Press Releases

Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright announced that Notre Dame High School student, Thomas Koons, has been accepted to the United States Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, CO. Rep. Cartwright proudly nominated Thomas to attend the academy where he will be heading to begin his service career.

Thomas is a graduate of Notre Dame High School in Easton and the son of Michael and Elizabeth Koons. While attending Notre Dame High, Thomas served as the senior class president of the NDHS Student Government, a peer tutor, and a member of the National Honor Society. Thomas was also a captain of the varsity cross country and track teams, treasurer for the NDHS Key Club, and a recipient of the West Point Society of the Lehigh Valley Dwight D. Eisenhower Leadership Award.

“Each year, I have the distinct honor of nominating students from the 17^th Congressional District to our nation’s military academies,” said Rep. Cartwright. “To be nominated, students must not only excel academically but also exhibit a passion for service and leadership. Thomas is a well-rounded, bright young man and a role model for his peers; I am so proud of his hard work, perseverance, and acceptance into the academy.”  

In order to attend one of the military academies, students must receive a nomination from their Member of Congress. Students may apply to the U.S. Military Academy (West Point), the Air Force Academy, the Naval Academy, and the Merchant Marine Academy.  Accepted students will receive a full scholarship, and upon graduation, they must complete the military service obligation requirement for each school.

Rep. Cartwright added, “Throughout our nation’s history, U.S. Service Academies have played an important role in preparing young people for service to our country.  As a Pennsylvanian, I am proud of our patriotic young men and women who are willing to step forward and answer the call of duty.  It is an honor to play a role in preparing our next generation of leaders.”