June 17, 2020 10:40 a.m.

Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley has begun the process for nominating young Oregonians to the Air Force Academy, Naval Academy, U.S. Military Academy at West Point and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.

Merkley said “it’s a privilege to be able to help students who are looking to dedicate themselves in service to their fellow citizens”. Merkley said each year he looks forward to nominating some of the finest young Oregonians from communities all across the state for possible admission to one of the United States Service Academies.

A release said candidates must be a resident of Oregon, and a U.S. citizen, at least 17 years old but not past their 23rd birthday, unmarried with no children or dependents, and able to meet high leadership, academic, physical and medical standards.

Those who wish to compete for a nomination and admission should first apply directly to the academy they are interested in attending. Then they should apply for nomination to Senator Merkley by setting up at online account at this link: https://www.merkley.senate.gov/services/students/academy

Call 503-326-2906 for more information.