Reaching out to your FFR isn't mandatory, but it's good to express your interest in the Academy early. I understand that an FFR interview is on the West Point timeline, but there is actually a possibility that your FFR will never interview you. However, he will likely be on one or more on your Congressional or Senatorial boards (mine is only on my Congressional board and I have not interviewed with him yet, as my Congressional interview is this upcoming Saturday).
When emailing an FFR, something that helped me is asking questions that pertain to improving my file. He was eager to answer those, as asking for tips is a clear expression of interest in West Point. "If I get into SLE but Boys State overlaps with both sessions, which should I attend?" Is an example of one of these types of questions.
Since your FFR will probably show up on one or more of your interview boards, I don't think you need to tell him that much about yourself yet. He'll be able to open up your MOC file if he's on a board and read the essay you wrote, provided your MOC requires one. The important thing is that he remembers your name when he cracks that file open and realizes that you're next up for an interview for an MOC nomination.
Hope this helped!
