Washington, Apr 14 -

Rep. Bruce Braley (D-Iowa) announced today that Collin Bickford of Davenport received an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy.  Bickford will enter the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, this fall. 

“I’m proud to announce that Collin Bickford was accepted to the U.S. Naval Academy,” Braley said.  “I nominated Collin to the Naval Academy because his academic record and passion for serving his country made him stand out.  I’m happy that Collin will get the opportunity to continue his education at Navy.” 

Collin Bickford graduated from Davenport West High School in 2007.  He received a grant from the Naval Academy to attend Blair Academy Preparatory School in New Jersey for one year prior to his enrollment at the Naval Academy this fall.  Collin is the son of James and Lori Bickford. 

Each year Congressman Braley nominates students to the military service academies, including the U.S. Naval Academy.  Nominees must demonstrate upstanding character, academic achievement, physical fitness, and leadership skills.  A nominating committee comprised of community leaders reviews all applicants, with Congressman Braley recommending top candidates to the respective academies.  All nominated students may not receive appointments, as final acceptance decisions are made by the service academy. 

Students interested in applying to military service academies for enrollment in fall of 2009 should contact Congressman Braley’s Waterloo office at (319) 287-3233.