Bentz honors Class of 2028 service academy appointments, announces opening of Class of 2029 nominating process

WASHINGTON (KTVZ) – Rep. Cliff Bentz (R-OR) has released the names of the seven individuals he nominated to be considered for attendance at our nation’s service academies who have accepted offers of appointment, while also announcing the nominating process for the Class of 2029.

The full list of students who received and then accepted offers of appointment are:

• Sean Donohue | Phoenix High School | United States Naval Academy
• Konnor Lilly | T.R. Robinson High School | United States Naval Academy Prep School
• Hunter Carpen | Madras High School | United States Air Force Academy
• Samuel Endicott | Vista Ridge High School, Lakeview | United States Merchant Marine Academy
• Connor Sam | The Dalles High School | United States Military Academy
• Wren Rambo | Crater Academy of Health and Public Service High School |United States Military Academy Prep School
• Timothy Paul | Osan Midde High School |United States Air Force Academy Falcon Foundation Scholarship

Bentz's statement:

"These men are true examples of leadership, academic excellence, high character, and strong patriotism.

"I wish Sean, Konnor, Hunter, Samuel, Connor, Wren, and Timothy the very best of luck in the upcoming year at their academies and in serving our great country. I am confident they will continue to make the Second Congressional District proud of them and their accomplishments."

Bentz also announced the annual process of nominating Oregon students to attend the nation's prestigious service academies for the upcoming Class of 2029.

"It is an honor to be a part of a process that supports young leaders from Oregon’s Second Congressional District who exemplify leadership, academic excellence, strong character, and patriotism towards our country," said Bentz.

Oregon’s Second Congressional District office nomination process is unique. The office assembles a Selection Board composed of retired and active-duty military officers from the district community. These veterans and active-duty military officers interview each student who is seeking a nomination from the Congressman.

Our nation's service academies recommend this approach to ensure transparency and fairness in congressional nominations. After conducting interviews, the Selection Board submits its recommendations to the Congressman for review and approval.

To be eligible for appointment for the Class of 2029, an applicant must be: a U.S. citizen; a legal resident of the 2nd Congressional District; at least 17 but not more than 23 years of age on July 1, 2025; single; and have no dependents. It is encouraged that applicants contact the academy (or academies) of their choice to request a pre-candidate questionnaire, which is the first step in the Admission Office’s evaluation.

For more information, please visit Bentz's website HERE.