Midlothian high schooler excels in Marine Corps academy

A North Texas high schooler with an already impressive track record as a student-athlete has now captured the attention of the U.S. Marine Corps.

The senior at Midlothian Heritage High School is one of a select few across the country selected for the competitive Semper Fidelis All-American Program.

The award is for Talon Berg's achievements at the Marine Corps’ rigorous Battles Won Academy

“It gave me hope and dreams to pursue sports, academics and helping people in general,” Talon said.

Video of last summer's event on YouTube shows the intensity of the competition. It is open to fewer than 100 students each summer in Washington.

"Talon is far more than he understands he is,” said Lance Berg, Talon’s dad. “Lot of parents might say it, but he is one of the most exceptional people I know."

The academy is part of the Semper Fidelis All-American Program. It recognizes student-athletes who have shown a determination to succeed in all aspects of their life.

"They have an opportunity to bond with like-minded people and form a team that sometimes can be the catalyst to push you to achieve more than you would have on your own,” said Major Ruth Kehoe with the Marine Corps.

"The biggest thing they stressed in this program was a fighting spirit,” Talon said. “Doesn't matter what we do. Doesn't matter how many things we involve ourselves in. We're always going to find a way to overcome that adversity."

At 16 years old, Talon is the district's sack leader on the varsity football team. He's also on the wrestling team. He will graduate this year with advanced college courses. His parents believe the Marine Corps program was the perfect road to follow.

"I think Talon knows who he is,” said his mother, Ratana Berg. “He's a great person and very strong in his faith. And what makes Talon is because of his faith. Very proud of him for that."