“You will become part of the 1 percent if you decide to pursue this,” MacDill Airforce Base Commander Colonel Scott DeThomas said to encourage a crowd of more than 100 students as he kicked off the program for Academy Day 2013.

U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor hosts Academy Day every year to give local students an opportunity to learn more about the service academies as they prepare their applications and seek a competitive nomination from Rep. Castor. It is one of the largest Academy Day events held in Florida.

“Our nation's academies offer incredible academic and career opportunities. I am proud to meet the best and brightest students who are interested in serving America and attending a service academy.,” Rep. Castor said. During the program, Rep. Castor also held a moment of silence to remember her colleague, U.S. Rep. Bill Young, who represented Pinellas County and passed away yesterday. 

Cadet Captain Gabby Mangru graduated from Alonso High School in Hillsborough County and received a nomination from Rep. Castor to attend the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.

“I was in your seat four years ago,” she said. “The academy is not a fallback option. But if you want this and you’re tenacious enough, it’ll be well worth it.” 

Applications for a nomination from Rep. Castor must be submitted by Oct. 28, 2013.

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