Congressman Chris Smith hosted a ceremony in his Toms River office for the eight high school graduates whom he had nominated from the 4th Congressional district for appointment to the nation’s military academies. The Congressman also presented each of the graduates with an American flag that had flown over the United State Capitol in their honor and met with many of their family members and friends.
“I consider it one of my greatest honors as a Member of Congress to nominate the most capable and extraordinary students from my District to attend the service academies,” the Congressman said at ceremony.
Each of these young men and women will join the ranks of the Class of 2029 for four years of rigorous academic and physical training at the service academies in preparation of eventually serving as an officer in the US Armed Forces.
“Each academy uniquely prepares its graduates to lead others in uniform in the defense of our nation—and I am consistently impressed with the qualities and dedication that these young women and men bring to the process, ” the Congressman said.
“It is a high honor and privilege to join your parents, family and friends in congratulating each of you on a truly remarkable achievement—you have all been chosen through a rigorous selection process to attend one of the prestigious United States Service Academies,” he continued, before also thanking them for their “willingness and commitment to serve. As you become America’s leaders of the most important fighting force on earth, know that our hopes and prayers are with you. I, and all of us, deeply respect your hard work that brought you to this day.”
Attending the United States Military Academy at West Point are: Leila Castell of Shrewsbury Borough, a graduate of Red Bank Regional High School; Jake Dembowski of Middletown, Middletown South High School and Morgan Zylinski of Lavallette, a graduate of the Ocean County Marine Academy of Technology and Environmental Science (MATES).
Attending the United States Naval Academy are: Aidan Gravelli of Middletown, Nathan Olmeida of Middletown, and Olivia Palutis of Ocean Township, all graduates of the Monmouth County Marine Academy of Science and Technology (MAST); and Christina Liggio of Colts Neck, a Red Bank Catholic graduate.
Attending the United States Air Force Academy is: Katrina Conti of Lacey Township, a graduate of Lacey Township High School.
Tired of Facebook? You can also Find ViniVidiScripto on the Following Platforms …
