WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Jeff Denham (R-Turlock) announced the 2012 service academy nominees from California’s 19th Congressional District; one of those nominated is a Yosemite High School (YHS) student.
David R. Nobles, of Oakhurst, was nominated by Rep. Denham to the U.S. Air Force Academy in December. Nobles is a senior at YHS.“These young students represent our state’s best, and I’m proud to nominate them to our nation’s military academies,” Rep. Dehman stated. “It’s truly inspiring that so many young and talented Californians desire to serve our nation by joining the armed forces. This dedicated group will surely lead our country to a brighter future.”
Only a U.S. Representative, U.S. Senator or Vice President of the U.S. can nominate a student to four out of five of the country’s armed service academies, according to Rep. Denham’s office.
Factors for nomination include a rigorous application and interview process, along with academic achievements, extra-curricular activities, leadership skills, physical aptitude, character and motivation were taken into consideration.
Nobles’ family is clearly thrilled by this achievement. Nobles is the second oldest in a family of five children, blended through adoption.
“We are bursting, we’re so proud and happy,” says Nobles’ mom, Susan. “He has worked so hard.”
Nobles recently toured the Air Force Academy and “shadowed” a Cadet for the day. The diligent young student, who plans to become an aeronautical engineer, was home-schooled through 9th grade, joining students at YHS in 10th grade.
“He has had fabulous teachers at the high school,” reports Susan. While hundreds of students apply for positions in the elite service academies, relatively few are nominated for the chance to enroll.
“It’s a process,” Susan says of the procedures that lead to admittance in the U.S. Air Force Academy, “this is one door of many doors.” The family remains cautiously optimistic that all the right doors will open wide for David and agree that the honor at this time, is in the nomination.
