FALLSBURG – For most high school students, their ultimate goal is to make that final walk across the stage to receive their diploma. However, that isn’t the case for Fallsburg’s Colin Pavese. In lieu of attending graduation with his classmates, he opted to graduate a semester early and enlist in the United States Marine Corp, getting a head start on his lifelong dream.

After enlisting, he entered a 13 week long boot camp at Parris Island, South Carolina. He graduated from boot camp in May and is currently receiving further training at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri. Now ranked as a Private First Class, Colin has chosen to pursue a career as a mechanic in the Marines, following in the footsteps of his grandfather and uncle.

At one point, his ability to serve in the Marines was in jeopardy. About two years ago, Colin suffered a broken femur in a devastating motocross racing accident. After being rushed to the emergency room, he had a titanium rod installed in his leg that extends from his hip to kneecap. Luckily, despite the serious injury, it did not prevent him from serving in the military. Through intense physical therapy and dedicated weight training, he made a remarkable recovery.

“Colin Pavese is a special young man who comes from a great family,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ivan Katz. “Fallsburg looks forward to his future accomplishments as he serves our country with pride and passion.”

The Fallsburg Central School District is proud to honor our men and women in service and wishes Colin the very best of luck as he begins his journey in the United States Marine Corps.