My problem is not particularly with nepotism- It has always happened, and always will whether we like it or not. The question I have, is- was this acievement actually newsworthy? Especially when hiring cadet junior officers at a pretty young age is the norm. And those that have, seemingly earned their positions through scholarship or sponsorship or by just being top of ther class or thereabouts. I by no means imply that this chap is not a high achiever- he most likely is to have been considered for that position. But didn't the editor stop to think that there may by not-so- subtle undertones of nepotism- epecially in this modern age of 'equal opportunities'?. This looks like one of those 'space plugger' stories- slow day at the press, though I imagine that the story will be of some interest in his local area/county press, but a national story??? A couple years from now there would be another story much like this one, and most would have forgotten Eds achievement.
Strange though...I haven't seen anyone mention the fact that he is a product of the modular route. Now that is newsworthy.