Two Greenbrier County students are among those nominated to the U.S service academies. Sarah D. Leslie and Erin E. Leslie, of USAFA Prep, are nominated to the Air Force Academy.
U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) announced last week that he will nominate 40 West Virginia students from 17 counties to the U.S. service academies, which include the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and the Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point.
Manchin is nominating the students after reviewing the recommendations made by a seven-member Service Academy Selection Board that convened on October 17-19. The Board is comprised of West Virginians who have served in the military or who are educators. The Board interview process ensures that candidates have met the needed qualifications and criteria.
“It is such an honor to recommend 40 of West Virginia’s brightest young men and women to the U.S. service academies,” Manchin said. “All of our students worked hard to earn these nominations and are determined to serve our country. Many are also striving to carry on their families’ proud military heritage. Today, I join all West Virginians in congratulating these hardworking and committed students, because a nomination to one of our elite service academies will develop these young men and women to become our next generation of military leaders.”
“I also thank my Service Academy Selection Board, who interviewed every candidate. The students go through a rigorous interview process with my office so the nominees are really among an elite group of West Virginia students. I am confident that these young men and women will serve our state and country well in their future endeavors.”