Washington, D.C.— Congressman Brian Baird (WA-03) today announced the appointments of 14 high school students from Washington’s 3rd Congressional District to the U.S. Service Academies.

“Having visited Iraq and Afghanistan several times, where I met and talked with our troops, I know first-hand how important a role the brave men and women play in protecting our freedom,” said Congressman Baird.  “I am proud that these students, through hard work and high academic achievement, will have the honor and privilege of getting an education from our service academies.  In return, they will provide leadership that will be of great benefit to our troops.”

Appointments – Class of 2014

U.S. Air Force Academy

The Class of 2014 was required to report to USAFA on June 24 for induction and the beginning of their summer training.
•    Blake Jones, Camas High School (Camas, WA)
•    Michael Lauritzen, Camas High School (Camas, WA)
•    William Loving, Battle Ground High School (Battle Ground, WA)
•    Cara Olden, Tumwater High School (Tumwater, WA)

U.S. Military Academy – West Point

The Class of 2014 was required to report to West Point on June 28 for their induction and the beginning of their summer training.
•    Kathryn Knapp, AG West Black Hills High School (Olympia, WA)/Montana State Univ.
•    Michael Madrid, Prairie High School (Vancouver, WA)
•    Nicole Miller, Willapa Valley High School (Menlo, WA)
•    Daniel Schneider, Hockinson High School (Brush Prairie, WA)
•    Natalie Stone, Camas High School (Camas, WA)

U.S. Naval Academy

The Class of 2014 was required to report to Annapolis on July 1 for induction and the beginning of their summer training.
•    Jarrett Brant, Union High School (Vancouver, WA)
•    Michael Madrid (attending USNA), Prairie High School
•    Cody Peterson, AG West Black Hills High School (Olympia, WA)
•    Daniel Schneider (attending USNA), Hockinson High School

U.S. Merchant Marine Academy

The Class of 2014 was required to report to July 8 for indoctrination and the beginning of their summer training.
•    David Baker, Columbia River High School/Clark College (Vancouver, WA)
•    Thomas Grace, LaSalle High School (Vancouver, WA resident)
•    Nathan Rogers, South Bend High School (South Bend, WA)

To be considered for an appointment to a service academy, an applicant must have a nomination from an authorized nominating source, such as a member of Congress. Congressman Baird may nominate only those applicants who reside in Washington’s Third District.  Applicants must also demonstrate a high level of scholastic ability, civic responsibility, and physical fitness.  

Students interested in being nominated for a service academy in 2011 must submit all application materials to Congressman Baird’s Vancouver office by October 8, 2010.  Each applicant will also need to contact their prospective academy and make sure that they have completed all of that academy’s specific admissions requirements.

The Academy Selection Committee, a nonpartisan group of Third District citizens, will evaluate each of the applicants, interview them individually, and make their recommendations.  Congressman Baird will then examine each application and review the committee’s recommendations before making a final decision.

Potential applicants can receive more information about the selection process by going to Congressman Baird’s website or by contacting Cindy Gipson in the Vancouver District Office at (360) 695-6292.