While many graduating seniors will be celebrating the end of their time at high school and planning for dorm move-in day, Monticello High School graduate William “Liam” Burns III will have already reported to the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs.

Influenced by his grandfather, who served in the Navy, and his uncle, who served in the Army, Burns said, “It was the opportunities for travel, seeing the world, and wanting to do something different,” that made him want to join the service.

Burns first expressed interest in military service during middle school, which concerned his mother, Cheri Burns. 

“I was a little nervous when he first started talking about going into the service,” she said. “I thought maybe he’d change his mind by high school, but he never did.”

His long-standing interest in serving his country solidified into a future plan when he took part in the Air Force Academy’s Summer Seminar program, where he was offered a glimpse into cadet life.

In addition to a full academic review, the application process includes a rigorous physical fitness assessment, a thorough medical examination, multiple essays, and a congressional nomination. 

Burns submitted applications to both of New York’s senators as well as Rep. Marc Molinaro, who ultimately provided his nomination. Once nominated, Burns underwent an in-person interview before a seven-member panel, where he was questioned on his goals, his understanding of the academy’s mission, and what he would do if he wasn’t selected.

“They asked about my goals, how serious I was, and what I’d do if I didn’t get in,” Burns said. “It wasn’t just about academics. They wanted to know what kind of person I am.”

Burns was officially appointed to the Air Force Academy Class of 2029 during Monticello High School’s Senior Awards Ceremony. Lieutenant Colonel Tim Wainwright of the U.S. Air and Space Forces presented the appointment, describing it as one of the most competitive honors in the country.

“Fewer than 1,200 applicants are accepted each year, out of more than 10,000 applications,” Wainwright said. “This prestigious appointment equates to more than a $600,000, four-year full-ride scholarship with intensive military and leadership training.”

He praised Burns’s “success over intense academics, physical fitness, service, and leadership rigors,” and formally welcomed him to the academy.

“On behalf of the United States Air Force Academy and the director of admissions, I am honored to present William Burns with an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy Class of 2029. Congratulations, and welcome to the Long Blue Line.”

When the official appointment letter arrived, his mother was proud—and overwhelmed. 

“We were super excited because there was so much work involved to get to that point,” she said. “He’d been working toward this since his freshman year. But then that moment set in—it’s real. He’s going to be away, and I won’t have the same access to him like I would if he were going to a traditional college.”

At the academy, Burns plans to major in biochemistry. He’s currently deciding between two long-term paths: becoming a general surgeon or pursuing a career as an Air Force pilot.

“Flying is something I’ve never done but always wanted to try,” he said. “I’m also passionate about science. If I can help people as a surgeon, that would be just as rewarding.”

His father, William Burns Jr., said watching Liam take this leap comes with pride, and a touch of nerves. “When he said he wanted to do the military, I told him I’d prefer he didn’t go into the Army or the Marines,” he said. “I’m glad he chose the Air Force. It’s a better fit for him.”

The two have grown especially close in recent years as Liam helped his father in his work, and the thought of sending his son across the country is still sinking in. 

 “We’ve had a good couple of years as he’s grown up,” he said. “We’ve built a tight bond. He’s my sidekick—and I’m going to miss him.”