Blake Abrecht began classes at the U.S. Air Force Academy in 2010 after graduating from Farmington High School.
Four years later, Abrecht has graduated from the academy in a unique position -- ranked first in his class academically and sixth overall. Cadets are ranked for academics, military and athletics at the academy.
"It is a surreal feeling thinking about the start of basic training four years ago," Abrecht said. "There were times when it seemed like it would never end."
Marcey Abrecht, Abrecht's mother, said she is proud not only of her son but also of Arkansas.
"He is from a small town and a public school," Marcey said. "He went on to be the No. 1 academically at a fabulous institution."
Abrecht was ranked first for most of his academic career at the academy, Marcey said. She said he made a 4.0 grade point average five out of his eight semesters. He received his diploma from Vice President Joe Biden.
The average cumulative grade point average for Air Force Academy cadets is 2.98, according to the academy's website.
The academy also named Abrecht the outstanding graduate in systems engineering, Marcey said.
There were 995 cadets who graduated in the 2014 class from the academy March 28, according to its website. All graduates have at least a five-year commitment to the Air Force following graduation.
Those who enter pilot training have a 10-year commitment after earning their wings.
Combat system operators, combat rescue officers and special tactics officers have a six-year commitment after training.
Abrecht's next stop is graduate school at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the Engineering Systems Division in August. After two years, he plans to start jet pilot training in Wichita Falls, Texas.
Abrecht's father graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1985. The Air Force Academy and West Point are rival schools.
"My dad always supported my decision, but there is always a running joke about which academy is better," Abrecht said.
Metro on 06/25/2014