Airman Mardoyan Ara graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight week program that included military discipline, simulated deployments, physical and combat trainings and drill movements.

He is the son of Adele Birckhead, Roanoke and Jack Mardoyan Waltham, Mass. The airman is a 2010 graduate of Cave Spring High School. He played for the football team His Senior year and Coach Fulton says, “His work on the field was terrific. His efforts helped our school win our first regional title and advance to the state semi-final. Ara to me is the picture of how to make the best of a adapting to your surroundings and thriving. I am confident that whatever Ara puts his mind to he can and will succeed.”

Airman Mardoyan will be pursuing a military career in aerospace propulsion.

Submitted by Natalie Mardoyan