Michael S. Walks

Army National Guard Pvt. Michael S. Walks has graduated from basic military training at Fort Benning, Columbus, Ga., under the Split Option Training Program. The program allows high school students between their junior and senior years to attend and complete the Army National Guard or Reserve six-week basic training program during the summer of their junior years.

During basic training, the recruit receives instruction in drill and ceremonies, weapons, map reading, tactics, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid, and Army history, values and tradition.

The student attends weekend drills during the senior years of high school until graduation.

After graduating from high school, the recruit serves as a member of the national guard or reserve and attends advanced individual training (AIT) to acquire job skills necessary in a military career specialty.

Walks is the son of Tina and Stephen Walks of Craig.