South OC Times

Congressman Darrell Issa has announced that six students from California's 48th Congressional District have received appointments to the U.S. Service Academies. These appointments are a significant step for high school seniors who aspire to serve in the military.

Issa stated, “On behalf of our community, I congratulate these remarkable young students on their distinguished appointments. I trust they will go on to serve this country with courage and commitment. We are all eager to see the illustrious leaders they will become.”

Each year, members of Congress nominate high school seniors for admission to various U.S. service academies, including the Air Force, Merchant Marine, Military, and Naval academies. The nominees were evaluated by a panel composed of local community members.

To celebrate the achievements of these students, Congressman Issa hosted a breakfast attended by the appointees' families and military community members.

The following students have been appointed:

**Air Force Academy:**

- **Kelsey Ko:** A resident of Temecula and soon-to-be graduate from ICL Academy. She is Team Captain of her tennis team and has earned an MVP award for her performance. Kelsey is also part of the National Honor Society.

- **Sawyer Dann:** Residing in Poway and graduating from Classical Academy High School, Sawyer participates in varsity Track and Field, Soccer, and Football. He is an Eagle Scout and a member of the National Honor Society.

**U.S. Military Academy/West Point:**

- **Jett Bunch:** From Murrieta and graduating from Vista Murrieta High School, Jett plays varsity Rugby and Football as Team Captain for both teams. He serves as Class President.

- **Timothy Ryu:** Living in Poway with graduation credentials from Poway High School, Timothy participated in Track and Field as well as Color Guard while attending the US Naval Sea Cadets program.

- **Elyor Muhammadiyev:** Elyor hails from Murrieta and graduated in 2023 from Murrieta High School where he was involved with the Naval Sea Cadet program.

**Merchant Marine Academy:**

- **Maximus Cruz:** A Julian resident attending Julian Union High School where he acts as Student Council Treasurer while playing varsity Football and Baseball.

These appointments reflect both academic excellence and leadership potential among young individuals committed to serving their country through military careers.