U.S. Senator Katie Britt Nominates 14 Birmingham-Area Students to Service Academies, Applauds Students as Academic Year Begins

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) celebrated 14 students from the Birmingham area whom she nominated to attend our nation's service academies at the start of their academic year. These students have courageously answered the call to serve and will help protect and preserve our nation's freedom.

"I applaud these exceptional students who have chosen a path that exhibits their courage, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to service," said Senator Britt. "Their nominations reflect not only years of hard work and leadership, but also a willingness to take on this incredible responsibility of serving our great nation. These Alabamians are the next generation of America's military leaders, and I am thrilled to celebrate this remarkable achievement alongside their friends, family, and community."

Senator Britt's nominees who will attend the U.S. Air Force Academy are listed below:

• Eden Christian, Trussville
• Beau Dionne, Birmingham
• Justin Harbin, Vance
• J.R. Sosa, Clanton

"I'm proud to see Eden, Beau, Justin, and J.R. join the ranks of the men and women who honorably serve our Air Force. I have no doubt their service will keep our nation secure from threats above and will preserve our precious American freedoms," said Senator Britt.

Senator Britt's nominees who will attend the U.S. Naval Academy are listed below:

• Olivia Carroll, Vestavia
• Boyd Cooper, Birmingham
• Holman Gray, Birmingham
• Maggie Ingram, McCalla
• Truman Lee, Birmingham
• Braden Little, Birmingham
• Benny Schmidt, Hoover

"The U.S. Naval Academy is gaining seven outstanding young men and women. I was deeply proud to nominate Olivia, Boyd, Holman, Maggie, Truman, Braden, and Benny, and I am encouraged by their patriotism, heart for service, and willingness to serve our nation," said Senator Britt.

Senator Britt's nominees who will attend West Point are listed below:

• Jack Beason, Hoover
• Joshua Hahn, Vestavia
• Kate Seidel, Vinemont

"As Jack, Joshua, and Kate begin their next steps at West Point, I am thrilled to know that this academy is gaining three outstanding young individuals. Their service will undoubtedly ensure our nation's values of freedom, democracy, and independence are upheld for generations to come," said Senator Britt.

You can view the headshots of all 14 nominees here. You can find more information on the application process for a service academy nomination from Senator Britt here. Applications for the 2026-2027 cycle open on August 15, 2026.

In total, 31 students from across the state of Alabama nominated by Senator Britt will attend U.S. service academies this fall.

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