WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, has announced her nominations for candidates from the Hudson Valley to three of the nation’s service academies: the United States Military Academy, the United States Air Force Academy, and the United States Naval Academy.

“It is my distinct honor to nominate some of the best and brightest individuals from the Hudson Valley to the nation’s service academies,” said Gillibrand. “These young leaders have demonstrated exemplary academic achievement and dedication to their communities and nation. I look forward to seeing all that they achieve, and I thank them for their commitment to our country.”

A selection committee formed by the senator chose the nominees from a large group of qualified applicants. Decisions were based on criteria including academic record, leadership potential, and overall achievement. Final acceptance is determined solely by the service academies.

Upon graduation, they will be commissioned officers in the United States armed services.

This year, Senator Gillibrand nominated 11 candidates from the Hudson Valley to the service academies.

  • Ronald Bolte (Pearl River, Rockland Co.) — United States Military Academy
  • Charlene Conkey (West Point, Orange Co.) — United States Military Academy
  • Lila Sinacori (Campbell Hall, Orange Co.) — United States Military Academy
  • Yashica Bala (Scarsdale, Westchester Co.) — United States Naval Academy
  • Abigail Bennett (Pearl River, Rockland Co.) — United States Naval Academy
  • Mary Katherine DeBono (West Nyack, Rockland Co.) — United States Naval Academy
  • Robert Holstine (New City, Rockland Co.) — United States Naval Academy
  • Lucas O’Connor (Croton-on-Hudson, Westchester Co.) — United States Air Force Academy
  • William O’Hara (Cold Spring, Putnam Co.) — United States Air Force Academy
  • Claire Wagner (Poughkeepsie, Dutchess Co.) — United States Air Force Academy
  • Frank Zingg (Rye, Westchester Co.) — United States Air Force Academy


Original article