Military news for April 5, 2006

Charles Prince joins U.S. Army

Charles S. Prince has joined the U.S. Army under the Delayed Entry Program. The program gives young men and women the opportunity to delay entering active duty for up to one year.

The recruit qualifies for a $20,000 enlistment bonus.

Prince, a 2001 graduate of Russellville High School, reported to Fort Sill at Lawton, Okla., for active duty on Feb. 7.

He is the son of Charles and Jennie Prince of Birmingham.

Recruit graduates basic training

Navy Seaman Recruit Christopher D. Duplantis, son of Debra L. and Johnny D. Duplantis of Hoover, recentlycompleted U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command at Great Lakes, Ill.

During the eight-week program, Duplantis completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety.

Duplantis is a 2005 graduate of Hoover High School.

Airman graduates basic training

Air National Guard Airman 1st Class James E. York has graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.

During the six weeks of training, the airman studied the Air Force mission, organization and military customs and courtesies; performed drill and ceremony marches, and received physical training, rifle marksmanship, field training exercises and special training in human relations.

In addition, airmen who complete basic training earn credits toward an associate degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

York is the son of Kevin and Pat York of Helena.

The airman is a 2003 graduate of Day Spring Academy in Verbena