ABERDEEN, S.D. – Aberdeen Central High School senior Ryan Fiechtner has been named U.S. Senator Mike Rounds’ top nominee to the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis.
Rounds this week announced his nominations for appointments to the nation’s service academies. Fiechtner, the son of Brad and Pam Fiechtner of Aberdeen, was selected as the Naval Academy Principal Nominee.
At Central, Fiechtner holds a 3.87 GPA and is a member of the National Honor Society, marching band and symphonic band. He also volunteers with Sleep in Heavenly Peace, a nonprofit that builds and delivers beds to children in need.
"I am deeply grateful to receive Senator Mike Rounds' principal nomination to the United States Naval Academy,” Fiechtner said in a press release from Rounds’ office. “It has been my dream to serve since my freshman year of high school. I'd like to thank my teachers, friends and family for their overwhelming support along the way. This opportunity has strengthened my resolve and commitment to the United States armed forces, where I seek to become a representative for myself, my family and my country."
Aberdeen Public School District officials recognized Fiechtner and celebrated his accomplishment at a gathering Friday morning at Central High School.
Rounds’ other top nominees are Nicholas Gray of Fort Pierre, U.S. Military Academy at West Point; Maya Lee of Dell Rapids, U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs; and Nicholas Hanson of Dakota Dunes, who received a fully qualified offer of appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy.
“It’s an honor to nominate our nation’s future military leaders to U.S. service academies,” Rounds said in the press release. “The U.S. service academies are among the most elite educational institutions in the world. After receiving a top-notch education, these South Dakotans will courageously serve our country as active-duty military members. We’re proud of Ryan, Nicholas G., Maya and Nicholas H. for their desire to answer the call of duty to serve our nation.”
For more information about service academy nominations, visit Rounds’ website.
About the Aberdeen Public School District
The Aberdeen Public School District provides a comprehensive educational program to approximately 4,200 students in grades K-12, with a mission of empowering all students to succeed in a changing world. Our students receive the knowledge and skills necessary to reach their potential in a global community through high expectations of academic achievement; diverse educational opportunities; and community involvement in a safe, supportive environment. Learn more at aberdeen.k12.sd.us.