Service Academies Offer Free Education

Friday August 23, 2002
The five U.S. service academies -- the U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and U.S. Coast Guard Academy -- are making a big effort to recruit top-notch young American 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 academies. No congressional nominations are necessary for admission to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. The Coast Guard Academy offers appointments solely on the basis of an annual nationwide competition.

Each applicant for a nomination must meet certain eligibility requirements. To receive a service academy nomination for the class entering July 2003, you must be a U.S. Citizen of good moral character; at least 17 years of age and not have reached your 23rd birthday on July 1 of 2003; be unmarried; and have no legal obligation to support children or other dependents. For the Merchant Marine Academy you can be up to 24 years of age.

To apply, write to my office stating your interest:

Hon. Benjamin L. Cardin
Attn: Anne Irby
600 Wyndhurst Avenue, Suite 230
Baltimore, MD 21210
E-mail address: anne.irby@mail.house.gov

Letters must contain the applicant's full name, address, phone number, date and place of birth, Social Security number and signature. Also include the name of the applicant's high school, SAT scores, and, if possible, high school rank. Completed applications must be received by Nov. 1, 2002.

The academies consider evidence of character, scholarship, leadership, physical aptitude, medical fitness and motivation in evaluating nominees. To be competitive for a nomination, students should be in the top 20 percent of their high school class, have minimum SAT scores of 1100, and participate in extracurricular activities.

I have appointed an Academy Review Board to evaluate applications and interview applicants. Based on the recommendations of this Board, I will submit a slate of nominations for the Third Congressional District to the various academies. The academies make the final selection from among all nominees. It's important to know that a nomination does not guarantee an offer of appointment.

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 require 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.