June 9, 2005, – The U.S. Coast Guard Academy has offered Seaman Scott Ledee, a native of St. Thomas, a Coast Guard Recruiting Initiative for the Twenty-First Century Scholarship.
In a few weeks he will become a cadet, attend New Mexico Military Institute, and follow a prescribed curriculum for one year consisting of English composition, general chemistry, higher math, U.S. history, military science and swimming. He will then be appointed to the academy provided he meets the program requirements and remains physically qualified.
One of Ledee's mentors, Lt. Alvin Dalmida Jr. said, "Ledee is having a super ride in the Coast Guard. In 2003, he met a Coast Guard COMPASS outreach team and subsequently enlisted, graduated from basic training in May 2004, and reported to Coast Guard Cutter PAMLICO (WLIC-80) in New Orleans, La. Now he is offered a scholarship worth approximately $275,000."
While serving on the cutter, his ship re-positioned navigation aids that had been damaged or moved by Hurricane Ivan. In the past few months, Ledee became the third Virgin Islander to receive an academy scholarship.
PAMLICO's Commanding officer Chief Warrant Officer David Leewald's letter of recommendation states: "While serving aboard one of the most operationally demanding units in the Coast Guard, Seaman Scott Ledee has earned my complete confidence and has my highest recommendation for admission into the U. S. Coast Guard Academy. He is an extremely mature young man whose intelligence, leadership qualities and personable demeanor make him an ideal candidate for consideration to become a Coast Guard Officer".
His supervisor Chief Petty Officer Tate McDaniel made similar comments: "Seaman Ledee is doing outstanding aboard the cutter. He is a very bright individual and has an outstanding work ethic. He will be fully supported in whatever he decides to do in the CG by this command and his shipmates. We could use more young men just like him!"
His parents, Evelyn & Gregory Ledee wrote, "Scott is very excited about this opportunity. We appreciate all your help and support. This is a great opportunity for him to excel and show his God given abilities and to become the leader that we know he is and can be in the Coast Guard. Thank you so much for all your help to guide him toward this path for a bright future and a future leader in the U.S. Coast Guard."
Ledee is a 2003 honors graduate of All Saints Cathedral High School and is currently on St. Thomas vacationing with his parents.