San Antonio Corridor News

Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz of Texas' 15th Congressional District has recently announced the nomination of students for military service academies across the United States. In a statement, she expressed her pride in the nominees and their commitment to serve their country.

De La Cruz stated, "I am proud to announce nominees to our nation's military service academies. In an all-volunteer military, it takes bravery, determination, and a true love of country to sign up for service. The young men and women nominated in TX-15 have what it takes to succeed both academically and in uniform. I am proud to call them constituents and look forward to their service and success in the academies and beyond."

The following students have been nominated by Congresswoman De La Cruz, based on the recommendation of an independent academy advisory committee:

U.S. Military Service Academy (West Point, NY):

- James Sin from South Texas ISD World Scholars in Edinburg, TX

- Nathanial Walborg from Marion High School in Marion, TX

- Aaron Arambula from Marion High School in Marion, TX

- Giovanni Garcia from Edinburg North High School in Edinburg, TX

- Ryan Knecht from McAllen High School in McAllen, TX

U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis, MD):

- Javier Lopez from Sharyland Pioneer High School in McAllen, TX

- Jessica Long from Edinburg North High School in Edinburg, TX

- Liberty Smith from Founders Classical Academy of Schertz in La Vernia, TX

- Pedro Rios-Alvarez from IDEA Pharr College Prep in Hidalgo, TX

U.S. Air Force Academy (Colorado Springs, CO):

- Leilani Touchstone from Floresville High School in Floresville, TX

- Ella Rose Sandoval from Sharyland Advanced Academic Academy in Mission, TX

- Aaron Garza from Edinburg High School in Edinburg, TX

U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (Kings Point, New York):

- Fredrich Buquel from Sharyland High School in Mission, TX

Receiving a Congressional nomination is a significant step in the admissions process for military service academies, with the exception of the U.S. Coast Guard. The final selections and appointments will be made by the respective academies before the start of classes in June 2024.

The application, nomination, and selection process for military service academies is known to be one of the most rigorous college admissions processes in the United States. These students have shown exceptional dedication and commitment to their country and are deserving of this recognition.

Click this link to access more information: https://delacruz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=545