Ocean County Leader

At a ceremony at RWJBarnabas Health Community Medical Center in Toms River, Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) recognized and honored eight students from the Fourth Congressional District whom he nominated to join the Class of 2028 at the US military service academies.

“I join your parents, family, and friends in congratulating each of you on a truly remarkable achievement—you have all been chosen to represent the Fourth Congressional District at one of the prestigious United States Service Academies,” said Smith. He presented each cadet with an American flag flown over the US Capitol in their honor.

“Most of you haven’t even graduated high school yet—just a few more days to go—but you are eagerly looking ahead to your next chapter, leading other men and women in uniform in the defense of our nation,” Smith added.

The students honored at the ceremony and their respective academies include:

· Jake Blomquist from Spring Lake—US Military Academy at West Point;

· John “Jay” Graham from Toms River—US Military Academy at West Point;

· Robert Maravelias from Colts Neck—US Military Academy at West Point;

· Emily Wilczek from Forked River—US Military Academy at West Point;

· Nicholas Volkov from Tinton Falls—US Naval Academy;

· Declan Leary from Lincroft—US Naval Academy;

· Gerard Flynn from Eatontown—US Merchant Marine Academy; and

· Matthew Gauthier from Forked River—US Merchant Marine Academy.

“I—we, all of us—deeply respect the hard work that got you here,” said Smith. “We all know that it will take persistence, commitment, courage and devotion to God and country to succeed—and succeed you will.”

Among the distinguished guests was keynote speaker Colonel Elizabeth Hanson, Commander of the 305th Air Mobility Wing at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. Hanson shared leadership lessons gathered from her 25 years in uniformed service.

Smith also thanked the families for supporting their loved ones' mission to serve. “A strong and well-trained military with a world-class officer corps is key to deterring aggression... The deterrence makes Americans and our allies safer,” he stated.

“As each of you become leaders of the most important fighting force on earth, know that our hopes and prayers are with you,” Smith concluded.

Each year, Smith hosts an Academy information night where students can apply for nomination consideration. For more information, visit Congressman Smith’s Academy Information Page.

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