FROM STAFF REPORTS

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Gary Palmer announced that 12 students from Alabama’s Sixth District have been accepted to United States Service Academies.

They will continue their education at one of the Service Academies and subsequently serve at least five years in the U.S. military.

“Nominating outstanding students to the U.S. Service Academies is one of the most serious responsibilities and highest honors of my job,” Palmer said. “These young people are our future leaders, so I want to do my part to send the best from Alabama’s Sixth District. Receiving an appointment is a competitive process and a huge accomplishment. I’m proud of these 12 incredible students and look forward to what the future holds for them. I’m confident they will excel in their endeavors and serve America honorably.”

The appointed students are as follows:

• Phoebe Cooper, of Oak Mountain High School, will attend the U.S. Naval Academy
• Kyle Curtis, of Oak Mountain High School, will attend the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
• Skylar Johnston, of Oak Mountain High School, will attend the U.S. Naval Academy
• Rachel Price, of Westminster School at Oak Mountain, will attend the U.S. Air Force Academy
• Meron Acker, of USAFA Prep, will attend the U.S. Air Force Academy
• Jaden Alexander, of Homewood High School, will attend the U.S. Naval Academy
• Baynes Autrey, of Mountain Brook High School, will attend the U.S. Naval Academy
• Jackson Bryant, of Vestavia Hills High School, will attend the U.S. Naval Academy
• Sarathi Shah, of Marion Military Institute, will attend the U.S. Naval Academy
• Natalie Thorn, of Hoover High School, will attend the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
• Jude Watkins, of Evangel Christian School, will attend the U.S. Military Academy
• Meredith Watson, of Gardendale High School, will attend the U.S. Military Academy

If you or someone you know is interested in attending a military service academy, visit Palmer.house.gov and select “Services: U.S. Service Academy Nominations” for more information.

Eligible applicants must be at least 17 years old, a U.S. citizen, have a strong academic background, possess proven leadership skills and be of good moral character.