Local students nominated to military service academies

Idaho’s congressional representatives announced their nominations of young Idahoans to the nation’s military academies. The nominees, by U.S. Sens. Mike Crapo and James Risch and U.S. Rep. Russ Fulcher, have demonstrated a strong commitment to leadership and service, showing that they have the potential to be the next generation of leaders.

U.S. Sen. Mike Crapo

“These 38 Idahoans have indicated an admirable willingness to serve their country and pursue a higher education at one of our nation’s premier military academies,” said Crapo. “Academies will train our best and brightest and produce America’s future military leaders, equipping them to combat threats against our country at home and abroad. These top-tier students have much to be proud of, and I look forward to seeing their continued successes from their hard work.”

Crapo’s student nominees from Kootenai County:

• U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y. — Avonlea Hotine, Post Falls; Jayden Lavecchia, Post Falls; Austin Mahnke
• U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado — Hannah Hoatson, Coeur d'Alene

U.S. Sen. James Risch

“I am proud to nominate some of Idaho’s finest to our nation’s service academies,” said Risch. “Each of these Idaho students showcase leadership, character, academic promise and a commitment to our incredible nation. I commend them for their desire to serve.”

Risch’s student nominees from Kootenai County:

• U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y. — Hannah Hoatson, Coeur d'Alene; Avonlea Hotine, Post Falls; and Austin Mahnke, Post Falls
• U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis, Md. — Avonlea Hotine, Post Falls

U.S. Rep. Russ Fulcher of Idaho's First District

"It is an honor and a privilege to nominate these exceptional young people to our nation's service academies," said Congressman Russ Fulcher. "I am confident that they will continue to make Idaho proud as they serve our country and protect our freedom. I wish them all the best as they embark on this exciting journey."

Fulcher’s student nominees from Kootenai County:

U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y. — Hannah Hoatson, Coeur d'Alene; Jayden LaVecchia, Post Falls; and Austin Mahnke, Post Falls

U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis, Md. — Austin Mahnke, Post Falls

U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado — Hannah Hoatson, Coeur d'Alene; and Avonlea Hotine, Post Falls

The U.S. service academies will review the students’ applications and make final decisions on admittance.