WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa said today that Emma Lauren Baller of Sioux City has received an appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo., for the 2016-2017 school year.
Baller is the daughter of Gretchen and Ryan Baller. Baller will graduate in May from Sioux City North High School. She has participated in marching band, symphonic winds, Northwest Iowa Honor Orchestra, honor choir, the math modeling competition team, dance team, competitive cheer and color guard. She is a member of the National Honor Society and serves as color guard captain. Baller also participates in running, archery and Tae Kwon Do, and is a lifeguard.
“Students work very hard to earn this kind of opportunity. Admission to the service academies is highly competitive and a great honor,” Grassley said. “I wish Emma well and thank her for her commitment to serve our nation.”
Baller was among the 41 Iowans Grassley nominated this year for appointments to the U.S. service academies. Upon receiving an appointment, the student then decides whether to attend the academy. Information about seeking nominations can be found on Grassley’s website.
For more than 200 years, these academies have educated and trained individuals to lead and command the U.S. armed forces.
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