How to Write a Letter of Recommendation for the Naval Academy
Many young men and women dream of a career as an officer in the U.S. military. Some bright and highly motivated types even aspire to attend one of the three major service academies: the U.S. Military Academy at West Point (Army), the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis and the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. However, entrance to these prestigious officer training schools is very competitive and requires not just excellent grades and strong references, but candidates must also be nominated to attend by a local congressman, senator or the Vice President or President. Letters of recommendation are important both in convincing a congressman or senator to nominate a candidate and in the actual academy application process.
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Instructions
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Write a rough draft of the letter of recommendation first. The letter should include at least one paragraph discussing your relationship with the applicant, including the length of the relationship. The letter also should include two to three paragraphs discussing the positive qualities of the candidate, especially in terms of her character and integrity. Mention specific examples of volunteer work or other extracurricular activities demonstrating initiative and leadership potential.
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Write the final copy of the letter on a word processing program on a PC so you will be able to conveniently print it when you are done. This type of letter of recommendation is a formal letter and should have a top header with contact information (or be printed on letterhead stationery). The letter should be written in a formal style, addressed to: To whom it may concern -- unless otherwise requested -- and use a closing salutation, such as sincerely yours or best regards.
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Run a spell check after you have finished the letter. Proofread the letter before you save and print it.
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Print the letter on high-quality bond or other good quality paper. Use a laser printer or top end ink jet printer.
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Proofread the printed letter one more time for basic quality control.
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Tips & Warnings
Talk to the applicant you are writing the letter of recommendation for to see if she has any specific suggestions for what she would like you to include in the letter.
