Gillibrand Names Hudson Valley Nominees To U.S. Service Academies

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced her nominations for candidates from the Hudson Valley to three of the nation’s leading service institutions: the United States Air Force, Military, and Naval Academies.

“I am honored to nominate such dedicated and talented students from the Hudson Valley to our nation’s service academies. They have demonstrated exemplary leadership abilities and an outstanding academic record, as well as a passion to serve our nation,” Gillibrand said in a press release. “Our service academies cultivate top-tier officers who bravely protect our nation, and I look forward to these nominees’ successes as they further their education and continue their commitment to our country in the armed forces.”

Gillibrand’s nominees are:

• Allison Castillo (Glenham, Dutchess County) – U.S. Air Force Academy
• Christopher Doyle (Chappaqua, Westchester County) – U.S. Military Academy
• Sean Flynn (Newburgh, Orange County) – U.S. Air Force Academy
• Meredith Hickman (New Windsor, Orange County) – U.S. Military Academy
• Benjamin Leicht (North Salem, Westchester County) – U.S. Air Force Academy
• Benjamin Lockey (New City, Rockland County) – U.S. Military Academy
• Thomas O’Rourke (Carmel, Putnam County) – U.S. Naval Academy

Gillibrand is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

Her selection committee chose the nominees from a large group of qualified applicants. Decisions were based on criteria including academic record, leadership potential, and overall achievement. Final acceptance is determined solely by the service academies.

The United States service academies offer a first-class education as well as the chance for young people to serve our country upon graduation as commissioned officers in the United States Armed Services, she said.