Press Releases

Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) is proud to announce the nominations for military service academies from Texas’s 15th Congressional District for the 2^nd session of the 118^th Congress. These outstanding young men and women have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements, leadership qualities, and a strong commitment to serving our nation.

“This year’s nominees exemplify the best of South Texas,” said Congresswoman De La Cruz. “Their dedication, hard work, and aspirations to serve our country are truly inspiring. I am honored to support these future leaders as they pursue their dreams and prepare to defend the freedoms we hold dear.”

The following students have been nominated for appointment to the respective military academies:

United States Military Academy (West Point):

1. Gael D. Gama – IDEA Edinburg College Preparatory, Edinburg, TX
2. Julian M. Tamez – McAllen Memorial High School, McAllen, TX
3. Yosef J. Herrera – South Texas ISD Science Academy, Mission, TX
4. Diana Castillo – Juarez Lincoln High School, Mission, TX

United States Naval Academy:

1. Ava Ponce – Robert Vela High School, McAllen, TX
2. John T. Sandoval – New Mexico Military Institute, McAllen, TX
3. Colton W. Jones – Navarro High School, Seguin, TX
4. Emmanuel Martinez Jr. – South Texas ISD World Scholars, Edinburg, TX
5. Pedro Rios-Alvarez – IDEA Pharr College Preparatory, Hidalgo, TX
6. Robert M. Rodriguez – Alice High School, Alice, TX

United States Air Force Academy:

1. Juan Sanchez – Valley View High School, Pharr, TX
2. Adriana D. Noyola – Edinburg High School, Edinburg, TX
3. Jonathan Villarreal – Sharyland Pioneer High School, Mission, TX
4. Jorge A. Vasquez – Nikki Rowe High School, McAllen, TX
5. Sebastian R. Lugo – Sharyland Pioneer High School, Alton, TX
6. Sebastian G. Contreras – Sharyland Pioneer High School, Mission, TX

United States Merchant Marine Academy:

1. Gael D. Gama – IDEA Edinburg College Preparatory, Edinburg, TX

The nomination process for military service academies is highly competitive, with applicants evaluated based on their academic performance, leadership potential, extracurricular involvement, and commitment to service. Congresswoman De La Cruz extends her gratitude to the 2024 Academy Board for their efforts in reviewing applications and making recommendations for these prestigious nominations.