ALLENTOWN, P.A. – As the 2023-2024 school year begins, Congresswoman Susan Wild congratulates the eight students who accepted appointments to attend four United States Military Academies. The academies include the United States Military Academy (West Point), United States Naval Academy (USNA), United States Air Force Academy (USAFA), and United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA). Nominated by Rep. Wild last year, these students underwent a competitive application and appointment process and will join the Class of 2027.
“It is my honor to have nominated these dedicated, hardworking, accomplished young members of our community to join our exceptional military academies,” said Congresswoman Susan Wild. “Their desire to serve our country is admirable and a testament to their leadership and commitment to public service. Our future is very bright thanks to all of them.”
Rep. Wild’s Class of 2027 appointees from Pennsylvania’s Seventh District include:
United States Military Academy (West Point):
Madison C. Woodward, Macungie, PA
Madison is the daughter of Gregory and Natalie. Gregory was a specialist in the U.S. Army and served in Iraq. Throughout her career at Emmaus High School, Madison was a dedicated athlete on the soccer field and student in the classroom. She was team captain her senior year, team MVP in 2021, and the Tommy Gray Award recipient in 2020. In 2021, Madison was also selected for the EPC All Star 1st Team, the Morning Call All Area 1st Team, and the ECCNL U16 North Atlantic 1st Team All-Conference. Off the field, Madison was president of the Pediatric Cancer Club, a Walk Committee Volunteer for Autism Speaks, and a member of the National Honor Society.
Sydney R. Bennett, Wind Gap, PA
Sydney is the daughter of Robert and Holly. During her time at Bethlehem Catholic High School, Sydney has showcased incredible leadership in the classroom, on the stage, and as an athlete. She was on the varsity Cross Country team since 2021. She served as co-captain of Band Front in 2021 and captain of Flag Squad in 2022. She was a lead in two of her school’s musicals and was a member of her school’s choir. She was the President of National Honor Society, the Model UN Team Captain, and finished in the top ten of her graduating class.
William Barrett, Schnecksville, PA
William is the son of Judy and Joseph. While at Parkland High School, he was involved in indoor and outdoor track as well as National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, and National Science Honor Society. William was a recipient of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Leadership Award and the Congressional Gold Medal. Notably, William has been a Boy Scout for most of his life, has held many leadership positions, and became an Eagle Scout in 2019.
Abigail L. Duyssen, Bangor, PA
Abigail is the daughter of Bethann and Jeffrey. She excelled in all areas of student life at Bangor Area High School. Abigail was ranked first in her class, won the Harvath Science Award, and was consistently First Honor Roll. She was a member of the varsity Tennis team, was the Ecology Club Vice President, the Scholastic Scrimmage Captain, Literary Magazine Co-Editor, and President of the National Honor Society. Outside of school, Abigail is a volunteer for several community organizations.
United States Naval Academy (USNA)
Kylie Heinze, Allentown, PA
Kylie is the daughter of Michele and James. Throughout her time at Central Catholic High School, she has been exceptionally involved and driven as Red Cross club President, member of Pep Club, a BFF Club Peer, a Student Council Representative, a member of National Honor Society, and a Viking Ambassador. She participated in varsity Tennis and Track. Outside of school, Kylie has volunteered with organizations such as the Lehigh Valley Hospital, Central City Project, and the St. Thomas More Church.
United States Air Force Academy (USAFA)
Aidan Fleming, Easton, PA
Aidan is the son of Brett and Alison and attended Easton Area High School. Aidan served as captain of his school’s Volleyball and Golf team his senior year. He was a member of the National Honor Society, the Key Club, the Spanish Honor Society, the Computer Science Club, and Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). He ranked in the top ten percent of his class and consistently made honor roll. He has volunteered with the Palmer Community Center, at Easton Area High School events, and at Forks Community Center.
Jake P. Doone, Nazareth, PA
Jake is the son of James and Angela. Throughout his time at Nazareth Area High School, he has been an enthusiastic and encouraging member of the student body. He was a member of the Wrestling team and was the leader of the student section for Nazareth. Outside of athletics, he was also a member of National Honor Society and Student Government Club.
United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA):
Michael Cook, Reinholds, PA
Michael is the son of Mary and Michael. He is tremendously involved in his community and attended Lancaster Country Day School. Michael is a dedicated athlete as a member of the MLS NEXT Academy and a member of the varsity basketball team. In school, he was the co-founder and officer of the Economics Club, a school ambassador, and a member of the sports club. He also volunteers with many local organizations such as food pantries, homeless shelters, and a nonprofit skatepark association.
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