Congressman Mike Pence

Anderson, IN – U.S. Congressman Mike Pence nominated seven high school seniors from Madison and Delaware Counties to receive nominations to America's military academies. Emily Gilland of Daleville, Benjamin Branson of Anderson, Andrew Hueston of Anderson, Mariah Miller of Anderson, Kyle Johnson of Anderson, Jordan McCool of Anderson, and Sarah Bitner of Anderson were among 14 students Pence nominated from the 6th Congressional District.

"I want to congratulate these students on their service to their local communities and for their academic excellence," said Pence. "Indiana is fortunate to have young men and women of their caliber who are willing to serve their country. I wish Emily, Benjamin, Andrew, Mariah, Kyle, Jordan, and Sarah all the best as they put their country first and prepare to selflessly serve this great nation."

Emily Gilland of Daleville – Emily is the daughter or Tom and Kathi Gilland. She attends Culver Academies where she plays volleyball. She has competed in volleyball tournaments across the country and has participated in an extensive list of service projects, including teaching Vacation Bible School at Grace Luthern Church, serving as a study hall tutor, and volunteering at the Second Harvest Food Bank distribution center. Emily was nominated for acceptance into the Military Academy and Naval Academy.

Benjamin Branson of Anderson – Benjamin is the son of John and Dawn Branson. He attends Alexandria-Monroe High School where he is a member of the varsity wrestling team. He has earned his black belt in Judo, is involved with St. Mary's church, and has volunteered at Camp Belzer, a special needs camp. Andrew was nominated for acceptance into the Naval Academy.

Andrew Hueston of Anderson – Andrew is the son of Richard and Beth Hueston. He attends Anderson High School. He serves as secretary of both his senior class as well as the National Honor Society at Anderson High School. He is a member of the varsity swimming and varsity tennis teams and has volunteered on multiple missions trips across the country and the world. Andrew was nominated for acceptance into the Military Academy.

Mariah Miller of Anderson – Mariah is the daughter of William Eugene Miller II and Elizabeth Miller. Miller attends Lapel High School, and is involved in numerous activities including cross country, tennis, National Honor Society and 4-H. Mariah was nominated for acceptance into the Air Force Academy and Merchant Marine Academy.

Kyle Johnson of Anderson – Kyle is the son of Anthony and Misty Johnson. He attends Anderson High School. Johnson is an avid swimmer, having won multiple awards including Scholastic All-American in 2010 and 2011. He is also a member of the National Honor Society. Kyle was nominated for acceptance into the Merchant Marine Academy.

Jordan McCool of Anderson – Jordan is the son of Randall and Patricia McCool. He attends Pendleton Heights High School. McCool is a member of the varsity cross country, varsity track and field, and varsity wrestling teams. He is also involved in his church. Jordan was nominated for acceptance into the Naval Academy and Air Force Academy.

Sarah Bitner of Anderson – Sarah is the daughter of Richard and Michelle Bitner. She attends Anderson High School. Bitner is a member of the National Honor Society, the speech team, varsity cross country team, and varsity track team. She is also involved in the youth group at St. Mary's Church. Sarah was nominated for acceptance into the Military Academy and Naval Academy.

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