CHICAGO, IL – U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (D-IL) announced today that his office has begun accepting applications for nominations to the U.S. Service Academies for the 2010-2011 year. Current high school seniors who are interested in attending one of the academies are required to obtain a recommendation from an authorized nominating source, such as a U.S. Senator or U.S. Representative.

“I salute our young men or women for their dedication to their education and our country,” said Rep. Quigley. “The honor of attending an academy comes with an obligation and commitment to serve, and I look forward to being a part of this important process.”

Members of Congress may nominate applicants who meet the eligibility requirements established by law to be considered for an appointment to one of the Service Academies. Academies include the U.S. Military Academy at West Point at New York, U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland, U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York.

Complete applications must be received by Rep. Quigley’s office no later than December 4, 2009. To ensure fairness, an independent board of review will assess and interview the applicants.

Interested applicants may contact Rosetta Sexton in Rep. Quigley’s office at (773) 267-5926 for more information or visit his Web site (www.quigley.house.gov) to download the application and read answers to Frequently Asked Questions about eligibility and process.