Congressman Davis Holds Service Academy Dinner Honoring NC-01 Appointees
Rocky Mount, N.C. - On Wednesday, June 18, Congressman Don Davis (NC-01) hosted a Service Academy Dinner at his Rocky Mount district office. The event celebrated a group of exceptional young high school graduates from eastern North Carolina who received appointments to the United States Military Service Academies.
[Front row, from left: Leonardo Fletcher-Fontana, and Congressman Don Davis. Back row, from left: Abel Dees, Nicholas Santiago, and Parker Stokes. Not pictured: Dylan Sawyer]
“These young leaders represent the very best of eastern North Carolina,” said Congressman Davis. “Their drive, discipline, and desire to serve our country inspire us all. It was a true honor to recognize their hard work and celebrate this milestone with their families.”
The dinner highlighted the achievements of each appointee and recognized the rigorous process required for nomination and acceptance into the academies.
Abel Dees of Nash County and Parker Stokes of Pitt County, appointed to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, were honored for their academic excellence, high GPAs and test scores, and strong leadership in student government and athletics. Leonardo Fletcher-Fontana of Pitt County will attend the U.S. Air Force Academy. He was recognized for his JROTC leadership and dedication to mental health advocacy and community service. Nicholas Antonio Santiago of Perquimans County, appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy, was celebrated for achievements in academics, athletics, the arts, and volunteerism, including service as a part-time firefighter. Dylan Sawyer of Pitt County, also appointed to the Naval Academy, was acknowledged in absentia for academic distinction at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics and his involvement in STEM, leadership programs, and youth engagement.
The evening concluded with a message of gratitude from the Congressman to the families and communities supporting these students.
“Behind every appointee is a circle of support: parents, teachers, coaches, and mentors, who have helped them reach this point,” said Congressman Davis. “We all know these students will go on to do wonderful things in the future.”
Congressman Davis can nominate students to four U.S. service academies: West Point, Naval, Air Force, and Merchant Marine; the Coast Guard Academy does not require a nomination. A nomination is required but does not guarantee admission. These academies offer a full scholarship in exchange for military service after graduation.
For more information about service academies, please contact (252) 999-7600.
Congressman Don Davis serves as the vice ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee and sits on the Subcommittees on Tactical Air and Land Forces and Readiness. He graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1994 and is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force.
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