I am pleased by the recent remarks of Sen. Scott Wagner heralding Paul Mango’s “free education” from West Point. Established in 1802 by President Thomas Jefferson, West Point is respected around the world as one of the finest “free educations.”

It was the first school of civil engineering. West Point engineers were largely responsible for building our nation’s early infrastructure. Ranked fourth in colleges and universities in the number of Rhodes Scholars, it is hard to find a graduate who has not played a significant role at any time in our nation’s history.

Cadets receive a “free education” from a world-class international institution where they are trained to perform at the highest levels intellectually, militarily and physically, and where ethical and moral development is emphasized along with selfless service to one’s country.

The “free education” requires graduates to go where they are needed, to serve where they are called. At times in harm’s way. We answer to the call of “duty, honor, country.”

Paul graduated at the top of our class, earning varsity letters in baseball and an Army Ranger Tab. President Ronald Reagan presented him his diploma as one of 56 distinguished graduates of the class of 1981. He served in the elite 82nd Airborne Division and on the front lines during the Cold War.

I salute Paul Mango’s exemplary service at West Point, and as an officer in the United States Army. His “free education” should be emulated.

Jon Hallingstad

Germansville