We would like to advise local students and their families of an important opportunity.

Applications are being taken for nominations to U.S. Military Service Academies.

Each year, Ohio’s U.S. Sens. Rob Portman and Sherrod Brown, as well as U.S. Rep. Bill Johnson, nominate students for each of these academies, which represent the branches of the military.

Those interested in the academies, which are federal institutions for the undergraduate education and training of commissioned officers, can contact Brown, Portman and Johnson’s offices for more information. Completed application packets can be returned until Sept. 20 of this year.

In addition, there will be a seminar with more information on the academies at Shawnee State University in Portsmouth. This will take place in the Morris University Center, Room 214, with an Academy Open House from 5:30-6 p.m. and a presentation from 6-8 p.m.

We encourage all students who met the eligibility requirements in Lawrence County to look into this possibility for their future and, if it is right for them, to apply as soon as possible.