In the late 1830s, an Ohioan who would go on to be a Civil War hero and President of the United States was appointed to the United States Military Academy at West Point. There was just one issue: he did not know that his father had submitted his name for consideration.
In the late 1830s, an Ohioan who would go on to be a Civil War hero and President of the United States was appointed to the United States Military Academy at West Point. There was just one issue: he did not know that his father had submitted his name for consideration.
Despite this situation – and less than superior grades – Ulysses S. Grant became a cadet and received a degree from West Point, later becoming a pivotal figure in the Union’s efforts against the Confederacy and a renowned President of the United States.
While times have changed and parents are no longer sending their kids without their knowledge, the rich tradition of our military academies has continued with students across the country making the choice to serve. Last week, I got to participate in one of the highest honors I have as a Member of Congress by nominating 13 students to West Point, the Air Force Academy, the Merchant Marine Academy, and the Naval Academy. Students from four counties and 10 different schools were nominated, and now go on to the next step of selection with the academies.
I believe these students represent some of the brightest and best across our country. These are students who are choosing to undertake some of the most rigorous coursework you can at the university level. They are choosing to stay in shape and complete challenging physical fitness tests. Most importantly, they are choosing to serve – choosing to serve at least five years after graduation and choosing to serve whether in wartime or peace. These students are role models for all of us, and I want to thank each one from this year’s class.
As confident as I am in this year’s class, I know there are more in high schools in Ohio’s 15th District who want to answer the call to service and apply to a military academy. Basic requirements to apply for a nomination from my office to a military academy include:
• Residency in Ohio’s 15th District
• Applicant must be at least 17 years of age, but not yet reached their 23rd birthday on July 1st of the year admitted to an academy
• Must never have been married and have no legal obligation to support a child
• Must be a citizen of the United States
• Must be men and women of excellent moral character who are trustworthy, emotionally stable and motivated
The best time to begin the application process is spring of the applicant’s junior year of high school. However, if you, or someone you know, are interested in learning more about the process, I encourage you to visit my website at https://stivers.house.gov/constituentservices/serviceacademynominations.htm or call my Lancaster District Office at 740-654-2654.
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