DOWNEY - Downey resident Ryan Montgomery has been appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md.Following his graduation from Valley Christian High School in Cerritos, Montgomery expects to begin the elite 4-year Naval Academy program this summer. "I am very proud of Ryan. He is an exceptional young man who earned admission to one of our nation's most prestigious service academies through his hard work, commitment and leadership abilities," said Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-34), who nominated Montgomery. "I'm certain Ryan's self-discipline, strong motivation to succeed and eagerness to serve our country will enable him to become a fine commissioned officer and leader that our community and nation can be proud of." Each year, Roybal-Allard nominates qualified students from her district for admission to the service academies, which also include the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado, the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, N.Y., and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in King's Point, N.Y. Successful applicants receive a free education in exchange for a commitment to serve five years as a commissioned officer in the military following graduation. Entrance into the academies is highly competitive. Last year, for example, only 14 percent of 1,537 of all Naval Academy applicants were offered appointments. Montgomery currently holds a 3.9 GPA and "performed very well" on the SAT. In addition to playing football, track, the violin, and singing in the school choir, he has also mentored students at Tucker Elementary School in Long Beach. He also tutored at his church's Sunday school and volunteered at Camp Pendleton. For his efforts, he has received numerous awards and accolades, including induction into the National Honor Society in 2007. Admission to the service academies is based on a multitude of skills and attributes, including character, scholarship, leadership, physical aptitude, medical fitness, goals and motivation. To learn more about the service academies and the nomination process, visit Roybal-Allard's website at www.house.gov/roybal-allard.

********** Published: May 8, 2009 - Volume 8 - Issue 3