The following article appeared May 23, 2011 in Volunteer Now, an online CAP magazine

Shortly after graduating from Maui High School with a 4.1 GPA, Rey Molina will report to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, where he will be a member of the Class of 2015.

Molina, 18, accepted the appointment to the prestigious four-year institution after receiving congressional nominations from both Sen. Daniel Akaka and Rep. Mazie Hirono.

"My personal heroes are my parents. Their selflessness and love for our family are unbelievable. From their actions, I have learned the importance of setting priorities and making sacrifices. These characteristics have played a large part in my life. I truly thank them for everything they have done” said Molina.

According to West Point literature out of 12,000 applications, 4,000 are nominated, 2,500 are found fully qualified, and 1,180 are admitted.  Candidates are judged on their academic and athletic achievements, their demonstrated leadership ability and character. To gain admission, West Point candidates must also pass a fitness test, undergo a thorough medical examination and be personally recommended by a member of Congress from their home district.

Molina is a member of the Civil Air Patrol's Kihei Composite Squadron, which meets at the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Lodge in Kihei on Thursday evenings. He credits the CAP Cadet Program with teaching him about aircraft and flying. He also learned radio-communication skills, and began developing leadership skills.

"We are proud of Cadet Airman First Class Molina’s many accomplishments and especially his appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point," said CAP Kihei Composite Squadron Commander Capt Ed Zayas. "I believe he will do very well in this great endeavor.”

While taking Advanced Placement physics, calculus, computer science, literature and economics at Maui High, Molina also found time to participate in the National Honor Society, Key Club, Math League and baseball. 

He is the son of Aniceto and Aurora Molina of Kihei.