Congressman Stephen F. Lynch announced today that he has nominated Andrew Beltis of Youngs Road in Dedham for an appointment to the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis.   Andrew, the son of Richard and Joan Beltis, is a student at Dedham High School and comes from a family with a proud tradition of service to the U.S. Navy.  His father Richard served on the USS Ray and the USS Kamehameha during the Vietnam War and his grandfather, Jack Beltis, was awarded the Liberation Medal of the Philippines for his Naval service during World War II.

 

Each year, as part of his Congressional responsibilities, Congressman Lynch is asked to present one or two exemplary candidates from the 9th Congressional District for admission to the Naval Academy, the Military Academy, the Air Force Academy and the Merchant Marine Academy.  "It seems as though after September 11^th, 2001, the number of highly qualified applicants seeking admission to the Service Academies has increased sharply.  This is the best of America's next generation answering their nation's call to duty.  These are all remarkable young people from wonderful families.  It gives me great hope for our nation’s future,” said Congressman Lynch.

 

"Andrew came highly regarded by the Navy and by his teachers and coaches in Dedham.  He is exceptional, and we expect great things from him.  I’m very proud to make this nomination.  These are challenging times for our nation's military, and after visiting Iraq and spending some time in Baghdad and Tikrit with our troops, I am especially mindful of the personal courage that these decisions require of these young men and women.  I know how it effects the entire family, and the Dedham community, so it becomes quite personal," said Congressman Lynch.

 

Congressman Lynch and his Congressional Liaison for Military Affairs, Bob Fowkes, examined each candidate's academic record, athletic achievements, extra-curricular activities and letters of recommendation.  After the extensive review process, Andrew Beltis was selected as someone whose character and love of his country put him at the top of an impressive group of candidates.

 

Congressman Lynch said, "This was a very competitive process because of the large number of outstanding candidates from our district.  Andrew is a wonderful reflection of his parents, Richard and Joan Beltis, and his grandparents, Clo Beltis and Jim and Jeanne Thebado.  I know that he will make an extraordinary addition to the United States Armed Forces.  The Beltis family, as well as the town of Dedham and the entire state have much to be proud of in Andrew.  In making this nomination, I share that pride.” 

 

Congressman Lynch encourages all high school juniors interested in attending one of the United States Service Academies to contact Mr. Robert Fowkes in his Boston Office at (617) 428-2000.

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