Nate Peele, a 17-year-old competitive boxer and recent Bridgeport International Academy graduate, has enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, honoring his late grandfather's military legacy.
"My grandfather recently died and I never got to say goodbye to him - so I wanted to do something to make him proud," Nate said.
Supported by his father and recognized by state Sen. Herron Gaston Monday, the motivated teen - who plans to attend college following his military service - said he's excited about the future.
"I want to make a difference while making my family proud."