WASHINGTON, DC – John “Jack” Mellgard, of Clearfield County, will soon join the class of 2016 at the U.S. Naval Academy, according to U.S. Representative Glenn `GT’ Thompson, R-Howard, who nominated him. Jack accepted a fully qualified appointment to the Academy last year, but after breaking his foot, was unable to join the previous year’s class.
“Through continued hard work in his post-graduate studies, and despite the setback of a broken foot, Jack is more deserving than ever to accept this appointment and serve his country,” said Thompson. “Jack is well qualified to join the Academy and I am glad he will finally be able to take advantage of this tremendous opportunity.”
The son of Reverend and Mrs. J. Robert Mellgard, Jack earned a cumulative GPA of 9.489 and ranked 5th in the 2011 graduating class at Clearfield Area High School. Following graduation, Jack enrolled at The Hill School, in Pottstown, PA, where he was named an Advanced Placement (AP) Scholar with Distinction.
At Clearfield Area High School, Jack was captain of the Football, Basketball, and Track and Field teams, and served as President of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. While at The Hill School, Jack joined the Wrestling team, which went to the National Preparatory School League Championships, and the Football team, on which he was named a Mid-Atlantic Prep League All-star.
“I am proud to have supported Jack’s nomination, and wish him the very best as he goes on to join the talented men and women who have the honor of serving in our nation’s service academies,” Thompson added.
Jack has long been involved in extracurricular and community activities, including the Boy Scouts of America, through which he achieved the highly regarded Eagle Scout Rank and God and County Award. He was also a Leader and Organizer for the Youth Group at Clearfield Presbyterian Church.
Jack’s paternal grandparents are Mary Mellgard and the late George Mellgard of Pittsburgh and maternal grandparents are Elsie Bell of Bowie, Maryland, and the late F. Allen Bell.