"> Skip To Content

Media

May 30, 2023 | Press Releases

U.S. Rep. Greg Steube Congratulates FL-17 Students Appointed to U.S. Military Academies

SARASOTA — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today congratulated six students from Florida’s 17th Congressional District who received appointments to United States Service Academies. Rep. Steube nominated seventeen individuals in November.

“One of my greatest honors as a U.S. Representative is to nominate outstanding students to attend the United States Service Academies,” Rep. Greg Steube said. “I commend these six students from FL-17 who chose to serve our country and were appointed after a competitive selection process. I know each of them will do great things for our country!”

Rep. Steube joined the appointees and their parents at a congratulatory luncheon hosted by his office on Tuesday. 

Isabella Violette of Sebring High School has been appointed to the U.S. Air Force Academy. Violette is a four year recipient of the Principal’s List, the Group Commander of JROTC, and a member of the marching band. Violette has completed over 200 hours of community service. 

Darwin “Max” Hale of Pine View School has been appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy. Hale is a varsity weightlifter and received 3rd place at the 2022 FHSAA District Championships. Hale has a black belt in Tae Kwon Do.

Brian O’Leary of Jesuit High School has been appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy. O’Leary is a World Champion Rower and has won several rowing titles. O’Leary plays the violin and will become the 4th generation to serve our country.

Kai Cameron of Venice High School has been appointed to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Cameron participated in Future Business Leaders of America and National Conference. Cameron is a talented baseball player and will be the 2nd generation to serve our country. 

Galen Crusan of Venice High School has been appointed to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Crusan participated in JRTOC, Marksmanship and Orienteering. Crusan graduated high school in 2022 and currently attends State College of Florida. 

Elliot Chamberlain of International Baccalaureate at Bartow High School has been appointed to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.  Chamberlain participated in varsity marching band and will be the 2nd generation to serve our country.

You can learn more about the service academy nomination process here.