(March 12, 2008) Downey – Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-34) is pleased to announce the appointment of Caleb Shifflet, a Downey High School senior, to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y.

"I am extremely proud of Caleb. He is an exceptional young man who earned admission to one of our nation's most prestigious service academies through his hard work, commitment and leadership abilities. He successfully completed a very competitive application process that included a review of his potential for leadership, academic achievements and his extracurricular and community involvement," said Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-34) who is pictured with Caleb in October at the congresswoman’s annual service academy workshop. "I’m certain that Caleb’s self-discipline, strong motivation to succeed and devotion to helping others in the community will enable him to become a fine commissioned officer and community leader that our country can be proud of."

Every year, Congresswoman Roybal-Allard nominates students from her district for admission to the service academies, which also include the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at King's Point, New York. Successful applicants receive a free four-year college education in exchange for a commitment to serve five years as a commissioned officer in the military following graduation.

The nomination application and additional information can be obtained by visiting the congresswoman's web site at www.house.gov/roybal-allard and by clicking the "Student Section," or by calling Juan Carlos-Aviles in the congresswoman's district office at (213) 628-9230.