“THESE OUTSTANDING NOMINEES REPRESENT THE BEST AND BRIGHTEST IN THE DISTRICT”

WASHINGTON, DEC. 18, 2012 – “Receiving a nomination to a Service Academy requires excellent academic, leadership, and physical qualities, and I’m very proud of these outstanding men and women,” said Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-FL).  “Making these nominations is one of the most important responsibilities I have as a member of Congress, and I know that these individuals will serve our nation to the best of their abilities.”

Admission is based on SAT/ACT scores, class rank, physical aptitude scores, extracurricular activities, athletic abilities and medical examinations.   The academies make the final decision on who receives an appointment of admission. 

Nominees to the Service Academies

U.S. Naval Academy

Charles Stabler of Ocala
Samuel Coons IV of Gainesville
Joshua Escobar of Ocala
Patrick Ledzian of Ocala
David Tossovainen of Fleming Island
Erich Zellmer of Gainesville

U.S. Military Academy (West Point)

Jonathan Smith of Trenton
Michael Neville of Gainesville

U.S. Air Force Academy

Anthony Willis of Newberry
Andrew Steinemann of Belleview
Steven Newman of Green Cove Springs
Zachary Hodges of Gainesville
Alan Donahue of Green Cove Springs
Clayton Boettcher of Newberry
Daniel Gaynes of Middleburg
Samantha Moody of Fleming Island
Victoria Zinkus of Jacksonville

U.S. Merchant Marine Academy

Conner Elmstrom of Leesburg
Justin Martin of Keystone Heights