Gluesenkamp Perez Announces, Sends Off Service Academy Appointees for Class of 2029

Today, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) announced six of her nominees from across Washington’s Third District have been appointed to attend a United States service academy.

In January, Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez nominated each of these students based on their exceptional leadership, extracurricular, and academic accomplishments. Afterward, they received and accepted appointment offers from their respective academies and began military training this summer.

This spring, the Congresswoman hosted a send-off dinner for the appointees and their families to get to know them, talk about their future goals, and show her appreciation for their dedication to service.

“Our service academy appointees, as well as their families, made sacrifices to be the type of candidates we would be proud to have represent us in our Armed Forces. It’s a privilege to honor their accomplishments, as well as their dedication to defending our freedoms,” said Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez. “I’m glad I could help give them a warm sendoff and thank them for their commitment to serving our country. Each of these exceptional students will represent Southwest Washington well, and I’m excited to keep up with their ongoing successes.”

Students looking to apply for a service academy should begin the application process toward the end of their junior year of high school. Applications for the next cycle are now open until November 9, 2025, and more information is available on Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez’s website.

Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez nominated the following students who were selected to attend a U.S. service academy this year:

Nathaniel Beaver – U.S. Military Academy at West Point
Seton Catholic Preparatory High School

Nathaniel Beaver of Vancouver will be attending the U.S. Military Academy. He was inspired by his father and brother, who graduated from and serve at West Point, respectively. He wants to make a positive impact in people’s lives, such as the figures in his life have for him.

Nathaniel has demonstrated consistent leadership and academic excellence, serving as his school’s Spirit Coordinator Officer, a Leadership Member for ASB, and a member of National Honor Society, with participation in three varsity sports. The service, camaraderie, and rigor at West Point motivated him to attend.

Luke Wagner – U.S. Military Academy at West Point
Camas High School

Luke Wagner of Washougal will be attending the U.S. Military Academy. His interest in service was sparked by hearing from his parents about their careers in the military, and he is interested in studying engineering, as did his father and grandfather.

Luke has proven his leadership as an assistant youth wrestling coach, preschool teaching assistant, and Varsity Knowledge Bowl Team Captain. He has helped build historic bridges for Civil War reenactments, and he is motivated to serve and grow as a part of a team.

Layla Melville – U.S. Air Force Academy
Ridgefield High School
U.S. Air Force Preparatory School

Layla Melville of Ridgefield will be attending the U.S. Air Force Academy. At the U.S. Air Force Preparatory School, she earned the Deputy Director’s Pin in recognition of her academic and military achievements, and she is eager to continue to grow as a leader by attending a service academy.

Layla has demonstrated her commitment to service as a Vice President of National Honor Society and as a volunteer for young athletes and at her church. She played varsity tennis and soccer, and she is proud to be the first enrolled member of the Makah Nation to attend a military academy.

Ayden Henley – U.S. Naval Academy
Monteverde Academy

Ayden Henley of Stevenson will be attending the U.S. Naval Academy. After his experiences living in several countries, with a parent in the foreign service, Ayden wants to serve to bridge gaps between communities.

Ayden is a three-time All-American athlete, speaks five languages, and has demonstrated strong leadership and volunteerism. He would like to become a pilot and assist with humanitarian missions and disaster relief.

Garrett Nebels – U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
Seton Catholic Preparatory High School

Garrett Nebels of Vancouver will be attending the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Garrett believes that more young people need to step up and serve our country, and is drawn to the work, honor, and discipline that comes with service.

Garrett was a captain of his high school’s varsity football and baseball teams, Vice President of the National Honor Society, and has spent more than 130 hours serving his community as a High School Retreat Leader and through Courts for Kids. He is known for his strong work ethic, discipline, and thoughtfulness.

Elijah Wall – U.S. Naval Academy
Seton Catholic Preparatory High School
Embry Riddle Aeronautical University

Elijah Wall of Vancouver will be attending the U.S. Naval Academy. He draws inspiration from his father, who was a Marine – and at age 11, Elijah enthusiastically joined his local Sea Cadet, where he worked toward his dream of attending the Naval Academy. He most recently attended Embry Riddle Aeronautical University to prepare for life as a midshipman.

Elijah was awarded the 2024 Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Award, reflecting his deep commitment to faith, community, and service. He has spent more than 200 hours volunteering in high school, and he is drawn to the Naval Academy to grow as a leader, military officer, and community member.