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June 18, 2025
Dear John,
Resilience, Discipline, and Strength on Display
At the start of fall, many high school graduates embark on a new journey at vocational schools, community colleges, or four-year universities. But a unique group of exceptional individuals begin their college experience in June at our military service academies. After receiving nominations from my office, eight strong young men and women accepted appointments to attend all five U.S. service academies.
Our backgrounds often inform our decisions in life. These appointees have been shaped by leaders and ambitions, even from a young age. Lexi Brandt from Custer has been dreaming of attending the Air Force Academy since seventh grade, and in just a few days, that dream will become a reality. Dylan Frank of Custer is the son of an Army helicopter pilot and is taking steps of his own to serve like his dad. Dylan is aiming to be a fixed-wing Navy aviator at the Naval Academy. Kevin Jung was born in South Korea and just completed his two years of compulsory service in the Republic of Korea Army. But as a Sioux Falls resident and United States citizen, he is restarting his military career as a plebe at West Point. Aubrey Fraasch of Milbank is the fourth generation in her family to serve, and she wants to become a pilot. She attended a military preparatory school last year and will study engineering at the Naval Academy this year. No matter what their background, their ambition is the same: serving their country.
Personal values and interests also lead us to choosing a specific path for our life. Gabriel Reeve of Piedmont has internalized the value of holding ideals above self-interest and will soon begin at the Naval Academy. Brody Weinmeister of Aberdeen has embodied high personal standards, integrity, and responsibility, the core principles of the Air Force Academy, which he will attend. Paige Willnerd of Summerset has volunteered with her local Disabled American Veterans chapter, which has shown her the sacrifices our servicemembers have made and has inspired her. She applied to all four academies and accepted her top choice, the Merchant Marine Academy, and is excited to serve her country in this way. Rowdy Baldwin of Pierre has spent years giving back to his community and attend the U.S. Military Academy in hopes of becoming a mechanical or combat engineer in the Army.
Additionally, Maverick Sutton, currently serving active duty at Ellsworth Air Force Base, will attend the Air Force Academy preparatory school in hopes to join the Air Force Chaplain Corps. Also attending the Air Force preparatory school will be Max Cook of Gregory. Both of his parents served in the military and now he feels it is his time to become a leader. Lincoln Mansfield of Hurley accepted a United States Naval Foundation scholarship, which provides a year of education and training before the Academy.
Just like any other university or college, these individuals will undertake rigorous coursework. But unlike other academic programs, their non-traditional college adventure begins with several weeks of basic military training. These programs demand resilience, discipline, and strength—qualities each of these students have already demonstrated in abundance. Their dedication and character are inspiring.
These young men and women will represent South Dakota with honor and distinction. Join me, their families, and communities in congratulating them on their appointments and thanking them for their willingness to serve our nation. Their commitment to our country is unwavering and South Dakota stands proudly behind them. |
