WASHINGTON, DC – Last week, U.S. Rep. Michael A. Arcuri (NY-24) nominated 22 students from the 24th Congressional District for attendance at one of the four U.S. Military Academies.

“I am so impressed with the quality of character and academic excellence that these nominees have shown throughout their lives,” said Arcuri, who hosted a ceremony earlier this week at the Utica Center for Development to present nominees with Congressional certificates and a food drive for local veterans and their families.  “One of the most enjoyable parts of being a Congressman is nominating students who have such bright futures and will represent our nation with class and dignity.  I am proud to nominate these qualified students and look forward to following their bright futures.”

Appointments to all four U.S. Military Service Academies are chosen from nominations received from Members of Congress throughout the country. Arcuri’s Military Academy Committee, which is made up of local veterans and leaders, interviewed and recommended candidates in the 24th Congressional District for nomination. Final appointments are determined by the U.S. Military Service Academies, selecting from a nationwide pool of nominees. In 2008, nine students nominated by Arcuri received appointments to one of the four U.S. Service Academies.

The following students have been nominated by Arcuri to one of the four U.S. Military Service Academies:

United States Military Academy

Patrick Bankich, son of Patrick and Nancy Jo Bankick of Plymouth, is a senior at Norwich High School.  His extracurricular activities and awards include cross country, track, jazz band, marching band, student government (Class President), National Honor Society, Boys State and as a local volunteer at the United Way and Food Pantry

Justen J. Yoder, son of Mr. David Yoder of South Plymouth, and Ms. Lora Yoder of Schuylkill Haven, Pa. is a senior at Valley Heights Christian Academy. His extracurricular awards and activities include Boy’s State, basketball, soccer, choir, Drama Club, National Christian Honor Society, and working over 100+ hours of community service.