While some reach new heights, one Graves County High School graduate reached new depths after enlisting last year. Ed Bales said his 18-year-old son wanted to go into the U.S. Army, but opted for a small and very difficult part of the military branch. Zach Bales was the only one out of 15 trainees to complete the first phase on his journey to becoming a U.S. Army Engineer Diver. He completed phase one on Oct. 23. Zach is currently stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, awaiting phase two and three of his training, Ed said. A U.S. Army veteran himself, Ed said that he was âextremely proudâ of his son for his persistence and hard work.