Amherst Times

Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-27) announced that his office is accepting applications for those interested in being nominated to one of the service academies for the 2008 academic year. To apply, students must submit an application requesting the nomination by October 31, 2007.

Eligible applicants must be unmarried, United States citizens who are between 17 and 23 years old. Nominations will be based on the following standards: character, scholarship, leadership, physical aptitude, medical fitness and motivation.

“Service to our Country is a noble and selfless calling,” said Congressman Higgins. “I am honored to play a role in nominating young men and women from Western New York and I encourage those who desire service training and education to apply.”

Last week Congressman Higgins hosted an informational “Academy Night” at Hamburg High School. Dozens of students, parents, and school administrators came out to learn more about the application process directly from academy representatives.

Service Academy appointments are made by the President of the United States based on congressional and/or military recommendations. Congressman Higgins will name an Academy Advisory Board to interview all applicants and make recommendations. The Congressman will submit his nominations by January 31, 2008.

Students must also apply separately to the Academy itself, which can be accessed at: Air Force Academy – www.usafa.edu ; Military Academy – www.usma.edu ; Naval Academy – www.usna.edu ; and Merchant Marine Academy – www.usmma.edu.

Those interested in receiving a nomination from Congressman Higgins can access a sample letter requesting a nomination on the Congressman’s website at: http://higgins.house.gov/SupportingFiles/documents/Higgins_AcademyApp.pdf or submit a letter requesting the nomination along with copies of their high school transcript, report card, and most recent SAT scores to: Congressman Brian Higgins, 726 Exchange St., Suite 601, Buffalo, NY 14210. For more information please contact Congressman Higgins’ office at 852-3501.