Cooper,

You have worked so hard in the classroom and on the field. You are so loved, and it is because you are an amazing young man. You have a kind heart, an incredible work ethic, and a way of connecting with people that is really special. No matter who someone is or where they come from, you always find common ground. We are so proud of you and so excited for your next chapter. Looking back at your life, which started at your forever home, Yokota Air Base, it is amazing how much you have already experienced.

Your first big trip was to Tokyo Disney when you were just one month old. Since then, you have explored Tokyo with friends, had countless bowls of Ichiran Ramen with Wellons and Rhyne clan, visited Hiroshima and Nagasaki, been to the USS Arizona, walked the Maginot Line, stood on every major beach in Normandy, flown an airplane, had a one on one kicking session with NFL kicker Tress Way, played soccer and football all over Europe and Japan, driven on the autobahn, released baby sea turtles in Bali, snowboarded in Japan and Europe with our Yokota Family, surfed off the coast of San Diego with your best friend Ben, cheered on your brother and sister from the sidelines, cooked amazing steaks for friends and teachers, flown in a C-130 and UH-1, taken a selfie with the Mona Lisa, enjoyed an Iftar meal in Kuwait, stood at the bottom of Big Ben, eaten thousands of pizzas, sailed the world on cruise ships, stuck your hands in a kangaroos pouch in Australia, been to an OU Texas game (Boomer Sooner), won a High School Football Championship, taken the time to talk to teachers, friends and coaches who have made a difference in your life….you have soaked up the ‘special experiences’ and made time for ‘simple moments.’

But as amazing as all of that is, what matters most to us is not just where you have been, but who you have become. You are kind, driven, and someone people are naturally drawn to. Dad and I and your family, friends and fans all around the world are rooting for you as you head to Pacific University, OR…and wear the football helmet again, this time as a Pacific Boxer.

Wherever life takes you next, keep being yourself, keep working hard, and keep showing up the way you always have. 

We love you Cooper.

#onceapantheralwaysapanther

#yokotafamily

#stuttgart family

#respectthekicker

#goboxers

#gocooper

#22

DoDEA

Graduates