Capitol Words a project of the Sunlight Foundation

Rep. Rick Crawford

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the nine students from Arkansas' First District whom I have the privilege to nominate to a U.S. service academy. All of these students have demonstrated exceptional skills in the classroom. Not only are these young men brilliant students, but they have also given much to their communities and deserve recognition.

Jordan Reed from Cabot is active in scouting, Future Farmers of America and Quiz Bowl.

Weston White from Blytheville was elected lieutenant governor at Boys State and is active in Future Business Leaders of America.

Sully Bigger from Walnut Ridge is on the track team and participates in cross-country racing.

Clayton Carpenter from West Memphis lettered in baseball and football where he was an academic All-Conference player.

Robert Raper from Colt is a cadet in the Naval Junior ROTC where he holds the position of cadet company commander.

Andrew Morgan from Mountain Home is a two-time All-Conference Academic selection in football.

Sean Gavan from Cabot is a member of the Air Force Junior ROTC where he is a lieutenant colonel and a logistics commander.

Jack Baltz from Pocahontas is class president and is an active church member.

Daniel Kyle Payne from Violet Hill was selected for the American Christian Honor Society and serves on the student council.

These young men are proof that America's Greatest Generation is not just a story of our Nation's past. With each new generation of Americans, our national spirit is renewed. It is an honor to represent young men like these who embody the hope and purpose that define America.