How to Write My Congressman to Join the Military

Members of Congress nominate candidates to the five United States Military Academies.

Every year, members of Congress nominate young Americans, between the ages of 17 and 23 to the nation's military academies. Academy members commit to serve in the military for five years after graduation. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, unmarried, not pregnant, and able to meet the physical, medical and academic requirements for the academies. The best way to apply to the academy is to visit your Congress member's website. Each site contains application information, or you may request a copy by calling the member's office.

Instructions

1. Visit the website for your member of Congress by visiting the website for the House of Representatives. Enter your zip code and press "Go."

2. Click the link that gives information about academy nominations. For example, on the website for Congressman Hank Johnson, the link is located under "Constituent Service." The application instructions will be listed. Download the application by right-clicking on the link and clicking "Save As." Name the file and click "Save."

3. Write down the phone number to the Congressman's office. The number will be located on the front page of the Member's site, or on a contact page.

4. Call the office for help in filling out the application and to receive instructions for submitting the application. Be prepared to submit your personal information, SAT and ACT scores, transcripts, preferred service academy and letters of recommendation.

5. Submit the completed applications according to the instructions on the application, or given to you by a member of the Congressman's staff.

References

• Policy Archive: Congressional Nominations to U.S. Service Academies
• Congressman Hank Johnson: Academy Nominations

Resources

• House of Representatives: Find Your Representative