U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, announced on February 15 her nominations of New Yorkers to the nation’s leading service institutions – United States Air Force, Military, Naval and Merchant Marine Academies.

A selection committee formed by Gillibrand chose the nominees from a large group of qualified applicants. Decisions were based on criteria including academic record, leadership potential, and overall achievement. Final acceptance is determined solely by the service academies.

“Our service academies are distinguished by a devotion to honor, courage and commitment,” said Gillibrand. “I am honored to nominate these young, talented New Yorkers who exemplify these core values. It is my hope that the accomplished nominees have the chance to live their dreams and serve in our country’s armed forces with distinction.”

Gillibrand’s New York City nominees, including their hometown and academies:

Brian Laboy (Baychester, The Bronx) United States Naval Academy

Shannon Walsh (Gerritsen Beach, Brooklyn) United States Naval Academy

Peter McGurty (Marine Park, Brooklyn) United States Merchant Marine Academy

Chan Hee Kang (Bayside) United States Military Academy at West Point

Bradley Diaz (Jamaica) United States Air Force Academy

Pete Aragones (Long Island City) United States Merchant Marine Academy

Grace Dickman (Maspeth) United States Air Force Academy

Raymond Perniciaro (Middle Village) United States Air Force Academy

Shawn Park (Woodside) United States Merchant Marine Academy

Sasha Ortiz-Colon (Mariners Harbor, Staten Island) United States Merchant Marine Academy