Columbus Ledger-Enquirer: Georgia Lawmakers Come Out for Military Academy Day
By Annie McCallum
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Isakson, Bishop and Westmoreland also mark Sept. 11 anniversary at event
Several Georgia lawmakers were in the Fort Benning area Saturday for Military Academy Day, where they also acknowledged the anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorists attacks.
Republican U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson, U.S. Rep. Sanford Bishop, D-Albany, and U.S. Rep. Lynn Westmoreland, R-Newnan, hosted the event at the National Infantry Museum.
The day is for students considering attending one of the country’s five military academies to gather information.
Isakson, Bishop and Westmoreland — who are all responsible for nominating students seeking an appointment to a service academy — said the day was especially meaningful because it marked the ninth anniversary of Sept. 11.
Bishop, who represents the 2nd Congressional District . . . said he was happy to be among the military’s next generation of leaders on the day of remembrance.
“Our military soldiers pay a price for freedom,” he said. “These young people are expressing an interest in serving our country.”
Many students throughout the area came to Military Academy Day where they had the opportunity to become familiar with the various service academies. Saturday’s event had about 300 participants and was available to students in eighth- through 12th-grades and their families.
Westmoreland, who represents the 3rd Congressional District . . . also said the day held special significance.
While students explored careers in the military, he said many people felt compelled to serve the country following the attacks.
“I think a lot of people in the military today wouldn’t be in the military if it wasn’t for 9/11,” he said, adding so many heard the call to service that day.
Isakson . . . said he was thrilled with the event’s turnout and it was meaningful seeing so many young people considering military careers on a day that’s marked in nation’s history books.
“I hope everyone will say a prayer today for the lives lost in 9/11,” he said.