Washington, DC – Congressman Frank Lucas would like to congratulate Ponca City native Carol Southard for her acceptance of appointment at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado.  Carol will be a member of the Air Force class of 2015 and will begin classes there in the fall.

“Congratulations to Carol on her selection to the United States Air Force Academy,” said Lucas. “I’m proud to have nominated Carol, her hard work and determination is a prime example of the capable and determined students we have in the Third District of Oklahoma. This a great opportunity for Carol, and I wish her the best of luck and continued success in all her future endeavors.”

In May, Carol will graduate as salutatorian from Ponca City High School. She serves as a member of the marching and concert bands, symphonic orchestra and National Honor Society. Her parents are Mr. and Mrs. Mark Southard of Ponca City, Oklahoman. Her grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. Glen Brinson of Ponca City, Oklahoma, and Mr. and Mrs. Mike Southard of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Four of our nation’s five service academies require a congressional nomination, including the United States Military Academy at West Point, the Merchant Marine Academy, the Air Force Academy, and the Naval Academy.  In order to receive a nomination, the student must be between the ages of 17 and 23 and a resident of the Third Congressional District of Oklahoma.  Each academy offers young men and women a free college education at a highly ranked, nationally recognized academic program while preparing them for an officer’s commission in the armed forces upon graduation.  For more information on service academy nominations, please visit Congressman Lucas’ website at https://lucas.house.gov/serving-you/military-academy-nominations.

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