Phil Hoskins, principal at Fairfield Jr.-Sr. High School, believes it's the first time any student from the school has ever been accepted to West Point.

"She is a diligent, talented young lady who matches her abilities with hard work. When given a task, you know it's going to get done," Hoskins said.

And get it done, she did.

Marla Carlson, a teacher at Nappanee Elementary, says her daughter "did it all by herself," starting with completing an online application.

"She told me what she did and I said, 'You did what?' I hit the panic button. But the more she's shared, and the more we learn about all the opportunities, it's phenomenal. We're so proud of her," Carlson said.

Ashli's father, Russ, co-owns a local fertilizer company. He was a solider in the Vietnam War. He has four sons, but it's his daughter who's heading to boot camp 50 miles north of New York City in three weeks.

"She's daddy's girl, but won't admit to that," her mother laughed.

Jim Bishop, a West Point field representative, said candidate evaluation is based on excellence in academics, athletics, leadership and community service.

The nomination by U.S. Rep. Mark Souder sealed the deal, he said.

"Almost 14,000 people apply each year, and only about 1,300 get in. That's pretty significant," Bishop said.

The award covers four years of tuition -- for a Bachelor of Science degree -- plus housing, full medical and dental, clothing, training and a personal spending account.

"It's exciting to know the government trusts me enough to pay for my education so I can serve my nation, and help lead my nation," said Ashli, who wants to become a doctor.

Every West Point student receives full scholarship and must serve at least five years of active duty and three years in a Reserve component after graduation. The active duty obligation is the nation's return on the educational investment.

"I'm really honored, but honestly, I'm just ready to go, and see what it's going to be like. It's all starting to come to life for me," Ashli said.