For students or the parents of a middle school or high school student interested in obtaining a congressional recommendation to a U.S. Military Service Academy, the upcoming U.S. Service Academy Information Nights may have the information needed to successfully accomplish that goal.

The two events — one in Pierce County and one in Thurston County — are hosted by Rep. Denny Heck, 10th Congressional District. The information sessions are scheduled at Lacey City Hall, Council Chambers, 420 College St. SE, in Lacey March 26 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.; and at Lakewood City Hall, Council Chambers, 6000 Main St. SW in Lakewood March 27 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

The Service Academy Information Nights are quite popular in Heck’s district, which makes him proud, he said.

“We’ve got a ton of energetic, bright young people who are inspired by those serving our country,” Heck said. “It gives me great optimism when I see that kind of response from the next generation ... bestowing nominations to our nation’s service academies is something I look forward to every year.”

Each year, up to 10 youth are selected to apply. Students complete application packets that include test scores for various physical and scholastic requirements and go before a review board — to fill one vacancy. Although there is technically only one slot allotted for Heck’s office, some years up to six people have received recommendations, according to a representative from Heck’s office.

Representatives of the U.S. Military Academy Air Force Academy, Naval Academy, Merchant Marine Academy and Coast Guard Academy will be at the Service Academy Information Nights to answer questions and provide information.

The U.S. Coast Guard Academy is the only one of the five academies that does not require a congressional nomination; however, according to Heck’s website, he can write a recommendation letter there if requested.

Here are some of the requirements for applicants:

• Must live within the 10th District in order to apply for or receive a nomination from Heck. If you’re unsure, visit house.gov and enter your zip code or address.

• Must be between ages 17 and 23 as of July 1 of the admission year.

• Must be unmarried.

• Must submit complete application package to Heck’s district office, 420 College St. SE, Lacey, by Nov. 21.

• Applicants whose parents are stationed at a military base but maintain legal residence in another state, should apply to the congressional office from the district in their state of residence.

Additional information on applications and procedure will be provided at the Service Academy Information Nights.

For more information on congressional recommendations, contact Heck’s office at 360-459-8514 or visit dennyheck.house.gov.