This year, the U.S. service academies -- the U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and the U.S. Coast Guard Academy -- are making a big effort to recruit top-notch American young men and women who will appreciate an excellent, free education and a chance to serve their country.

Every year, it is my privilege to nominate some of the brightest, most dedicated students in the Third Congressional District to four of the service academies. There are no congressional nominations for the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, which offers appointments solely on the basis of an annual nationwide competition.

Each applicant for a nomination must meet certain eligibility requirements. To receive a military service academy nomination for the class entering July 2000, you should be a high school graduate by July 1, 2000; a U.S. citizen between the ages of 17 and 22; never married; and with no legal obligation to support children or other dependents. For the Merchant Marines you can be up to 24 years of age.

To apply, write to my office stating your interest:

Your letter should contain your full name, address, phone number, date and place of birth, Social Security number and the full names of your parents. Also include the name of your high school, your SAT scores, and, if possible, your high school rank. Completed applications must be received by Nov. 5, 1999.

The academies consider evidence of character, scholarship, leadership, physical aptitude, medical fitness goals and motivation in evaluating each nominee. To be competitive for a nomination, students should be in the top 20 percent of their high school class, have minimum SAT scores of 1150, and participate in extracurricular activities.

I have appointed an Academy Review Board to evaluate applications and interview applicants. Based on the recommendation of this Board, I will submit a slate of nominations for the Third Congressional District to the various academies. A nomination does not guarantee an acceptance; the academies make the final selection from among all nominees.

Attendance at a service academy carries with it great responsibilities. In return for an excellent, free education, anyone attending a service academy must fulfill a service obligation. The Department of Defense academies -- which include the Naval, Air Force and Military academies -- require at least five years of service. The Merchant Marines requires a six-year obligation in either the maritime industry or on active duty as an officer in the armed services. If graduates choose service in the maritime industry, they have a military reserve obligation of eight years. A service academy education is an honor that is afforded the best and brightest of our nation. Important obligations go with that appointment, obligations which are essential to keeping our nation strong. If you are interested in a service academy education, I hope you will contact my office.