Washington, DC – Congressman Frank Lucas would like to congratulate Guthrie native Ryan Bilyeu for his acceptance of appointment at the United States Military Academy at West Point.  Bilyeu will be a member of the West Point class of 2014 and will begin classes there in the fall.

“I would like to congratulate Ryan on his selection to the United States Military Academy at West Point,” stated Lucas.  “His selection is not only a testament to his hard work, but it also demonstrates what capable and determined students we have in the Third District of Oklahoma.  This is a great opportunity for Ryan, and I wish him luck this fall and continued success in all his endeavors.”

In May, Bilyeu completed one year at the U.S. Military Academy Preparatory School after having graduated from Guthrie High School in 2009.  While at Guthrie High School Talley was a member of the National Honors Society, student government, and the wrestling team.  He continued to wrestle at the U.S. Military Academy Preparatory School and will wrestle at West Point next year.  His parents are Kelly and Crystal Bilyeu of Guthrie, Oklahoma and Paul and Susan Carlson of Guthrie, Oklahoma.  His grandparents are Sheila Bilyeu of Guthrie Oklahoma and Gene and Mary-Lou Gaither of Kingfisher, Oklahoma.

Four of our nation’s five service academies require a congressional nomination, including the United States Air Force Academy, the Merchant Marine Academy, the United States Military Academy at West Point, and the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis.  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 once they graduate.  For more information on service academy nominations, please visit Congressman Lucas’ website at /service-academy-nominations. 

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