Congressman Moran Honors Six East Texas Students at Service Academy Nominees Brunch

TX-01 nominees recognized for earning appointments to the nation's most prestigious military institutions

On Saturday, May 16, 2026, Congressman Nathaniel Moran (TX-01) hosted his annual Service Academy Nominees Brunch to honor six outstanding young men and women from East Texas who have earned appointments to the United States' most prestigious military service academies.

The brunch brought together the nominees, their families, and community leaders to celebrate the achievements of these exceptional students and the beginning of their journeys in service to our nation.

"Serving our country in uniform is not a decision anyone makes lightly, and the young men and women we honored today understand exactly what they're signing up for," said Congressman Moran. "They've already demonstrated the character, the work ethic, and the heart for service that our military demands. East Texas has always answered the call when our nation needs it most, and this class carries that tradition forward. I'm grateful to their families for raising the kind of young people our country needs, and I look forward to watching them lead."

This year's class of nominees from the 1st Congressional District of Texas represents the best of East Texas. Each student endured a demanding application process that tested their academic achievement, physical fitness, leadership, and character. Their appointments reflect not only their individual merit but also the strong families, schools, and communities that shaped them.

2026 SERVICE ACADEMY NOMINEES

Nora Ni

United States Military Academy - West Point, NY

Brook Hill High School

"Applying to the service academies was a journey of endurance and consistency, and I am deeply grateful for the support from my family, teachers, mentors, and Congressman Moran's office in this endeavor. It is truly an honor and a privilege to give back in service to our nation alongside such an exceptional team. I know the years ahead won't be easy, but I am excited to face the challenges because I know they will build my capacity to serve and lead."

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Brock Sieber

United States Air Force Academy - Colorado Springs, CO

Grace Community High School

"Applying for the service academies has been a rigorous and long process but my hard work has paid off. My desire to serve my country has given me the discipline to overcome the challenges that come with the process. There is no greater sacrifice for the ones I love than to dedicate my life to protecting all Americans. I am beyond grateful to be given the opportunity to serve God, my community, the state of Texas, and the United States of America in the Air Force."

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James Thomson

United States Naval Academy - Annapolis, MD

Hendrix College

"I feel extremely honored to get this opportunity to serve my country. The application process has been long, yet undoubtedly worthwhile. I look forward to contributing my best and becoming part of a lifelong family."

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Brooks Frans

United States Naval Academy - Annapolis, MD

Bishop Gorman High School

"I believe that service means giving myself and my talents for the good of others. Throughout the admissions process, I learned more on my own work process and the guidance God gives through His plan. In all, I believe that I am well prepared to serve as a midshipman at the United States Naval Academy."

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Jayden Riley

United States Air Force Academy Preparatory School - Colorado Springs, CO

Atlanta High School

"Applying to the United States Air Force Academy has been a journey of discipline, growth, and purpose for me. It has shown me what it truly means to commit to something bigger than myself. To me, serving my country isn't just about wearing the uniform-it's about leading with integrity and putting others before myself every day. It's an honor and a responsibility I don't take lightly."

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Matthew Scheusner

United States Merchant Marine Academy - Kings Point, NY

Tyler Legacy High School

"The application experience itself separated the wheat from the chaff-those who could finish the application and those who couldn't. I'm very grateful to everyone who helped me finish the application and then being accepted on top of that. I want to give back to my community-the great city of Tyler and its mentors-which helped me get to where I am today. To do so, I am going to honor them by serving my country and one day invest in the next generation like they did for me."

Members of Congress may nominate candidates for appointment to four of the five U.S. service academies: the U.S. Military Academy (West Point, NY), the U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis, MD), the U.S. Air Force Academy (Colorado Springs, CO), and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (Kings Point, NY). Each member may nominate up to fifteen individuals for each vacant academy slot allotted to their district.

Students interested in pursuing a service academy nomination from Congressman Moran's office may begin the process during their junior year of high school by contacting the district office at (903) 561-6349 and asking to speak with the Service Academy Coordinator.

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