Press Release

Gillibrand Announces 2021 Service Academy Nominations From New York City

Jan 14, 2021

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, incoming Chair of the Senate Armed Services Personnel Subcommittee, today announced her nominations for candidates from New York City to three of the nation’s leading service institutions: the United States Air Force, Naval, and Merchant Marine Academies.

“It is my honor to nominate these talented young leaders to our nation’s service academies. These New Yorkers have demonstrated leadership and a strong desire to pursue a career of service to our nation, and they will go on to become the future leaders of our armed forces,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I look forward to their success as they continue to represent New York long into the future.”

A selection committee formed by Senator Gillibrand chose the nominees from a large group of qualified applicants. Decisions were based on criteria including academic record, leadership potential, and overall achievement. Final acceptance is determined solely by the service academies.

The United States service academies offer a first-class education as well as a chance for young people to serve our country upon graduation as commissioned officers in the United States Armed Services. This year, Senator Gillibrand nominated four candidates from New York City to the service academies.

Senator Gillibrand’s nominees are listed below by their hometown and academies:

  • Sayad Diambou (Bronx) – U.S. Naval Academy              
  • Gen Kawaguchi (Manhattan) – U.S. Air Force Academy
  • Alex Tembelis (Queens) – U.S. Air Force Academy
  • Phoebe Li (Brooklyn) – U.S. Merchant Marine Academy