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Delegation Invites South Dakotans to Apply to U.S. Service Academies

Delegation Invites South Dakotans to Apply to U.S. Service Academies

September 26, 2011

Washington, D.C.--Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD), Senator John Thune (R-SD) and Representative Kristi Noem (R-SD) announced today that South Dakota young people interested in being nominated to one of the four U.S. Service Academies for the Class of 2016 should apply by October 31, 2011.

South Dakota residents between the ages of 17 and 23 may apply to any of the four service academies if they meet eligibility requirements in leadership, physical aptitude, scholarship and character. The four service academies are the Military Academy at West Point, New York; the Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland; the Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, Colorado; and the Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York.

"Some of South Dakota's best and brightest students apply to serve our country at one of the nation's four service academies every year. I know that this year will be no different," said Johnson. "The deadline is fast approaching, so I encourage all those interested to submit their applications."

"America's four service academies provide students with a unique opportunity that few other higher education institutions can provide," said Thune. "In addition to top-notch education, students at our military academies are able to get an early start in serving their nation. I encourage all interested South Dakota students to apply for this once in a lifetime opportunity."

"The education at our nation's four service academies is second to none so I encourage South Dakota students to apply if they have an interest.  Attending one of the academies will be a life-changing opportunity to learn and serve our country at the same time," said Noem.

Johnson, Thune, and Noem will each compile separate lists and make nominations to the academies of the most qualified candidates by January 31, 2012. Applicants are encouraged to submit applications to all three Congressional offices in order to better their chances of receiving a nomination. The academies will make the final decision on acceptance and announce appointments next spring.

Interested applicants should contact:
Senator Johnson's office at (605) 332-8896; Senator Thune's office at (605) 334-9596; Congresswoman Noem's office at (605) 275-2875.

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