06/19/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 06/20/2026 13:31
BENTONVILLE, Arkansas-June 20, 2026…Today, Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) hosted his annual picnic honoring Third District students who accepted Offers of Appointment to U.S. military service academies this year, as well as 2026 military service academy graduates from the district.
Congressman Womack said, "It is one of my highest honors as Congressman for Arkansas's Third District to nominate bright, determined, and selfless students who will be shaped into the leaders of tomorrow at our nation's esteemed U.S. military academies. This fall, the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy will welcome some of the Third District's finest students, and I extend my congratulations and best wishes as these young people begin their appointments."
Congressman Womack continued, "We are also here to celebrate the Class of 2026 as they embark on a new chapter as commissioned officers. I am exceedingly proud of the sacrifice, discipline, and hard work that earned them both their diplomas and officer commissions. These men and women are exceptionally prepared to lead our military, and I have no doubt they will serve with distinction and excel in the years ahead."
2026 Academy Appointees
USMA
Weston Arnett of Greenwood
Casey Elliot of Springdale
Jack Hooe of Bentonville
Jacob McCrary of Garfield
Constantin Shatilenko of Rogers
Sullivan Shepard of Rogers
USNA
Vaughn Fields of Rogers
Hannah Hanson of Bentonville
Colt Hood of Fayetteville
William Stewart of Fayetteville
USAFA
Kenneth Dufault of Little Flock
William Neumann of Bentonville
Joseph Rouse of Fayetteville
Sydney Seymour of Bella Vista
Justus Thurlby of Bentonville
USMMA
Carter Muth of Rogers
Charles Quayle of Fayetteville
USAFA Preparatory School
Olivia Whitt of Fort Smith
Class of 2026 Academy Graduates
USMA
Ellery Doyna of Fayetteville
Luke Monk of Fort Smith
Sydney Rhuda of Bentonville
Joey Sta Romana of Centerton
Luke Welcher of Fayetteville
USNA
Dylan Talbot of Centerton
Noah Wilson of Springdale
USAFA
Juan Andrade of Rogers
Elise Bell of Harrison
Jace Sutulovich of Siloam Springs
Read more about the Class of 2026 HERE.