NMCC High School senior joins Army

B.J. "Billy" Phillips signs the paperwork to join the U.S. Army during a recent signing ceremony at New Madrid County Central High School. Watching are Phillips' parents, Toni and B.J. Phillips, and Sgt. Justin Scott with the Cape Girardeau recruiting office. The New Madrid County Central High School senior enlisted in the U.S. Army infantry.

Jill Bock/Standard Democrat

NEW MADRID, Mo. - Family, friends and teachers gathered at New Madrid County Central High School to celebrate with NMCC senior B.J. Phillips as he officially signed the paperwork to join the U.S. Army.

Phillips joined the Army infantry with the signing.

Explaining he comes from a family with a strong military background, Phillips added his thanks to his family for their support.

As part of the signing ceremony, Sgt. Justin Scott, right, presented B.J. "Billy" Phillips with a representation of what will be his signing bonus upon completition of his training and first base assignment.

Jill Bock/Standard Democrat

Phillips said he believed joining the Army would be a good stepping stone for him. He said he eventually would like to seek a career in law enforcement.

Sgt. Justin Scott with the Cape Girardeau recruiting office presented Phillips with a mock check representing a $20,000 signing bonus. According to Scott the first portion of the bonus is paid when Phillips completed his Advanced Individual Training, or AIT, and receives his first duty station.

The rest of the bonus is than awarded in segments.

“I think he is going to be a great NCO someday,” Scott added.