Chandler Congratulates Anderson County Students on Appointment
WASHINGTON (May 15, 2012)—Congressman Chandler last night recognized Anderson County High School students Victoria Yeaste and Matthew Sprague for their appointments to the U.S. Air Force Academy during their school’s senior awards program. Ms. Yeaste and Mr. Sprague received the appointments after Chandler nominated them.
“The United States Air Force Academy is one of our country’s most storied and outstanding educational institutions,” said Chandler. “Graduates of the USAFA have a strong record of going on to become future leaders of our country, and I’m proud to announce that Victoria and Matthew will join their company.”
It is no easy feat to receive an appointment to a U.S. service academy. Students must have an excellent academic record, participate in extracurricular activities and be in top physical condition. The students not only endured a rigorous application process with the Air Force Academy, but participated in Congressman Chandler’s review process, which includes a final interview by a panel made up of former academy graduates and current or retired officers.
“I have been the recipient of many freedoms and blessings as an American, especially as a woman,” Yeaste said during the application process. “I want that patriotism to live through me by obtaining a USAFA military education and becoming a U.S. Air Force officer.”
“In the small town of Lawrenceburg, flags fly on nearly every home,” said Sprague in his application essay. “My own family boasts several veterans, and military service is held in the highest regard. These experiences have instilled in a me a deep respect and gratitude to the men and women who have served out country so worthily, and I would consider it an honor and a privilege to join them in service.”
Yeaste is ranked first overall in her class. In addition to her strong academic record, she is vice president of her senior class, captains her varsity soccer team, and participated in the Governor’s Scholars Program (GSP). She also volunteers in her community and tutors her peers. Her older brother Josh graduates from the Air Force Academy this spring.
Sprague maintained a 4.0 GPA through high school while playing on his school’s football, weightlifting, track, and cross country teams. He served as president of his junior class and is a member of the National Honor Society. Like Ms. Yeaste, he also tutors his classmates and volunteers regularly.
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