Ceres High School student Elijah Stugelmeyer has been nominated by Congressman Jeff Denham to compete for appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.

Denham nominated 25 students from cities across the 10th Congressional District to apply for the nation's prestigious military academies.

"One of my greatest honors representing the Valley is nominating these young men and women to our nation's service academies," said Rep. Denham. "Their patriotism and commitment to our country's future is commendable, and I look forward to seeing their accomplishments in the years to come."

Students were nominated to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., the United States Military Academy in West Point, N.Y., the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo. and the United States Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, N.Y.

Students seeking attendance at one of the military academies must be nominated by a U.S. Representative, U.S. Senator or the Vice President. Nominees are selected through a rigorous application and interview process and are chosen based on factors including academic achievement, leadership ability, physical aptitude, participation in extra-curricular activities and demonstration of character. Students may seek acceptance to more than one academy. The U.S. Coast Guard Academy does not require a nomination to attend.

Academy students commit to serving in the military for a minimum of five years active duty upon graduation. If their nominations are accepted, students will receive notice from the individual service academies in April 2017.