Every year, many students across the 21st district apply for the opportunity to attend one of our nation’s distinguished military service academies.

It is an honor for me to nominate the outstanding young people who are interested in pursuing their education at one of these academies. I am always inspired by the bright, capable, patriotic and dedicated men and women who are interested in attending the United States Air Force Academy, Naval Academy, Military Academy, or the Merchant Marine Academy.

It takes a special kind of young man or young woman to succeed at the academies. It takes an individual who is dedicated and highly motivated to excel through the rigorous academic and physical programs that prepare students to become a leader in our nation’s armed forces. It takes an individual who looks at a problem as an opportunity and views adversity as a challenge.

If you would like more information about applying for nomination to the entering class of 2011, please visit my website at www.lamarsmith.house.gov. Under the Constituent Services tab you will find a copy of the application and more detailed information about how to apply. All application materials for the entering class of 2011 must be postmarked by October 29, 2010.

I encourage any students who are interested to download the application from my website to start the process. If you have any questions, or need an application mailed to you, please contact my Kerrville office.

Serving in our armed forces is one of the greatest aspirations a young American can have and it is a great privilege of my job to nominate the exceptional young people who are eager to serve their nation.

Americans must always remember the sacrifices made by the members of our military, and be grateful for those who serve their country in a way that isn’t always easy, is often dangerous and demands the full measure of devotion.