Congressman Stephen F. Lynch recently announced that he has nominated Jeffrey Poreda of Willard Circle in Westwood for an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs.  Jeffrey, the son of Karen and Christopher Poreda, is a senior at Westwood High School and a member of the USFIRST robots team.

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.”

"Jeff was highly recommended by his teachers and advisors at Westwood High School.  He is a remarkable young man, and we are fortunate that young people like Jeff 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, Jeffrey Poreda 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.  Jeff stood out as a young man of keen intelligence and strong character.  He is a wonderful reflection of his parents, Karen and Christopher Poreda, and his grandparents Catherine and Zygmunt Poreda and Elisabeth and Chester Patterson.  The Poreda family, the town of Westwood, and the entire state should be proud of Jeff 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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