GAINESVILLE, GA — Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) announced Blue Ridge Service Academy Day, an upcoming informative event designed to help Ninth District students and their families learn about the five U.S. Service Academies and the congressional nomination process.

“As a Navy combat veteran, I deeply appreciate assisting young Georgians in their journey to military service,” said Clyde. “Receiving a nomination to one of our nation’s prestigious military academies is a high honor, and I am proud to help support and navigate folks through this exciting opportunity. I highly encourage all students who are interested in attending a U.S. Service Academy to join our Blue Ridge Service Academy Day event to obtain key insight into the congressional nomination process.”

Each year, Congressman Clyde nominates eligible candidates for appointment to four of the five U.S. Service Academies: U.S. Military Academy (USMA), West Point, NY; the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA), Annapolis, MD; the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA), Colorado Springs, CO; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA), Kings Point, NY. The fifth academy, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA), New London, CT, does not require a congressional nomination for appointment.

Next month, Rep. Clyde will host Blue Ridge Service Academy Day, in partnership with Reps. Chuck Edwards (NC-11) and Sheri Biggs (SC-03), to provide students, parents, and school counselors with the information and resources needed to navigate the nomination and appointment process.

Details for Rep. Clyde’s Blue Ridge Service Academy Day

Date: Thursday, February 19th, 2026

Time: 5:30 PM

Location: Rabun County High School Auditorium

230 Wildcat Hill Drive, Tiger, GA

Students interested in seeking a future congressional nomination may find more information and access the application on Rep. Clyde’s website.