De La Cruz announces military academy nominations for Texas’s 15th district

Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz has announced the nominations for military service academies from Texas's 15th Congressional District for the second session of the 118th Congress. The nominees have shown remarkable academic achievements, leadership qualities, and a commitment to serving the nation.

"This year's nominees exemplify the best of South Texas," stated 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 nominated students include:

For the United States Military Academy (West Point):

- Gael D. Gama from IDEA Edinburg College Preparatory in Edinburg, TX

- Julian M. Tamez from McAllen Memorial High School in McAllen, TX

- Yosef J. Herrera from South Texas ISD Science Academy in Mission, TX

- Diana Castillo from Juarez Lincoln High School in Mission, TX

For the United States Naval Academy:

- Ava Ponce from Robert Vela High School in McAllen, TX

- John T. Sandoval from New Mexico Military Institute in McAllen, TX

- Colton W. Jones from Navarro High School in Seguin, TX

- Emmanuel Martinez Jr. from South Texas ISD World Scholars in Edinburg, TX

- Pedro Rios-Alvarez from IDEA Pharr College Preparatory in Hidalgo, TX

- Robert M. Rodriguez from Alice High School in Alice, TX

For the United States Air Force Academy:

- Juan Sanchez from Valley View High School in Pharr, TX

- Adriana D. Noyola from Edinburg High School in Edinburg, TX

- Jonathan Villarreal from Sharyland Pioneer High School in Mission, TX

- Jorge A. Vasquez from Nikki Rowe High School in McAllen, TX

- Sebastian R. Lugo and Sebastian G. Contreras both from Sharyland Pioneer High School with Lugo residing in Alton and Contreras residing in Mission.

For the United States Merchant Marine Academy:

- Gael D. Gama also received a nomination.

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