A desire to follow in his father's footsteps and become a Naval officer prompted Clayton P. Hahs to apply to the Naval Academy at Annapolis, Md.

He received confirmation of his appointment to the academy earlier this month. Induction is July 1.

"I've wanted to go since I was about in eighth grade," Hahs said. "I want to become a naval officer like my father."

Hahs is the son of David and Candy Hahs. David Hahs served 22 years in the Naval Reserve.

A little research on Hahs' part revealed that the Naval Academy is considered one of the top engineering schools in the nation. "That's what I wanted to major in," he said.

Hahs, a varsity swimmer for Central High School, is on the NCAA's list of recruited athletes, It lists him as having been recruited by the Naval Academy as a swimmer.

But Hahs laughed at the thought that he had been "recruited." Gaining acceptance to the academy is a long process, he said, even for a recruited athlete. "You have to apply just to be a candidate," Hahs said. "There are a lot of steps."

Hahs said he does plan to swim on the Naval Academy's swim team.

Potential students must take physical and academic aptitude tests. They must also be nominated by a U.S. senator or representative.

Every year about 15,000 people apply and only about 1,200 to 1,500 get offers of admission.

Education at the academy is valued at about $196,000 and costs students nothing. They make a five year-commitment to serve in the military.

Hahs is a member of the National Honor Society, Chamber Choir, Beta Club, Lettermen's Club and Student Senate at Central. He ranks sixth among 304 seniors and has been on the A honor roll since he was in fifth grade.

He was a delegate to Missouri Boys' State.

Hahs is a member of the St. Andrew Lutheran Church and the St. Andrew Youth Group. He is also active in the local Young Life organization.

He has worked as an instructor in the Kiwanis' Learn to Swim Program and as a lifeguard.