Congressman Stephen F. Lynch announced today that he has nominated Bryan Ballard of Beal Avenue in Whitman for an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs.  Bryan, the son of James and Gwen Ballard, is a student at Whitman-Hanson High School and Captain of the Varsity Soccer Team.

 

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 at Annapolis, the Military Academy at West Point, 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.

 

"Bryan came highly regarded by the Air Force and by his teachers and coaches in Whitman.  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.  And I know how it effects the entire family, and the Whitman 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, Bryan Ballard 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.  Bryan is a wonderful reflection of his parents, James and Gwen Ballard, and his grandparents, Dean Vaughn and Miriam Ballard.   I know that he will make an extraordinary addition to the U.S. Armed Forces.  The Ballard family, as well as the town of Whitman and the entire state have much to be proud of in Bryan.  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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