WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-Pa.) has appointed 34 veterans, public servants, and community leaders from across Pennsylvania to two regional advisory boards that will help review applicants for nominations to the nation’s U.S. Service Academies.
The boards, representing eastern and western Pennsylvania, will assist in evaluating applications, conducting interviews, and recommending qualified candidates for appointments to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. The U.S. Coast Guard Academy does not require a congressional nomination.
“As a combat veteran and a West Point graduate, I know how critical the academy nomination process is,” McCormick said. “I’m thrilled to have the support of these 34 outstanding veterans, leaders, and patriots on this advisory board to help ensure our service academy candidates are not only academically capable, but also demonstrate the character, leadership, and resilience required to lead with honor.”
Appointments to U.S. Service Academies are highly competitive. Applicants must meet rigorous academic and physical requirements, apply directly to the academy of their choice, and secure a nomination from a member of Congress or another authorized source to be considered for admission.
The eastern advisory board includes state officials and military veterans such as Lancaster County President Judge Leonard Brown, Pennsylvania State Treasurer Stacy Garrity, and former U.S. Attorney Bill McSwain. The western board features notable figures including Vietnam veteran and former Pittsburgh Steelers running back Rocky Bleier, State Senator Doug Mastriano, and Pennsylvania House Representative Natalie Mihalek.
McCormick said serving on these boards is a “full-circle moment,” recalling his own nomination to West Point by former U.S. Senator Arlen Specter. He emphasized that the process seeks candidates who combine academic excellence with leadership and resilience.
Applications for nominations to the 2026 incoming classes are currently open for Pennsylvania residents seeking appointments to the nation’s service academies.
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