Two Kankakee students accepted into U.S. Naval Academy
Congresswoman Robin Kelly announced today that Kankakee residents, Chase LaRoche and Vaughn Studer, have been offered appointments to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Both LaRoche and Studer say they intend to accept their appointments.
"The enthusiasm these young men have in their hearts for the opportunity to serve our country is inspiring. Chase and Vaughn represent a new generation of Americans who value the founding principles of our nation and are eager to preserve and defend our freedom. They will play a critical role during a time when our military is evolving to meet 21st Century national security challenges," Congresswoman Kelly said.
Chase LaRoche is the son of Bryan and Courtney LaRoche. Chase's grandfather, Jacob Fedrow, is a Navy veteran and his great grandfather, William Nagle, served in the Navy during World War II. Chase attends Kankakee High School and aspires to be a Navy SEAL. He is a High Honor Roll student, an Illinois State Scholar and will graduate in the top 20 of his class. Chase is a member of the Student Council, captain of the swim team and is a member of the school's baseball team.
"This is such an honor and a privilege to be accepted by this prestigious Academy," Chase said. "I cannot wait to further my education and to serve my country."
Vaughn Studer is the son of Melinda and Darin Studer, who is a Marine Corps veteran. He attends Bishop McNamara Catholic High School in Kankakee, where he will graduate first in his class. He is a member of the National Honors Society and his school's track and cross-country teams. Vaughn volunteers at the Manteno Veterans' Home. He started a community group initiative called "Dignity of the Deceased" to clean up a badly neglected cemetery at the old State Hospital in Kankakee. Vaughn attended NASA's Space Academy for students in Huntsville, Alabama, and aspires to be an astronaut.
"Attending the Naval Academy has been a lifelong dream of mine," Vaughn said. "I am thankful for the opportunity that Congresswoman Kelly has provided me with her nomination. I look forward to serving my country and community."
The academies have an extremely competitive application process and are ranked among the best colleges in America. Upon graduation, the cadets become U.S. military officers and typically serve at least five years in the armed services.
Each year, Congresswoman Kelly nominates eligible students from the 2nd Congressional District to attend our nation's four service academies: the U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and the U.S. Naval Academy. This year, Rep. Kelly nominated 11 students, more information about the nomination process and eligibility requirements can be found at /services/military-academy-nominations.
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