Cole Announces 2026 Military Academy Appointees

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Oklahoma - Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) announced the names of the 2026 Military Academy appointees from Oklahoma's Fourth District who received and accepted appointments for entry into one of our nation's prestigious military academies. These academies include the United States Air Force Academy, the United States Merchant Marine Academy, and the United States Naval Academy.

Congressman Cole, along with the help of his staff, selected these appointees by hand and met with them last week.

After meeting with the appointees, Congressman Cole said, "Those who answer the call to serve are our nation's finest - and that includes these eight young Oklahomans. I am so proud of these men and women for their choice to attend a challenging yet rewarding military academy. They really are some of the best and brightest and I have no doubt that they will go on to do amazing things serving our country as part of the Armed Forces."

The list below includes the names and high school information of the appointees, as well as the academies to which they have been appointed.

United States Air Force Academy

Brandon Heckethorn - Lone Grove High School

Tessa Inman - Lindsay High School

Simon Marchesano - Moore High School (Also was offered the U.S. Naval Academy)

Gregory Williams - Norman North High School

United States Merchant Marine Academy

Joseph McCormick - McCormick Home School

United States Naval Academy

Julianna Chesnut - Rush Springs High School (Also was offered U.S. Military Academy at West Point)

Gracie Ragland - Byng High School

Ezekiel Stoda - Blanchard High School (Also was offered U.S. Military Academy at West Point)