Chattooga High School’s Cooper Hampton Receives Appointment to U.S. Air Force Academy

Chattooga High School senior Cooper Hampton has received an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, one of the nation’s most selective military institutions, marking a significant achievement in his academic and personal journey.

Hampton will join the Academy as a member of the Class of 2030, placing him among a select group of the nation’s top young leaders chosen to begin one of the country’s premier officer training programs.

An Eagle Scout, Hampton has consistently demonstrated leadership, discipline, and a strong commitment to service—qualities that align with the Academy’s rigorous standards. He plans to pursue a career as a pilot, a goal that began taking shape in the sixth grade at Lyerly Elementary School after learning about the Academy from a teacher and Army veteran, Mrs. Carr.

Continuing to work toward that goal, Hampton earned his pilot’s license on December 20, 2025. His appointment to the Academy provides a direct pathway toward becoming a commissioned officer and pilot in the United States Air Force.

Admission to the Academy is highly competitive. Each year, thousands of applicants seek appointment, with only a limited number selected. Hampton secured a Congressional nomination from former U.S. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene in 2025 and met extensive academic, leadership, and physical fitness requirements, including completion of the Candidate Fitness Assessment.

His application included evaluations from multiple teachers, along with letters of recommendation from Chattooga County School District Superintendent Michelle Heile and retired Colonel Jimmy Lenderman—a former Marine helicopter pilot who flew Marine One during his military career. Hampton also received a recommendation by Air Force Colonel Robert Pahl.

Hampton’s appointment recognizes not only his past accomplishments, but also his potential to meet the demands and challenges of the Academy. The program is designed to develop future officers through a combination of academic excellence, military training, physical development, and character education. Cadets are expected to maintain high standards of conduct, physical fitness, and academic performance throughout their time at the Academy.

As part of the next steps in the process, Hampton will officially report for in-processing in June 2026, when he begins his training at the Academy in Colorado Springs.

Outside the classroom, Hampton has been involved in a wide range of activities, including track, tennis, and cross country. He is also a member of the Chattooga High School State Champion welding team alongside Skyler Ward and Landon Dawson. The team recently earned first place in the SkillsUSA Welding Fabrication State Competition and is set to compete at the national level in June 2026 in Atlanta.

Hampton is a graduate of the Leadership Chattooga Class of 2025, further reflecting his commitment to personal growth and community involvement. He is the son of Dwayne and Joy Hampton, and his younger brother, Preston, attends Lyerly Elementary.

Hampton’s appointment to the Air Force Academy is a testament to years of hard work, determination, and dedication. As he prepares to take this next step, he represents the very best of Chattooga High School and sets an example for others to follow.