Serving in the U.S. military and defending our country profoundly shaped my life, and now, hosting the Service Academy Summit is something I look forward to every single year. Nominating outstanding students to our nation’s service academies is one of my highest honors as a Member of Congress.

Each year this summit gives high school students the opportunity to meet representatives from all five service academies: the U.S. Military Academy West Point, the Naval Academy, the Air Force Academy, the Merchant Marine Academy, and the Coast Guard Academy.

Each representative shared valuable information about their academy. I also explained my congressional nomination process, which includes a fitness assessment at the Navy SEAL Museum led by active-duty Soldiers and Marines. For students interested in applying, a key step in the process – except for the Coast Guard Academy – is obtaining a congressional nomination. This nomination allows applicants to demonstrate their discipline and character, proving they have what it takes to succeed as cadets and midshipmen.

Attending a service academy comes at no cost to the student. In fact, academy students receive a stipend along with full medical and dental coverage throughout their enrollment. At a time when college tuition is skyrocketing and military recruitment numbers are just finally meeting targets, attending a service academy is both an exceptional opportunity for students and a critical investment in our nation’s future. 

Applications for service academy nominations are open until November 1, 2025.  If you have any questions, please contact my Port St. Lucie office at 772-336-2877.

Watch here.