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Conroe, Texas – Eight Montgomery County high school graduates will soon be heading to U.S. military academies at West Point, the Naval Academy and the Air Force Academy.

All received appointments from U. S. Congressman Kevin Brady (R-The Woodlands) who held his traditional send-off breakfast for the group and their parents this Saturday morning at The Woodlands United Methodist Church.

“Our nation’s future depends upon a new generation of young people willing to serve their country as military leaders. It’s never been more important than now,” said Brady. “I’m proud of the outstanding young men and women of the eighth congressional district who’ve been chosen to attend America’s service academies. It’s a remarkable education and an opportunity to give back to your country.”

Joining Brady at the send-off are husband-wife Air Force Academy graduates Major Amy Glisson and Captain (Ret.) Wes Glisson who are sharing their experiences at both the academy and in active duty service.

After serving in Afghanistan, Captain Glisson - a native of New Waverly and standout on the Air Force football team - was assigned to the Green Zone in Iraq where he suffered critical battlefield injuries. He has retired back home to Texas focus on his recovery. Captain Glisson’s father is a Montgomery County Sheriff’s Deputy.

His wife, Major Glisson - an all-American gymnast at the Air Force Academy - served as executive officer for the elite Thunderbird team and is now stationed at the Air Force Personnel Center in San Antonio so she can be close to her husband during his recovery.

The class of incoming cadets and midshipmen include:

• Francisco Solano-Bloodworth (The Woodlands College Park) – Air Force Academy
• James Cullingford (Conroe) – Naval Academy
• Jonathan DeBaugh (Conroe)  – Naval Academy
• Christopher Ditter (The Woodlands College Park ) – Air Force Academy
• Samuel Finney (Strake Jesuit College Prep) – West Point
• Stephanie Mallard (The Woodlands College Park ) – Air Force Academy
• Megan Reutzel (The Woodlands College Park ) – Naval Academy
• Alexia Ricketts (The Woodlands ) – Naval Academy

In order to be offered an appointment to a service academy, candidates must first be nominated by their U.S. Representative or Senator. High School students residing in the 8th Congressional District of Texas are encouraged to speak to their guidance counselors about local applying through Congressman Brady’s office. 

Students can also learn more about the process and download the application at http://www.house.gov/brady/academy_page.html or by contacting Justin Davidson in the Huntsville district office at 936-439-9532.