U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) announced his nominees Dec. 19 to the United States Service Academies.
A nomination is required to attend the U.S. Military Academy (West Point), the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy; the U.S. Coast Guard Academy does not require a nomination. According to a press release, “being nominated is a significant honor. The application process is rigorous, and only the most qualified and meritorious candidates receive a nomination.”
“Our nation’s service academies provide exceptional education, training, and experience that prepare students for leadership roles in our armed forces as well as the skills needed to succeed after their military service,” Heinrich said. “I’m pleased to announce and congratulate this year’s nominees — these students embody the best of New Mexico, and they have shown incredible initiative. I commend them on their commitment to serve our country.”
The United States Service Academies offer four-year college educations to qualified students. Graduates of the U.S. Military Academy (West Point), the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and the U.S. Coast Guard Academy receive commissions in the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Merchant Marine, or Coast Guard, and are obligated to serve for at least five years after graduation.
The following students in Sandoval County received nominations through Heinrich’s office:
United States Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, Colorado
- Arianna Valenzuela of Rio Rancho
United States Military Academy at West Point, New York
- Antonio Ali of Rio Rancho
- Charles Vause of Rio Rancho
- Adam Walton of Rio Rancho
United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York
- Mario Leyba Jr. of Bernalillo
- Sarah Romero of Rio Rancho