Congressman Stephen F. Lynch recently announced that he has nominated Alexander Brand of Forest Street in Needham for an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs.  Alex, the son of Jacqueline Phillips and Peter Brand, is a senior at Needham High School and a nationally-ranked fencer.

As part of his annual Congressional responsibilities, Congressman Lynch nominates exemplary candidates to the armed services academies.  "Since September 11, 2001, the quality of applicants has steadily improved every year, and this year the decision was especially tough.  These candidates are the best of the best, and I am proud of their desire to serve our country.”

"Alex was highly recommended by his teachers and coaches at Needham High School.  He is a remarkable young man, and we are fortunate that young people like Alex are willing to serve our nation,” said Congressman Lynch.

Congressman Lynch and his Congressional Liaison for Military Affairs, Bob Fowkes, examined each candidate’s record of academic, athletic, and service achievements, as well as his letters of recommendation.  After an extensive review process and a personal interview, Alexander Brand was selected as someone whose scholastic record and community service elevated him to the top of a list of well-qualified candidates.

Congressman Lynch said, "There were many impressive candidates this year from the Ninth Congressional District for the Air Force Academy.  Alex stood out as a young man of keen intelligence and strong character.  He is a wonderful reflection of his parents, Jacqueline Phillips and Peter Brand, as well as his grandparents, Dr. and Mrs. Frederick Brand and Elaine Bell and Lavern Phillips.  The Phillips and Brand families, the town of Needham, and the entire state should be proud of Alex in this achievement.”

Students interested in attending one of the United States Service Academies should contact Mr. Robert Fowkes in Congressman Lynch’s Boston office at 617-428-2000.

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