Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
LA GRULLA, Texas — Hiram Flores, a 2021 graduate of Grulla High School, has achieved a historic milestone for his school and community, graduating from the United States Military Academy at West Point and beginning his career as a U.S. Army officer.
Flores, 23, graduated from West Point on May 23, 2026, with honors and earned a Bachelor of Science in Law and Legal Studies. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army and will serve as an Aviation Officer.
He is the first Grulla High School student to graduate from a U.S. military academy.
Flores will report to Fort Rucker, Alabama, where he is scheduled to begin flight school. “My experience at West Point was challenging but nonetheless the most rewarding opportunity I’ve ever had,” Flores said. He credited the academy’s combination of military training, demanding academics, and physical and mental challenges with shaping his understanding of leadership.
“It taught me the importance of discipline, character, and trust while also imparting a lifelong appreciation for teamwork and leadership,” he said.
Flores graduated as salutatorian of Grulla High School’s Class of 2021. While in high school, he participated in wrestling, band, JROTC, and several student organizations.
He credited retired U.S. Army Capt. Jose M. Sanchez, his JROTC instructor, and his uncle, combat veteran U.S. Army Capt. Ezequiel “Zeke” Moya Jr., with influencing his decision to pursue West Point.
Flores said Sanchez guided him through the academy’s demanding application requirements, while Moya first introduced him to the possibility of attending West Point and inspired him through his military service.
His wrestling coaches, Coach Sepulveda and Coach Ozuna, also helped develop the physical and mental resilience that Flores said remained important throughout his academy experience.
Flores also pointed to his older sister, Damaris Flores, the 2018 Grulla High School valedictorian, as an important influence.
“My sister is the most hard-working individual I’ve ever known, and her work ethic and example have always inspired me to do my best,” Flores said.
He is the son of Tony and Lorena Flores. Flores and his family expressed appreciation to the teachers, counselors, coaches, and mentors who supported him and also recognized the importance of faith throughout his 47-month West Point experience.
For students considering ambitious goals of their own, Flores offered a message centered on personal responsibility and perseverance.
“Strive to be the best version of yourself every day, through every decision, no matter what challenges you face,” he said.
Flores encouraged young people to maintain high standards, learn from both success and failure, and not allow difficult challenges to intimidate them.
His journey from Grulla High School to West Point now stands as a milestone for his community and an example for other Rio Grande Valley students considering military service and leadership.
