Congressman Eric Sorensen Announces 2026 Service Academy Nominations

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) announced his nominations for outstanding students from Illinois' 17th Congressional District to the United States Service Academies as members of the Class of 2030. Service academy nominations are among a Member of Congress's most honorable responsibilities, opening the door for students to attend institutions that develop future leaders for the U.S. Armed Forces.

"These young men and women represent the very best of our community," said Congressman Sorensen. "They've shown strong leadership, academic excellence, and a deep commitment to service. It's an honor to nominate them to our nation's service academies, and I know they will make their families and our district proud."

2026 Service Academy Nominees:

• Alexander Williams (Rock Island, IL) - USNA, USMA, USAFA
• Ava Egel (Lynn Center, IL) - USAFA, USNA, USMA
• Braeden Bode (Port Byron, IL) - USMA, USAFA, USNA
• Johnny Thai (Peoria, IL) - USMA, USNA
• Demetrius Williams III (Colona, IL) - USMMA

Several nominees and their families were recognized at Congressman Sorensen's Service Academy Nominee Reception held on Saturday, January 31, 2026. Nominees Ava Egel, Demetrius Williams III, and Alexander Williams attended and are pictured in photos here. Nominees Johnny Thai and Braeden Bode were unable to attend and are not pictured.

As a member of Congress, Sorensen has the honor of nominating qualified students from Illinois 17th Congressional District for attendance at four service academies: the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, NY, the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD, the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, NY.

Final admissions decisions are made by the individual service academies.