“I am honored to have nominated Bowe Barger to the U.S. Naval Academy, and I commend her on her hard work and dedication to her studies which earned her this distinguished appointment,” Ross said.  “The admissions process for our service academies is highly competitive.  Our academies seek not only those in peak physical condition, but also those who display natural leadership, high moral character, and a commitment to academics.  Bowe Barger clearly represents all of these characteristics, and I congratulate her and wish her all the best as she enters academy life.”

Barger is the daughter of Robert and Tammy Jo Barger of Okolona and will graduate from Arkadelphia High School later this year in the graduating class of 2007. Barger is a member of Arkadelphia High School’s National Honor Society, the Lady Badger Soccer Team, the Spanish Club and the French Club. Barger also volunteers her time with the Cone Foundation at Arkadelphia High School which provides monetary awards to non-profit organizations for community enhancement projects.

Each year, Ross has the opportunity to nominate Arkansas's most accomplished young men and women for an appointment to one of these academies. As some of the most selective institutions of higher education in the world, these academies offer young people a unique opportunity to obtain a first-class education and subsequently serve our country upon graduation as commissioned officers in the United States Military. For more information or to learn about the application process, please contact R.J. Lightsey in my Pine Bluff office at 1-800-223-2220, or visit my website at: www.house.gov/ross.

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