Press Release

Senator Gillibrand Announces 2012 Academy Nominations from New York City

Jan 27, 2012

Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced today her nominations of New Yorkers to the nation’s leading service institutions – the United States Air Force, Military, and Naval Academies.  

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.  

Senator Gillibrand said, “Our Service Academies are distinguished by a devotion to honor, courage and commitment. I am honored to nominate these young, talented New Yorkers who exemplify these core values. It is my hope that the accomplished nominees have the chance to live their dreams and serve in our country’s armed forces with distinction.”   

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

New York City

Gregory Watch (Flushing, Queens) United States Military Academy at West Point.

Patricia Ni (Forest Hills, Queens) United States Merchant Marine Academy.

Richard Araya (Ozone Park, Queens) United States Naval Academy.

Randy Valencia (Brooklyn) United States Military Academy at West Point.

Edward Tillinghast (Manhattan) United States Naval Academy.

James Brisotti (Manhattan) United States Naval Academy.

Emma McGrath (Manhattan) United States Naval Academy.