Special to the Enquirer 

Congressman Mo Brooks hosted a reception at Monte Sano State Park in honor of this year’s 5th Congressional District appointees to the U.S. Service Academies – including one from Hartselle.  

Sixteen young men and women – a record high from the district during Brooks’ time in Congress and the most from any district in the state – were selected to represent the Tennessee Valley in the Class of 2024 at the Air Force Academy, the Naval Academy and West Point. 

“Alabama’s 5th Congressional District is fortunate to claim 16 outstanding students who have received appointments to the Air Force Academy, the Naval Academy, and West Point,” Brooks said. “Congratulations to these exceptional scholars, athletes and leaders who have chosen to serve our country. I’m immensely proud of this high-achieving group of students and wish them well as they embark on this next phase of life. 

“I would be remiss,” Brooks added, “if I did not add a hearty congratulations to these appointees’ parents, siblings, teachers and everyone else who played a part in making these military academy appointees the exceptional young people they are.” 

Jackson Boyer, recent graduate of Hartselle High School, was among the 16 honored at the reception. He is the son of Todd and Leslie Boyer of Hartselle.