States Merchant Marine Academy, joining one of the nation’s most selective federal service academies as he pursues his dream of becoming a naval aviator.

Drappo was selected as one of just 230 appointees from more than 1,800 applicants nationwide. He also received nominations from U.S. Sens. Mike Crapo and Jim Risch, along with Congressman Russ Fulcher.

For Ryan, the path toward aviation started early.

Growing up, he attended airshows and watched fighter jets race across the sky performing high-speed aerial maneuvers. Over time, that fascination turned into a clear goal.

“I have always known I wanted to fly,” Ryan said. “Seeing 'Top Gun: Maverick' in the theater solidified what I wanted to do. I am happy I got the appointment.”

The 17-year-old said attending the appointment ceremony in Boise made the achievement feel even more meaningful.

“It was humbling being at the appointment ceremony,” he said. “You realize you’re surrounded by really smart people who have similar goals and want to serve their country.”

Ryan’s journey through the Coeur d’Alene School District began at Hayden Meadows Elementary School before continuing through Canfield Middle School and Coeur d’Alene High. Along the way, he said educators and staff helped support his goals and encouraged him academically.

He is expected to graduate with a 3.75 GPA, highlighted by strong performance in math, physics and science courses.

The appointment opens the door to a rigorous education and leadership training program that could eventually lead to service as a naval aviator in the U.S. Navy.

Located in Kings Point, N.Y., the United States Merchant Marine Academy combines challenging academics with leadership development and global maritime experience aboard commercial vessels traveling around the world.

“Ideally, I serve 20 years,” Ryan said. “After that, I am considering becoming an airline pilot. Anything involving aviation is where I want to be.”

Ryan said his interest in military service also comes from a deep family connection to the Navy.

“I have a long family history of serving in the Navy,” he said. “More than six generations of my family that we know about have been in the Navy. But I will be the first person in my family to become a naval officer. That is something I am really proud of.”

Ryan also enjoys studying history and genealogy. He said his family lineage includes relatives connected to George Washington, something that has deepened his appreciation for the country’s history and founding principles.

“I am a big history fan,” Ryan said. “I like looking back and seeing where we have come from as a country from the late 1700s to now. I want to continue serving and helping protect the values our country was founded on.

“I want to support the Constitution and serve my country doing something I love."