SE Nebraska News

U.S. Congressman Mike Flood has announced the nomination of several individuals from Nebraska’s First Congressional District to various Military Service Academies. This announcement comes after a comprehensive interview and selection process conducted by a committee composed of military leaders and community members.

"Many of our nation's brave service members come from the great state of Nebraska," stated Congressman Flood. "I am honored to nominate these outstanding and talented Nebraskans from the First District to the Military Service Academies. I also want to thank the committee for their work, which provided valuable insights into each applicant. Congratulations to the nominees on this prestigious achievement."

The selection committee included retired Brigadier General Roma Amundson from Lincoln, Dave Merritt from Norfolk, Mace Kant from Norfolk, and Col. Robert J. Newbauer from Omaha. Their evaluations focused on applicants' knowledge of Military Service Academies, understanding of Armed Forces roles, commitment to national service, academic achievements, and communication skills under pressure.

Based on these recommendations, Congressman Flood nominated candidates who met stringent academic and physical criteria for institutions such as the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy; however, no nominations were made for the U.S. Coast Guard Academy due to lack of applications.

The nominees are listed alphabetically by last name:

- Mason Curtis of Bellevue: Nominated for the U.S. Air Force Academy

- Leo Geck of La Vista: Nominated for both the U.S. Air Force Academy and U.S. Military Academy

- Chloe Grabenbauer of Bellevue: Nominated for the U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Military Academy, and U.S. Naval Academy

- Colson Hazen of Fremont: Nominated for multiple academies including the U.S Air Force Academy

- Ayla Janssen of Columbus: Nominated for the U.S Air Force Academy

- Adrian Lauer of Lincoln: Nominated for the U.S Air Force Academy

- Tyler McDonald of Lincoln: Nominated for the U.S Air Force Academy

- Christian Mundt of La Vista: Received nominations across three academies

- Nicholas Phelan of Lincoln: Considered by two academies

- Cohen Sand of Lincoln: Eligible at four different academies

- Ayden Shook also received consideration at one academy

- Sarah Spahr was nominated solely for her interest in naval studies

- Chase Thomas will be pursuing his career path through West Point