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Uniform News, July 17
0717 UNIFORM NEWS Alec Ruppenthal
Riverside Military Academy Cadet Sgt. Alec H. Ruppenthal

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Air Force Reserve Airman Joshua C. Charlton graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

He is the son of Jeff Charlton of Litany Court, Flowery Branch. Charlton graduated in 2008 from Flowery Branch High School.

He completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

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Riverside Military Academy Cadet Sgt. Alec H. Ruppenthal, an upcoming senior, has been accepted to both the U.S. Military Academy Summer Leaders Seminar at West Point, N.Y., and the U.S. Air Force Academy Summer Seminar.

He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. William Ruppenthal of Gainesville.

The USMA seminar is a weeklong immersion in academic, military and social life for those considering West Point. It includes intense military training and athletic activities. Only about 500 students are selected to attend each session of the seminar.

The Air Force Academy seminar provides seniors with a realistic picture of cadet life. Students are evaluated and selected on a "whole person concept" of academics, athletics, leadership experience and extracurricular activities.
They attend classes and participate in a variety of physical fitness activities.

Ruppenthal received the Georgia Certificate of Merit for his outstanding academic achievement. He was also a recipient of the JROTC Varsity Athletic Ribbon. He participates as a member of the cross country team, swim team and varsity baseball team at RMA.

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The Georgia Chamber announced that Maj. Gen. (Ret.) David R. Bockel has been named the new executive director of the Georgia Military Affairs Coordinating Committee. Bockel, a 37-year veteran of the U.S. Army, will assume his new role in October.

"Our state is fortunate to have a strong network of military facilities, home to many Georgia residents, that significantly contribute to our state's economy by providing thousands of jobs and by broadening the tax base," said Bockel. "We must continue to work to get both public and private sector support for these military bases to keep them here in Georgia, while at the same time seek business opportunities for these communities to attract businesses and grow our state's defense industry among others."

"It is truly an honor to serve Georgia in this new capacity and I look forward to the work we have ahead to keep our state both business-friendly and military-friendly."

"Gen. Bockel is exactly the right person for the job and I have full confidence in his ability to excel in his new role and help our military communities grow and prosper," said Georgia Chamber President and CEO Chris Clark.

Bockel retired from the Army Reserve in 2003 after a 37-year military career, including a tour in Vietnam with the 25th Infantry Division and the 199th Infantry Brigade. He has served as a commanding general for several Army and Reserve units.

Bockel's civilian career included owning a successful advertising company in Atlanta, as well as being active in numerous business, civic, and military organizations. He currently serves as the Executive Director for the Reserve Officers Association in Washington.

Bockel is married with two children, both Georgia residents.