DAVIS, Calif. – Congressman John Garamendi (D-Davis, Fairfield, Yuba City) held a reception last Friday honoring 11 students from the Third Congressional District who he nominated and have been accepted into one of the nation’s five military service academies.

The young men and women competing for nominations this year include an outstanding group of individuals.

While all applicants demonstrated the dedication, courage and aptitude necessary to excel at an academy, only a select few of the most qualified individuals are able to receive a nomination each year.

Nominations are based on the applicant’s academic strength, extracurricular activities and in-person interviews with Congressman Garamendi’s Academies Nomination Committee.

Members of the committee include service academy alumnus and current members of the military.

“Each year I have the privilege of nominating a select group of young men and women to four of the five service academies,” said Garamendi. “Our nation’s military service academies have a long standing tradition of excellence in education, service, and integrity, and I am proud to have such remarkable nominees represent the Third Congressional District. I salute our 2016 nominees and thank them for their commitment to our country.”

The list of nominees follows.

United States Air Force Academy

· William Boyd, Justin Siena High School Currently attending USAFA Preparatory School.

· Melissa Brunkal, Vacaville High School.

· Abby DeVarennes, DaVinci Charter Academy.

· John Evalle, Vanden High School.

· Kylee Gilbert, Vanden High School.

· Kara Malong, Winters High School.

· Leanne Singleton Comfort, East Nicolaus High School, currently attending UC San Diego.

· Hannah Wyatt, Woodland Christian High School.

United States Naval Academy

· Joshua Thompson, Dixon High School.

United States Military Academy

· Richard Delzell, North Hollywood High School Currently attending UC Davis.

· Paul Mooradian, Armijo High School.