Congressman Stephen F. Lynch recently announced that he has nominated Joseph Charles Carruthers of Walnut Avenue in Norwood for an appointment to the United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point.  Joe, the son of Lori Karey and Ernest Carruthers, Sr., is a senior at Norfolk County Agricultural High School and a member of the varsity soccer, basketball, and baseball teams.

As part of his annual Congressional responsibilities, Congressman Lynch nominates exemplary candidates to the 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.”

"Joe was highly recommended by his teachers and coaches at Norfolk Agricultural.  He is a remarkable young man, and we are fortunate that young people like Joe 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, Joseph Carruthers 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 Merchant Marine Academy.  Joe stood out as a young man of keen intelligence and strong character.  He is a wonderful reflection of his parents, Lori Karey and Ernest Carruthers, and his grandparents Edward and Sylvia Carruthers and Sonja and Stanley Karey.  The Carruthers and Karey families, the town of Norwood, and the entire state should be proud of Joe 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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