SE Minnesota News

Today, Congressman Brad Finstad of Minnesota's First District announced the nomination of four students from southern Minnesota to various U.S. service academies. Each nominee has accepted their appointment to their respective institutions.

The nominated students are Luke Sems from Pine Island High School for the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, Ava Austin from Rochester Century High School for the U.S. Naval Academy, Jackson Ecker from Mankato East High School for the U.S. Air Force Academy, and Greg Meidl from Mankato West High School for the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.

"Members of Congress have the distinct honor of nominating the next generation of military leaders to our country’s prestigious service academies, and it was a true honor to put forward the names of these four exceptional students," said Rep. Finstad. "As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I know the commitment and dedication our nation requires of its servicemembers. Luke, Ava, Jackson, and Greg are among the best and brightest that Minnesota’s First District has to offer. I applaud and admire these bright young students for answering the call to serve."

Students who gain acceptance into U.S. service academies receive a four-year university education with an obligation to serve in the military for at least five years after graduation. Congressman Finstad recently met with this year's nominees and their families to commend them on their accomplishments.

A photograph accompanying this announcement features Luke Sems, Greg Meidl, Congressman Finstad, Jackson Ecker, and Ava Austin.

For those interested in learning more about attending one of the U.S. service academies, information is available on the Service Academy Nominations page.